Friday 24 July 17:15
- 18:45
Hall: 11 - Palazzina 3
Chair and Presenter:
Vines Robyn
Co-Chair:
Bray James
Division: Division 17: Professional Psychology
This symposium will discuss innovative models and methods of practice that psychologists have developed to provide integrated health care. Integrated health care addresses WHO initiatives for universal mental health care and psychologists have played key roles in designing and implementing these programs. Current research indicates massive hidden costs to society from mental and behavioural health problems, both economically and in terms of impact on health, well-being and relationships. In addition, people with mental health problems often have other chronic medical diseases that increase the burden of the disease and decrease the success in treating them. Evidence-based biopsychosocial approaches, including psychological and lifestyle-factor interventions, are available that empower people and ensure more positive health outcomes. Many mental health conditions can now be treated at relatively low cost, yet treatment coverage remains very low. Huge cost savings can be made in medical and pharmaceutical costs, if psychological treatments are provided in team-based primary and integrated health care settings. This symposium will discuss programs and innovative methods that increase access to care.
