Seattle-based digital primary care service provider 98point6 has launched an integrated behavioral health offering which gives its employers, health plans and health systems access to a single-stop virtual care solution. The company says that by treating behavioral health in connection with the primary care relationship, patients can achieve better outcomes and an overall improved quality of life.
- The company’s on-demand digital primary care service delivers personalized diagnosis, treatment and consultation to patients across the US.
- According to the company, a July 2020 KFF Tracking Poll found that 53% of US adults have struggled with mental health during COVID-19. So, 98point6 said, access to a single-stop virtual care solution ensures that the members and employees are fully supported on the path to mental health.
- 98point6 provides behavioral health care through a collaborative, multidisciplinary team of board-certified physicians, behavioral health coaches and licensed therapists. Members are provided with the appropriate level of care, including medication management, at their convenience.
- The company said that by providing a private and accessible entry point, it is setting out to reduce stigma and normalize behavioral health mindsets, which encourages individuals to seek help sooner.
- Sara Smucker Barnwell, PhD, licensed clinical psychologist and Clinical Director, Behavioral Health at 98point6, said: “Taking the first step toward mental well-being can be the hardest, but delaying care can lead to negative health outcomes and higher costs down the road. By integrating behavioral health with 24/7 access to primary care physicians, we’re removing the barriers to receiving mental health treatment, enabling earlier intervention that guides patients to the right level of treatment by the right provider.”