Exploring pre-implementation perceptions of integrated care in a university setting.

Objective: To examine providers' perceptions of integrated care prior to the merger of a university's student health center and counseling services. Participants: Seventeen providers across student health services (n = 9) and counseling (n = 8) agreed to participate in the qualitative study. Method: Semi-structured individual interviews that focused on the perceived benefits and challenges of the merger were conducted in December 2019. Following the interviews, a thematic analysis was completed. Results: The perceived benefits noted by providers centered on the ability of an interdisciplinary team to improve the coordination of, access to, and quality of care delivered to students. However, more anticipated challenges were reported by providers (e.g., differences in training and care protocols, losing one's autonomy as a provider). Conclusions: This qualitative study provides a more in-depth analysis of providers' perceptions of integrated care prior to implementation in a university setting and may have implications for model adoption.

Results from a community mental health assessment in a historically black church: A call for action.

African Americans' rates of mental illness are similar to those of the general population, however, their rates of utilization of any mental health service is lower than many other ethnic/racial groups, specifically, non-Hispanic, Whites. Many African Americans do not receive adequate treatment for mental health issues due to several barriers to help-seeking behavior. Despite these barriers, African American communities have traditionally sought support from pastors or ministers of historically black churches in times of crises or when experiencing mental health issues. Research has shown that African Americans rely on faith, family, and their churches for emotional support rather than turning to health care professionals. To address the stigma of mental health and identify barriers to seeking mental health care in African American communities in Wichita, KS, a local Wichita historically black church, developed and hosted a mental/emotional health awareness conference. Approximately 30% of the 249 participants who attended the conference were surveyed to assess conference impact, conference satisfaction, and barriers to seeking mental health services. Results indicated approximately 37% of those surveyed lived in lower-income neighborhoods. Conference impact and satisfaction were both rated favorably. Lastly, the top three barriers to mental health care were: (1) "I don't want to be labeled," (2) "I can't afford it," and (3) "I don't know where to go for care." These data highlight the need for stigma reducing interventions and for additional policy changes to address the disparity in health-seeking behaviors of African Americans.