To assess the rates of condition-concordant primary care follow-up within 30 days after emergency department visits for mental health conditions and substance use disorders among Washington Medicaid beneficiaries.
Key Findings:
Less than 15% of ED visits for mental health conditions had follow-up care within 30 days (14% specifically).
Approximately 11% of ED visits for substance use disorders had follow-up care (11% specifically).
Interpretation:
Despite Washington's integrated managed care model aimed at improving behavioral health and primary care coordination, follow-up rates remain low, indicating persistent challenges in continuity of care.
Limitations:
Findings may not be generalizable beyond Washington's Medicaid program.
Claims data may underestimate follow-up if mental health issues were addressed without coding.
Follow-up was measured from ED visits rather than hospital discharge, potentially missing follow-up opportunities.
The study only assessed primary care follow-up, not specialty behavioral health or addiction services.
Conclusion:
Condition-concordant primary care follow-up after ED visits for mental health and substance use disorders is infrequent, suggesting a need for tailored care coordination to improve access.
