Issue link: https://beckershealthcare.uberflip.com/i/1522996
27 EXECUTIVE BRIEFING Workforce changes and telehealth are key to solving the behavioral health crisis As the behavioral health workforce ages, the landscape of behavioral health providers in the U.S. is shifting away from MD- and DO-credentialed psychiatrists to psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners. "These specialized nurse practitioners have the ability to do the work of psychiatrists," Dr. Horst said. "We have created opportunity sets and leadership positions for these individuals at TeamHealth. Thanks to our behavioral health culture, we are becoming the employer of choice." TeamHealth is also working diligently with health system partners to evaluate and update their bylaws so psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners can take on a much more visible care role on the front end. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, TeamHealth nurse practitioners deliver a considerable amount of mental health care and treatment. Technology solutions like telehealth need to be the focal point in emergency rooms, inpatient floors and outpatient care settings. Health systems must create the right environment and connections with technology. This involves back-end technology and getting iPads in front of patients. "We can use technology to influence care in a positive way," Dr. Horst said. "Historically, it was very difficult for mental health patients to get to behavioral health clinics. They had to get in their car or find other t ransportation t o get to an appointment. Now it's much more seamless." A culture of behavioral health + better outcomes for all requires commitment from the top. TeamHealth's CEO has created a culture of behavioral health. The same is true at TeamHealth's most successful partner health systems. "If you look at where we are most successful, you find an engaged C-suite that knows what it needs to do and why," Dr. Horst said. "It's all about the culture at the top and cascading that throughout the organization. Once you get to the other side and create a holistic approach to behavioral health, the cost savings are significant. Organizations reduce boarding in the ED, improve patient throughput, decrease patient bounce-backs and experience fewer security issues."