We frequently hear from primary care and other providers who are considering referring patients to our Collaborative Care program. They have questions like, “How does it work?”, “Who should I refer?”, “What am I responsible for in the process?”, and “How do I submit the referral?”
With the Collaborative Care Model (CoCM), a lot happens behind the scenes, but for patients and their referring providers, the experience should feel simple, supportive, and seamless. And it all starts with a referral.
Complexity creates hesitation; simplicity builds confidence
Like your patients, you need to know what to expect when you make a referral. The bottom line is that Collaborative Care is designed to extend, not disrupt, your existing care plan. You stay at the center, supported by the Concert Health behavioral health team, working in close coordination with you.
When you refer a patient to Concert Health, our team reaches out within 1-2 business days. The patient is scheduled for the first of a series of live sessions (video or phone) with their Collaborative Care Clinician (a licensed, master’s-level behavioral health provider). A Psychiatric Consultant (a board-certified psychiatrist or behavioral health specialized advanced practice nurse) also reviews the case, providing diagnostic input and treatment recommendations, including medication guidance when appropriate.
You’ll see all notes and recommendations in the chart and continue to lead the patient’s care plan.
When in doubt, refer
We often get asked, “What types of patients should I refer to Collaborative Care?” Our short answer:
Refer any patient who shows signs or symptoms of a behavioral health need.
(Exception: Patients under age 6 or those experiencing an acute crisis that in your judgment requires immediate intervention like emergency or inpatient care.)
The Collaborative Care Model is evidence-based and highly effective in treating common behavioral health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and suicidal ideation. Growing evidence also supports its use in managing bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), eating disorders, substance use disorders, and other complex presentations—especially when integrated within a trusted primary care relationship.
Even concerns like chronic sleep issues, irritability, or poor treatment adherence may reflect underlying behavioral health needs. If something feels off, referring to Collaborative Care is a proactive, low-risk step.
When it’s not the right fit
In rare cases, a patient may not be an ideal fit for CoCM. For example, those with severe psychosis, developmental conditions, or advanced neurocognitive conditions. In those instances, our team provides diagnostic clarity and shares tailored next-step recommendations (e.g., community resources or subspecialty referrals) with the provider.
Collaborative Care isn’t always the destination, but it can be the first meaningful step forward.
Easier referrals at every level
Whether you’re an individual provider or part of a large system, there are simple ways to support behavioral health referrals to Collaborative Care.
At the system level, embedding CoCM into EHR workflows makes referrals automatic, not burdensome. Our implementation and technology teams partner with health systems to create targeted best-practice prompts and referral flows (e.g., triggering referrals based on PHQ-9 score) that map to any of over a dozen typical provider workflows. This helps to reduce friction without adding to alert fatigue.
At the visit level, a simple introduction can go a long way. Try something like:
“I’d like to connect you with a member of my care team—a behavioral health provider from Concert Health—who can check in regularly and support you with some of the things we discussed today.”
And if you’re unsure about a referral or looking for help in the process, reach out. We’re here to help.