Document Type
Report
Publication Date
10-1-2008
Keywords
Cutler, Population Health and Health Policy
Abstract
Recognizing that our health care system lacks organization, integration, and coordination, the Maine Health Access Foundation (MeHAF) has adopted the promotion of patient- and family-centered care as a long-term funding priority. With the goals of encouraging patients to take an active role in their care and promoting integration of primary and specialty care with mental and behavioral health, dental care, and other services, MeHAF has funded several health care initiatives to improve the health of individuals and to improve the quality and costeffectiveness of health care.
The Maine Barriers to Integration Study is one of these initiatives. MeHAF funded the Muskie School to identify barriers to integration of behavioral and physical health services and potential solutions to overcoming these barriers. This paper reports on the first phase of the study, which included an extensive literature review; an analysis of different approaches and models to integration; and a review of integration initiatives in Maine, other states, and Canada. Results from interviews and focus groups with Maine stakeholder organizations are also included.
Funding Organization
The Maine Health Access Foundation Contract no. 2007CON-0010
Recommended Citation
Gale, J. A., & Lambert, D. (2008). Maine barriers to integration study: Environmental scan. Portland, ME: University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service.
