Use of Simulation to Integrate Behavioral Health Into Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Programs

Identifying and treating acute and chronic behavioral health conditions is integral to primary care practice, yet primary care nurse practitioner (NP) training models do not meet the demand for integrated behavioral health practices. Simulation offers an effective pedagogical tool for integrating behavioral health training in primary care.

With support from federal funding and external consultants, new didactic and complementary simulation curricula in integrated behavioral health care were introduced in the primary care and psychiatric mental health NP programs at a school of nursing. Two rounds of this curricular innovation were implemented and evaluated across specialties.

Ninety-seven students participated in the training and reported enhanced behavioral-health assessment and hand-off skills, greater confidence in applying core content, and improved communication skills.

Thoughtfully designed simulation offers an important tool for developing integrated behavioral health competencies that will help prepare future primary care clinicians meet the needs of patients and communities. [.