Report Findings Reveal Savings Through Integration of Behavioral and Physical Health

Milliman, Inc., the global consulting and actuarial firm, recently released its report on the “Economic impact of Integrated Medical-Behavioral Healthcare.” This information comes at a crucial time in the policymaking discussions about how to improve health while reducing health care spending through greater integration of care including through patient centered medical homes and accountable care organizations.

Key findings in the report reveal that:

  • Only 14 percent of people with insurance are receiving treatment for mental health or substance use disorders, but they account for more than 30 percent of total health care spending. The total spending for those with behavioral health issues is estimated to be $525 billion annually; total health care spending is estimated to be $1.7 trillion annually.
  • The additional health care costs incurred by peole with behavioral co-morbidities were estimated to be $293 billion in 2012.
  • Effective integration of medical and behavioral care could save $26-$48 billion annually in general health care costs.
  • Most of the projected reduced spending is associated with facility and emergency room expenditures in hospital facilities.

To read the full report and learn more about the findings, click here.

 

 
 

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