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The following is a summary of “Assessment of mental and physical health outcomes over time in an integrated care setting,” published in the May 2025 issue of BMC Primary Care by Bhatta et al. 

Integrated care aimed to reduce fragmentation in health services and was associated with improved care experiences, lower costs, and better outcomes.  

Researchers conducted a retrospective study to assess changes in mental and physical health outcomes among individuals with mental health challenges treated in an integrated care setting.  

They evaluated changes in anxiety, depression, systolic blood pressure, and glycated hemoglobin over time. Measurements included the GAD-7, PHQ-9, systolic blood pressure, and glycated hemoglobin. Data were recorded from baseline through 3 follow-up assessments between October 1, 2018, and December 31, 2023.  

The results showed that at baseline, 239 participants completed mental health measures, 344 provided systolic blood pressure readings, and 164 reported glycated hemoglobin levels. Generalized Estimating Equations analysis indicated reductions in GAD-7 scores (-1.28 [95% CI, -1.71 to -0.85]) and PHQ-9 scores (-1.37 [95% CI, -1.73 to -0.92]) over time. Systolic blood pressure (-0.004 [95% CI, -1.34 to 1.35]) and glycated hemoglobin (0.04 [95% CI, -0.07 to 0.15]) remained stable.  

Investigators concluded that integrated care treatment resulted in improved depression and anxiety symptoms while maintaining stable physical health outcomes for patients with mental health challenges. 

Source: bmcprimcare.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12875-025-02876-0