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Independence encourages medical and behavioral health providers to work together

May 23, 2018

Improved communication between behavioral health providers and primary care physicians (PCP) is an important factor in promoting a cohesive plan of care for patients. During 2018, Independence and its behavioral health provider, Magellan Healthcare, Inc. (Magellan), an independent company, will explore potential opportunities to facilitate communication and collaboration between PCPs and behavioral health providers to achieve optimal outcomes for your patients.

While communication between PCPs and behavioral health providers is slowly improving, there is still a large percentage of both medical and behavioral health providers who do not communicate about patient care. Helpful questions PCPs should ask the behavioral health care provider include:

  • Has the patient been prescribed medication to manage behavioral health conditions? Is the patient compliant with medication management?
  • Are there any special considerations regarding medication interactions? Has the patient had any side effects from medications?
  • How does the patient's behavioral health influence medical complaints and response to care?
  • For patients with chronic illness, do they have increased symptoms or complaints during times of stress?
  • Some medications such as second-generation antipsychotics require metabolic monitoring.* For patients taking medications that require metabolic monitoring, how can you coordinate the appropriate tests are ordered and that the results are monitored?

    *Metabolic monitoring may be as simple as assessing weight, appetite, or vital signs; however, some medications require laboratory testing.

Please note that PCPs must obtain patient consent to exchange patients' personal health information and discuss their behavioral health care with a Magellan provider, and that certain conditions require the completion of a specific consent form. Therefore, please discuss with your patients the importance of sharing this information for their health and safety and coordination of care. When possible, provide your patients with an appropriate consent form they can sign, so they are informed what will be shared and can give their written consent.

To better facilitate care between PCPs and behavioral health providers, use the Clinician Collaboration Form,which should be completed and then sent electronically or by mail to the provider. For a copy of the Clinical Collaboration Form and other tools and resources, go to Independence NaviNet® Plan Central and select Health and Wellness under Administrative Tools & Resources. You can also visit the Worksheets, Forms, and Guides page of our website.

Magellan Healthcare, Inc. manages behavioral health and substance abuse benefits for most Independence members.

NaviNet is a registered trademark of NaviNet, Inc., an independent company.


This content was prepared for the Provider News Center and may not be reproduced in any way without the express written permission of Independence Blue Cross. Independence Blue Cross is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
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