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BULLSEYE News 9June 10, 2016
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hEAlTh, from page 8 seeking care if [someone has] any be- no difference in how it is treated in a satisfied with the BHOP experience and
“We are there to address the concerns havioral health concerns with either a patient’s electronic health record,” Maj. 95.3 percent stated they would probably
medical or lifestyle component,” said Najera said. or definitely recommend BHOP to a
that would have otherwise been brought Maj. Najera. “Everyone can consider at friend or family member.
to the primary care manager,” said Maj. least one BHOP encounter appropriate, BHOP offers two types of services
Elizabeth Najera, chief of the Behavioral while not everyone may require a second and patients will either see Internal Be- Patients who received care through
Health Optimization Program, Air Force visit.” BHOP consultations typically havioral Health Consultants, known as BHOP were asked if they would have
Medical Operations Agency. do not require more than four visits. A IBHCs, or Behavioral Health Care Facili- sought behavioral health services if
BHOP appointment lasts approximately tators, known as BHCFs. IBHCs include BHOP had not been available. Of those
For instance, when a patient suffering 25 minutes and patients leave with some both psychologists and social workers surveyed, 30 percent reported they would
severe headaches sees a primary care form of same-day intervention. Patients who provide focused assessments and not have sought any care if not for BHOP.
manager, it is determined whether the are triaged to ensure they get the appro- recommendations to help primary care
patient needs to be referred to neurol- priate resources and providers determine providers with decisions about patients’ Those with behavioral health concerns
ogy or requires additional examination what level of care is needed. behavioral health concerns. BHCFs are are encouraged to speak to their primary
from primary care. BHOP visits func- nurses who work directly with patients care provider. BHOP emphasizes that
tion in the same manner and patients BHOP helps to address a wide range who have been prescribed psychotropic seeking help is a sign of strength and
are screened to help identify the right of health related behaviors which can medications by their primary care pro- prevention is key. For those in need of
level of care. worsen medical conditions, including vider for depression, anxiety or post- behavioral health care, seeking care
diabetes, chronic pain, sleep problems, traumatic stress disorder. could help prevent a negative life impact.
According to Maj. Najera, only one and hypertension.
out of 10 patients seen requires referral to The goal of BHOP is to help patients Any individuals experiencing esca-
specialty care. Mild depression, anxiety Another benefit of BHOP is the ease and providers reach desired and real- lated behavioral health issues including
or grief may not require specialty mental of use. Half of all scheduled visits are istic behavioral health outcomes. This thoughts of harming themselves should
health services. While specialty care is same-day appointments. BHOP seeks includes improving quality of life or go to the nearest hospital emergency
beneficial when that is the appropriate to address a large patient volume with returning to a level of functioning closer room and seek help immediately.
level of care, it may not be necessary for same-day care. According to Maj. Na- to a patient’s goal. Some patients may
a normal process like bereavement. Even jera, the goal is to address patient needs walk away learning to manage chronic BHOP is available at 72 of the 76 Air
if a patient visit warrants a specialty care as they arise rather than having patients conditions, while having improved day- Force military treatment facilities. The
referral, time required for specialty care wait. to-day functioning. program is open to all military benefi-
is reduced by BHOP intervention. ciaries and walk-ins are accepted. BHOP
“[A BHOP visit] is considered a pri- In a 2015 survey of 631 patients, 89.5 does not require a referral. To schedule
“BHOP is an excellent first step in mary care appointment and there is percent reported being very or extremely a BHOP appointment, beneficiaries are
advised to call the appointment line.
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