Measurement of Common Mental Health Conditions in VHA Co-located, Collaborative Care

The VA has integrated psychologists and other licensed mental health providers, known collectively as co-located collaborative care (CCC) providers, into patients' primary care medical homes to improve mental health services for veterans. However, it is unclear if CCC providers are routinely using mental health measures as part of evidence-based, coordinated care. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and predictors of CCC provider utilization of brief, validated measures. A retrospective review of VA electronic medical records from 8403 veterans diagnosed with depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, or anxiety disorder was conducted. Results indicated that 23 % of the sample had a screening or brief symptom measure documented by a CCC provider. Likelihood of measurement was predicted by primary diagnosis, length of care episode, CCC provider credential, and clinic setting. Future research should address factors impacting measurement practices of CCC providers in order to develop implementation strategies for advancing measurement-based mental health care.