Behavioral health financing has long been a challenge for organizations implementing behavioral health integration (BHI) in many regions, specifically in California due to complexities with health plans carving out behavioral health coverage (among other issues). In this presentation, we will present findings from a series of California interviews with provider organizations, health plans and other stakeholders. Interviewers were asked about current practices, challenges, workarounds and solutions they would recommend improving the efficiency of BHI payment with an eye toward sparking implementation and program sustainability. Our team will highlight interview themes and opportunities for statewide alignment between provider organizations that could improve patient care, improve value, provide workforce support as well as provide value-based care. .
Mary Nickel-Nguy, Senior Manager, Behavioral Health Integration, Purchaser Business Group on Health / California Quality Collaborative Mary Nickel-Nguy DSW, LCSW