During the last 7 years the Island of Puerto Rico has gone through a dramatic change from fee for services to a managed care delivery system that had serious effect in Public Health. The investigation examines the impact that managed care has on the mental health services in the island of Puerto Rico, during the period of 2000-2001. Using an assessment approach, we explore, the following aspects: a) demographic varialbes of health care providers, b) quality of services as reported by providers, c) availability of services, and d) ethical aspects within the professionals who offer mental health services. With an exploratory, descriptive design, we will address the variables mentioned before. A questionnaire was administered to a sample of 150 mental health professionals that are care providers. The professional to be considered are psychiatrists, and clinical social workers who work for managed care organizations.
Learning Objectives: - Promote understanding of the implications of Managed Care Organizations in the delivery of Mental Health Services. - Promote comprehension of the health services in the public infrastructure.
Keywords: Managed Care, Mental Health
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.