Enhancing the care of HIV/AIDS patients through collaboration between mental health and case management services

The collaboration of mental health and case management services improves the care of patients who have HIV/AIDS. An enhanced model of care was developed within a primary medical care clinic for patients with HIV/AIDS. Case management needs such as safe and consistent housing, access to food programs, assistance with transportation, and access to mental health and substance abuse services are assessed. Patients with needs for mental health and substance abuse services are referred directly by the case manager to the behavioral professionals within the clinic. The behavioral health professionals offer services such as emergency psychiatric evaluations and medication management, psychological evaluations, and individuals, couples and family therapy, as well as addressing areas of risk reduction and adherence to treatment. Reciprocal communication between patient, case manager, behavioral health professional, and medical provider improves patient care.