Behavioral health concerns often present as physical symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, irregular heartbeat, or disordered eating. When these occur, the first call likely is a primary care provider.
As mental health and substance use disorders have risen in the past few years, physicians have become key front-line responders in diagnosing issues and coordinating care. While doctors, particularly pediatricians, have screened patients’ behavioral health for many years, they now are more invested in caregiving.
“It’s no secret that we have a behavioral health crisis,” said Susan Sirota, M.D., a physician with Pedia Trust Pediatric Partners in suburban Chicagoland. “What you hear on the news is what we’re seeing in our clinics. Because the need for care is so great, we’re not just identifying the problem; we’re taking on more responsibility for the treatment itself.”
Rosecrance works closely with each client’s physician to ensure the best chance for lasting recovery. Information gleaned from conversations at each step of the journey help clinicians adapt treatment plans to individual needs. Once an individual is in a low-level of care, such as outpatient counseling or medication management, physicians can provide reinforcement for long-term recovery.
“It’s so important to have that extra set of eyes and ears,” said Maria Campobasso, Rosecrance Clinical Outreach Coordinator. “Physicians know the client’s history and any potential concerns that would be helpful to us. By working together, we can do what is best for their long-term wellbeing.”
In addition, Rosecrance provides behavioral health expertise and connections to resources in Chicagoland. Campobasso provides brief assessments to individuals recommended by physicians, and she is available as a clinical expert who can answer questions about patient circumstances. Once a person’s needs are identified, Campobasso can help form a treatment plan and be a bridge to services.
“We know that few individuals who have an identified need for services reach out for them,” Campobasso said. “My passion is to be a resource that physicians can rely on to help patients who may not otherwise seek it.”