Connecting Your Patients to Collaborative Care
As the primary care provider for your patients, you play a critical role in helping your patients access collaborative care for their behavioral health needs.
CMS guidelines require that the treating provider obtain and document patient consent for a Collaborative Care Model (CoCM) referral. But, the process of introducing patients to CoCM is about so much more than simply obtaining a signature. Primary care providers often function as a bridge - helping patients who might not otherwise participate in behavioral health treatment connect with a CoCM program.
Learn more about obtaining consent »
This means you can use the consent and referral process to not only obtain the required consent for CoCM, but also address patient concerns and potential barriers to engagement with your program.
Completing the program's assessments and measures helps your patients track their progress and monitor the effectiveness of CoCM interventions, providing valuable feedback to ensure the program is tailored to their individual needs. Below are some of the most common concerns and suggestions around how to navigate them with your patients.
Above all else, remember that the collaborative care model - like most other healthcare interventions - works best when patients are empowered to engage in their own care decisions. As their trusted primary care provider, you have the opportunity to set the stage for successful enrollment by intentionally engaging them in the process.
Helping Your Patients Understand CoCM
“I’ve never heard of collaborative care. What is it?”
Provider Response: It's really no different than having a team approach to your physical health, only this time we're focusing on both your body and your mental well-being. We'll work together with a mental health specialist to create a personalized care plan that addresses your needs and helps you feel your best overall. I've also got this brochure that explains it in more detail if you'd like to take a look.
"Is this the same as therapy?"
Provider Response: Collaborative care, or CoCM, is a little different than traditional therapy. For one thing, it is a short-term model. Most people participate in CoCM for about 6 months. CoCM does use many of the same tools and strategies that might be used in therapy, but in CoCM we have a whole team working to help you achieve health in all areas of your life. The collaborative care model is flexible, so you can get in touch with your care manager when you need them, even if you don’t have a scheduled appointment. Therapy is typically focused on just behavioral health, with one therapist working with you individually, usually for one hour per week.
"I'm not sure I'm comfortable talking about my mental health with someone other than you. It's kind of personal."
Provider Response: That's completely understandable. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, and sometimes having another perspective can be really helpful. Think of it like having a coach on your team - someone who can offer specific tools and strategies to boost your well-being alongside the support I provide. Your privacy is always our top priority, and we only share information with your consent. All CoCM team members are bound by the same privacy laws as I am as your primary care provider.
"What is this going to cost? I already have enough bills to worry about."
Provider Response: I hear you. Let's talk about your coverage. Similar to your regular doctor visits, your co-pays, co-insurance, and deductibles will apply. The main difference is that you'll be billed once per month for collaborative care, regardless of the number of times you connect with your care manager. Some of this fee covers non-face-to-face work they do on your behalf, like coordinating with me and developing your personalized plan. We can talk about your specific plan and compare it to the costs of traditional therapy or psychiatry services to see what makes the most sense for you.
"I don't know if this will actually help me. My situation is pretty unique."
Provider Response: Everyone's different, and that's why we'll tailor the program to your specific needs and goals. Collaborative care is a proven method supported by lots of research that shows it helps people like you feel better faster. We'll work together to define what success looks like for you and adjust the plan along the way to ensure it's effective. And remember, this doesn't replace any other care you might need - you can still access specialists or other services if you feel it's necessary.
Your specific phrasing will depend on the individual patient and situation. However, by offering clear, compassionate, and personalized answers to their questions and concerns, you can help patients feel more informed and comfortable about participating in collaborative care.
