How to Provide Medical Care to Psychiatrically Ill Patients at Metabolic Risk

Given the high rates of medical comorbidity, particularly cardiometabolic problems, among patients with serious psychiatric disorders, policymakers have asked whether these patients might achieve better health and receive higher-quality general medical care through integrated behavioral-health homes than via current practices. This first-of-its-kind, single-site study enrolled 447 patients with major psychiatric disorders and at least one cardiometabolic risk factor who were seen at a community mental-health center or referred by community providers.

Participants were randomized to receive care at an integrated behavioral-health home or usual care for 12 months. The integrated health home, staffed by a prescribing nurse and a nurse manager f…