General hospital psychiatry and the new behavioral health care delivery system

Mental health care delivery has undergone substantial changes in recent years. This article reviews the evolution of managed care in the mental health care field and outlines managed behavioral health care techniques used in providing access to high-quality, cost-effective care. The expansion of general hospital psychiatry over the last 25 years is also reviewed. Current strengths of general hospital psychiatry which make it well positioned for an expanded role in behavioral health care delivery are examined. Recommendations are made for further improvements in the clinical, administrative, and financial aspects of general hospital psychiatry care delivery to prepare it for the integrated behavioral health care systems of tomorrow.