Behavioral healthcare is a rapidly evolving field, facing unique challenges in its efforts to meet increasing demand and deliver effective, patient-centered care. This blog addresses these challenges, particularly as they relate to programs under the National Association of Therapeutic Schools and Programs (NATSAP), the National Association of Addiction Treatment Providers (NAATP), and the Outdoor Behavioral Healthcare (OBH) Council. We will explore potential solutions to align program and patient values, prepare for the advent of value-based care, and enhance the quality of services through data collection, collaboration, and proactive field transformation.
The Current State of Behavioral Healthcare
Behavioral health services are under tremendous pressure to meet escalating demand, a burden made heavier by a systemic lack of understanding and measurement of care effectiveness. More Intensive Outpatient Programs (IOPs) and venture capitalists are entering the landscape, contributing to this pressure. This increasing demand and the field’s struggle to fulfill it emphasize the need for significant change. A proactive approach to this transformation will undoubtedly result in an field more equipped to cater to mental health and substance use conditions. Are you seeing similar trends in your area of work?
Aligning Program Operations with Patient Values
Transactional healthcare often compromises on quality care, respect, continuity of care, holistic approach, and support, which are paramount values for patients. True holistic care extends beyond just yoga and organic food; it is about providing comprehensive care, addressing every aspect of a patient’s health. Programs like the Pine River Institute (PRI) and Legacy Treatment Center are successfully aligning their values with patient needs, showing us that patient-centric models are not just achievable but also significantly beneficial. For further insight into the patient-centric approach, consider these resources:
https://innovation.cms.gov/key-concept/person-centered-care
https://www.healthaffairs.org/content/forefront/patient-centered-care-means-and-get-there
The Future of Behavioral Healthcare: Value-Based Care
In the future, behavioral health programs need to align with healthcare systems and prepare for the transition to value-based care. The key lies in data collection, collaboration with all care stake-holders, outcome measurement, and research. These parameters will shape the understanding of care effectiveness, guide decision-making, and refuel the passion. However, moving toward value-based care also means inviting scrutiny from payers and exposing outcomes to more stakeholders, thus necessitating strong partnerships and transparency. To understand value-based care better, here’s a helpful guide:
https://www.isc.hbs.edu/health-care/value-based-health-care/key-concepts/Pages/default.aspx
Harnessing Data and Collaboration
Data collection is not just about fulfilling an administrative task; it’s about informing decision-making with real, meaningful outcomes. Personalized care can only be achieved by understanding each patient’s unique needs, and this understanding is made more efficient through data collection. Collaboration with all stake-holders in the patients continuum of care and a commitment to ongoing research can further enrich these insights. The age of intelligence is upon us, and it encourages continuous learning and the constant pursuit of improvement, it is our responsibility to usher in the benefits this age will have for our programs and more importantly to the lives we serve. Are there particular client data tracking sources or collaboration models you find most effective?
Your Role in Shaping the Future
Implementing these changes requires each of us to be champions for our organizations and for the future of behavioral healthcare. Collecting outcomes data, starting conversations with payers about performance-based reimbursements, fostering partnerships, and seeking continuous improvement are all critical steps in this journey. As healthcare providers, your role could involve championing these efforts within your organization or advocating for policy changes to support this transformation. Policymakers can facilitate the shift by working towards frameworks that incentivize patient-centered and value-based care. As patients, your feedback and active participation in your care can help shape these practices. It starts with asking the right questions and taking the initiative to shape the future of the field. What questions are you asking, and what questions should we be asking?
Proactivity in Shaping the Field’s Future
A shift in the behavioral healthcare field is crucial and imminent. It is essential to meet the growing demand for services, to effectively track outcomes, and to transition seamlessly into a value-based care system. Ongoing collaboration and research with field experts can significantly enhance the care provided. As we prepare for this change, it is essential to consider our vision for the field’s potential evolution and improvement and identify key takeaways that resonate most with us.
As we look towards the future of behavioral healthcare, it is clear that change is inevitable. The power to shape this future lies within us. By embracing change, harnessing the potential of data, and fostering strong collaborations, we can ensure the journey towards a brighter future is in reach. Let’s take that first step, together. What step will you be taking towards this brighter future?
Share your thoughts, experiences, and ideas in the comments section below. Let’s start a conversation that could potentially shape the future of behavioral healthcare. Together, we can make a difference.
Authors Derek Daley & Jayte Boehler
