Mental Health and Chronic Medical Conditions: The Impact on Healthcare and the Need for Support

The ongoing pandemic has brought mental health care and services into the spotlight. With more attention being given to this area, it has become increasingly clear how many individuals suffer from mental health disorders alongside other chronic medical conditions. A study revealed that 36.6% of people with mental health disorders also have conditions such as high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes. Additionally, depression is particularly common among patients with Parkinson’s disease, affecting over 50% of them.

The impact of mental health on the healthcare system is significant. Patients who are grappling with both medical and mental health issues face challenges in managing their care, resulting in increased costs and strain on resources. For instance, those with major depression incur 50-100% greater medical costs compared to those without depression. This places a significant burden on healthcare providers and contributes to higher readmission rates among this population.

Primary care physicians (PCPs) are often overwhelmed by the complex needs of patients with mental health and medical comorbidities. To address this growing challenge, PCPs are utilizing various tools to provide support and streamline care delivery. However, there is a recognized need for further support and resources to assist healthcare providers in managing the multifaceted needs of their patients effectively.

At Wolters Kluwer, we are committed to supporting clinicians in addressing the evolving landscape of mental health care. By developing innovative solutions and providing comprehensive resources, we aim to empower healthcare providers in delivering high-quality care to patients with mental health and medical conditions.