What is it about?
FLOW (not an acronym) is an algorithm-based program developed to address problems with mental health access by identifying recovered or stable mental health patients who can appropriately have their care transferred to primary care. Transferring these patients creates better access for new mental health patients without creating access problems in primary care. This mixed-methods case study describes the factors that contributed to success or struggles in implementing FLOW.
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Why is it important?
Problems with mental health access affect many health care systems. FLOW helps ensure that recovered or stabilized patients are transitioned from specialty mental health services to primary care thus increasing access for new patients needing mental health care.
Perspectives
In this study and in previous studies, sites have varied widely in their ability to successfully implement FLOW. This study found that shared decision-making, selection of the internal facilitator (the site-specific champion), staff role definition in implementing FLOW, as well as leadership and organizational support are key elements in implementing the FLOW program and in fostering appropriate transitions from mental health care.
Tracey Smith
Baylor College of Medicine
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: An external facilitation case study analysis of an implementation trial of FLOW: A program for improving the transition of patients with mental health disorders back to primary care., Psychological Services, August 2024, American Psychological Association (APA),
DOI: 10.1037/ser0000898.
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