Date of Award
8-17-2019
Document Type
Masters Project
Abstract
This comprehensive literature review presents findings associated with the need for more mental health support in rural Alberta. Integrated care with a behavioral health consultant (BHC) presents as a possible solution. Peer-reviewed literature indicates that rural residents are at a higher risk of suicide, substance abuse, depression, and other serious mental health concerns. They are often at a disadvantage when trying to access mental health support, and over 40% of patients with mental health needs will first seek treatment in a primary care setting. Positive mental health and positive health care outcomes are strongly linked to an individual’s total health, and a contributing factor to mental health concerns is the overwhelming number of people who have been diagnosed with a chronic disease. Integrated care with a BHC could help support both primary care providers and their patients by combining the professional competencies of mental health and primary care providers
Recommended Citation
Hesterman, Samantha J., "Addressing the health needs of patients diagnosed with a chronic disease in a rural Alberta, Canada primary care setting" (2019). Counseling . 54.
https://ualaska.researchcommons.org/uaf_grad_counseling/54
Handle
http://hdl.handle.net/11122/10960