This report examines the need to provide more integrated physical and behavioral health care for Medicaid beneficiaries and explores best practices around the country for integrating physical and behavioral health services and reducing avoidable high-cost services.  

From the report:

The Center for Health Care Strategies was commissioned by the United Hospital Fund to identify best practices for organizing, financing, and delivering behavioral health services for managed care beneficiaries in New York State with serious and persistent mental illness (SPMI). Based on a literature review, interviews, and expert feedback, it seems clear that integrated management of physical and mental health services for SSI beneficiaries with SPMI must be introduced in order to achieve better outcomes at a more reasonable cost. With necessary beneficiary protections as well as strong purchasing requirements and oversight by the state, full-scale integration of both services into one capitated care management organization would be the optimal solution.

Full report: http://www.uhfnyc.org/assets/619

Medicaid Institute at the United Hospital Fund & The Center for Health Care Strategies. (2009). Providing behavioral health services to Medicaid managed care enrollees: options for improving the organization and delivery of services. Bella, M., Somers, S. A. & Llanos, K.