Behavioral Health Practices in the Midst of Black Box Warnings and Mental Health Reform

Abstract

A standard guide was readministered to 42 primary care pediatricians after community interventions to assess changes in their behavioral health practices. Among the outcome findings: increased screening of young children (6 months to 5 years); attention deficit hyperactivity disorder continued to be the most frequent diagnosis, with a high level of diagnostic comfort and use of stimulants; decreased comfort in the diagnosis and treatment of depression, with a significant decline in use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors; nearly all continued to offer nonmedication, behavioral health treatment; and a significant increase in use of social workers for community referrals. Structured interventions had limited influence on the process of change. Black box warnings exerted a powerful effect on prescribing practices. Systemic changes involving financial incentives, increased access to mental health providers, practice guidelines, and technology for continuing education may offer possibilities for changing practice patterns.

Keywords

children behavioral health problems primary care pediatricians

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