Low Follow-Up After Behavioral ED Care - Takeaways - MDSpire
From the Journals

Low Follow-Up After Behavioral ED Care

Follow-up occurred after fewer than 15% of mental health ED visits and about 11% of substance use–related visits in Washington Medicaid claims.

  • By

  • Kathryn Wighton

  • May 5, 2026

  • 5 min

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  • 1

    Only 14% of mental health ED visits had primary care follow-up.

  • 2

    11% of substance use ED visits were followed by condition-concordant care.

  • 3

    Racial disparities exist in follow-up rates among Medicaid beneficiaries.

  • 4

    Higher comorbidity burden correlated with more follow-up.

  • 5

    Integrated managed care was introduced in Washington to enhance care coordination.

  • 6

    Study limitations include potential underestimation due to claims data.

  • 7

    Further outreach and coordination are needed to improve access and adherence.

Original Source(s)

Low Follow-Up After Behavioral ED Care

  • by Kathryn Wighton

  • May 5, 2026

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