Among financial uncertainties and prolonged time shut-in at home, the need for mental health check-ups may be greater than ever. Mercy Care is using phone and virtual visits to continue to help behavioral health patients. Over the phone or computer, patients can keep their appointments – at a safe distance.

“Giving our patients some options for maintaining their visits without coming into the office is essential right now,” said behavioral health manager Emily Bakshi, LCSW.

In response to COVID-19, psychiatrists, behavioral health specialists, substance use disorder counselors and certified peer specialists have begun conducting virtual visits for their existing patients. Anxious about work, home-schooling, childcare or have medical concerns, patients can call for a telephone appointment or a video chat with their regular established behavioral health provider.

New patients can call 678-843-8600 and ask to talk to a member of the behavioral health team about scheduling options.

“This is evolving by the minute,” Bakshi said. “We will keep perfecting the process as we move along, but we needed to start somewhere in order to meet needs.”

Though Mercy Care treats patients from all backgrounds and a diverse range of socioeconomic statuses, 80.6% of behavioral health patients and 96% of substance use disorder patients are experiencing homelessness. With unemployment on the rise, these numbers will increase. Telephonic behavioral health visits keep clinic doors “open” for otherwise isolated groups with little support to lean on, especially now amidst a crisis.

While behavioral health services are just one component of Mercy Care’s integrated healthcare model, they are a crucial tool for healing and sustaining wellness. In the face of uncertainty, the behavioral health team continues to improve access and care for the our patients’ needs.