UPMC Model Improves IBD, Behavioral Health Care and Outcomes

Updated Feb. 1, 2019

Pittsburgh — The University of Pittsburgh⁢ Medical⁣ center (UPMC) is using its Specialty Medical Home ‌(SMH) model to transform care for patients ⁢managing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)⁤ alongside behavioral health conditions. The approach delivers integrated, patient-centered support through a‍ team-based system.

the UPMC Center for High-Value Health ⁢Care spearheaded the initiative, backed by a Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) grant. The integrated ⁢model coordinates ‍medical, nutritional, and ⁣behavioral health services to address the multifaceted challenges of IBD.

Dr. Eva svigethy, a gastropsychiatrist and clinical lead within ‌the UPMC IBD⁢ Medical Home, emphasized the importance‍ of integrating behavioral health care. Svigethy said this approach reduces stigma, encourages patient involvement,⁤ and empowers individuals to actively⁢ manage their chronic illness.

Dr. Benjamin Cohen, ‍co-section head‍ and clinical director for IBD at the‍ cleveland Clinic, participated as a co-investigator in the PCORI-funded study. Cohen noted the increasing complexity of IBD treatments ⁣and limited access to gastroenterology visits as key ‌reasons for adopting the multidisciplinary SMH model. He added that the model enhances care continuity, promotes shared decision-making, and improves quality of life by addressing the connection between brain and gut health.

​ “Integrating behavioral health‍ care reduces stigma, promotes patient engagement, ⁤and empowers individuals to become active ⁣participants in managing their chronic illness,” Eva⁣ Svigethy, MD, PhD,‌ UPMC IBD Medical Home said.

What’s next

UPMC ⁤will continue to evaluate‍ and refine the‍ SMH model to further improve outcomes for patients with IBD‍ and behavioral health⁢ conditions.