Improving Primary Care Providers’ Confidence in Management of Behavioral Health Disorders Through Use of the ECHO Model

Pediatric behavioral health (BH) conditions are present in approximately 20% of children. Primary care providers are assuming more aspects of their patients’ BH care and desire education about common BH conditions. A primary care BH Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) program conducted bi-monthly tele-educational sessions to community pediatricians in a health network. Sessions provided best practice information about a variety of BH topics. Participants completed surveys about satisfaction with the educational program and self-assessment of confidence and competence in treating BH disorders before and after the ECHO program. Survey results showed providers reported increased knowledge and competence in many aspects of BH care including screening, providing education, management (BH strategies and medication), and knowledge of resources. A BH ECHO program is a promising approach to addressing the challenges primary care providers face in caring for youth with BH needs.