AMA to increase coverage and access for patients with many care needs

Because the delivery of health care is increasingly becoming more integrated to better serve patients with multiple care needs, the American Medical Association (AMA) today during its Annual meeting passed new policy that seeks to increase access to and coverage of integrated medical and behavioral health care services for patients.

"There is an increased recognition that the health of an individual includes both physical and behavioral components that should be treated holistically," said Mary Anne McCaffree, M.D. "Since a high prevalence of people with behavioral health disorders are seen by primary care physicians, it's imperative that we remove any barriers that impede patient access to integrated care services on the same day or in the same setting if they need it."