Atlanta-based Alliance Spine and Pain Centers has implemented a regular behavioral health screening for all of its patients using MHT's SmarTest platform.
The test helps physicians to address comorbidities between chronic pain and mental health concerns, according to an April 22 press release.
SmarTest allows Alliance and its physicians to set certain parameters based on appointment details, past assessment results and more. Through the MHT integration, the entire mental health screening is automated, saving physicians time.
When SmarTest identifies patients who indicate mental health concerns, patients are asked if they would like to speak with a clinician at behavioral health provider LifeStance Health, an MHT partner. SmarTest then sends the patient referral to LifeStance instantly.
Since Alliance Spine implemented the platform on Feb. 25, it has tested 8,002 patients, and 21% were flagged for mental health concerns. Of those patients, 32% said they would like to be referred to LifeStance.
Other orthopedic and spine practices, including Philadelphia-based Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, have also integrated mental health services into routine care.