The utility of a caseload registry: perceptions of behavioral health clinicians working in an integrated primary care and mental health program.

Objectives: This study evaluated the perceived benefits and limitations of a Web-based clinical support tool for behavioral health clinicians serving patients in an integrated primary care and mental health program in Washington State community health centers.

Methods: We surveyed 71 clinicians who utilize a Web-based clinical support tool ("the caseload registry") in treating patients. Follow-up interviews were scheduled with a subset (n=32) of respondents. Comments made during these interviews were analyzed using qualitative methods.

Results: Survey responses were favorable on 4 of 7 questions regarding specific benefits of the caseload registry. Notably, clinicians agreed that the caseload registry helps track patients and their clinical progress. Clinicians also agreed that the caseload registry adds an additional documentation burden to their work duties. The most common positive themes identified during follow-up interviews were that the registry is useful and improves care. The most common critical themes identified were that the tool is burdensome and sometimes does not encompass important elements of care.

Conclusions: Behavioral health clinicians working in an integrated primary care and mental health program report that use of a caseload registry adds value and improves care. They express that it helps provide more comprehensive care and tracks patient progress.