Study finds combining mental health services with pediatric practices feasible, effective

According to a new study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences published in journal Pediatrics, suggests that combining behavioral and mental health programs for the children along with the pediatric practices is an effective and suitable option. It has been observed that the behavioral health treatment given in the pediatrician's office have improved the access to care. It helps in better participation from both sides the child and also their caregiver in treatment programs. The researchers found that integrating both the course helps to improve the completions by six times as compared to the single treatment. The lead author David Kolko, Ph.D., professor of psychiatry, psychology, pediatrics, and clinical and translational science in Pitt's School of Medicine explains, “Treating both physical and behavioral health in the office of the child's pediatrician is an achievable goal that provides many benefits to the child, caregiver and pediatrician.”