Integration of mental health and medical records: practices and opinions of behavioral scientists.

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: This study provides information from a national sample of behavioral scientists about their practices and opinions about placement of mental health notes in the general medical record. METHODS: Using a mailed survey, behavioral scientists in US family practice residencies responded to questions about the location of mental health notes, the rationale for placement of notes, and opinions about integration of mental health notes into general medical records. RESULTS: The majority (71.8%) of behavioral scientists record mental health notes in the main body of the patient's medical chart, integrated with physician notes. Most respondents favor an integrated record to increase collaboration with medical providers. A variety of methods are used to minimize the chance of violating patient confidentiality. CONCLUSIONS: Although a majority of behavioral scientists integrate mental health notes in the medical chart and favor the practice of doing so, there is no consensus about this practice as reflected by divergent views and record-keeping methods.