The current health system segregates mental health and substance use disorders (MH/SUD) from physical health treatment as if the head had no connection with the body, i.e. “headless healthcare.” Such an approach is associated with 70% of MH/SUD patients receiving no MH/SUD treatment, with poor physical and MH/SUD clinical outcomes in the 30% who are treated (primarily by non-mental health providers), and with high healthcare and disability costs. 

This presentation will define an “out of the box” reformulation of the way that case management is performed and provided vis-à-vis physical healthcare and will review the evidence that integrated case management improves clinical outcomes, and thereby health-related costs in patients/members/employees with MH/SUDs. Its primary message is that case management for the mind cannot be separated from the body if improved clinical outcomes, reduced impairment, and lower health-related costs are desired. Following the presentation, time is set aside for questions and audience discussion. 

1. Describe the influence that MH/SUDs have on physical health and outcomes.
2. Identify characteristics necessary for care integration to occur.
3. Initiate the process of reorganizing care management activities so that integrated care support can occur.