Evaluating and Improving Post-Hospitalization Mental Health Follow-Up Care

Using all-payer claims data from four diverse states, this study will identify patient, hospital and market characteristics associated with the receipt of timely follow-up mental health care after a hospitalization or an emergency department visit related to mental illness, and it will investigate whether such care affects patient outcomes or health spending. Findings can inform efforts of payers, providers and communities to improve follow-up care for this vulnerable and potentially expensive patient population.