Author: Christina Mulkey, DNP, AGNP-C
In the wake of an escalating opioid use disorder (OUD) crisis, Geriatric and Family Medicine Associates (GFMA) has made strides towards integrating primary care and behavioral health services, becoming an international model for addressing the issue. Adding an exciting notch to GFMAs accomplishments, Dr. Christina Mulkey has been invited to speak at the prestigious 2023 International Nursing Research Congress in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Dr. Mulkey, a stalwart of integrated healthcare, will champion the integration of primary care and behavioral health. Her participation in such an esteemed international platform signifies recognition of GFMA's groundbreaking model and its potential to reshape global healthcare strategies. In advocating for this holistic approach, Dr. Mulkey is not only representing GFMA's success, but also inspiring healthcare providers worldwide to prioritize a patient-centric, integrated approach to combat the OUD crisis effectively.
Let's face it: the statistics around opioid use are alarming. In 2019, over 70% of the 70,630 drug overdose deaths were opioid-related. Moreover, the pandemic has left its mark, with drug-related overdose deaths surging by 30% in 2020. These figures are compelling healthcare providers to rethink their strategies, moving away from the widespread prescribing of opioids and embracing alternative, nonpharmacological pain management methods.
At GFMA, the focus is on an integrated approach to care that addresses both physical and mental health needs. This strategy is especially crucial since adults with behavioral health disorders like anxiety and depression are twice as likely to use opioids for long-term for pain management. By integrating behavioral health into primary care, GFMA is effectively addressing the challenges posed by OUD.
Despite the success of this integrated care model, many Primary Care Providers (PCPs) have yet to adopt it, often due to resource constraints, inadequate training, or simply a lack of awareness. GFMA's model, however, is proving that with the right approach, it's possible to improve patient outcomes, reduce the risk of long-term opioid dependency, and enhance the quality of life for those grappling with behavioral health disorders and chronic pain.
GFMA's approach goes beyond the clinic, creating bridges with community resources such as human services, sober living, judicial system, and rehab facilities. This interconnected network promotes a bidirectional referral system, making patient access to essential services easier and more efficient. A cornerstone of GFMA's approach is the implementation of a dual visit process. Here, both primary care and behavioral health providers meet with the patient, ensuring a unified treatment plan. The behavioral health provider's advocacy and precise communication of symptoms enable the PCP to choose the appropriate medication for symptom management.
This integrated approach fosters a robust information-sharing culture, with Behavioral Health Providers (BHPs) sharing documentation with PCPs. This shared knowledge base allows for a unified plan of care and treatment, discussed among the patient, PCP, and BHP during visits.
