BHOP provides immediate care to behavioral health

  • Published
  • By 60th Medical Group
  • 60th Medical Group

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – It is common for military members to experience stress that can compromise life at work and at home.  Family members also can experience a decline in functioning as they deal with the stress that comes from supporting a loved one who is serving our country.

The Air Force recognizes the need to provide comprehensive resources to help support active duty members, dependents and retirees who may be experiencing situations that impact their social and work lives.  One of these resources is the Behavioral Health Optimization Program.

BHOP became the first stop for all behavioral health care Sept. 6 for TRICARE beneficiaries ages 18 and older at Travis Air Force Base, California. 

BHOP integrates psychologists, clinical social workers and psychiatric nurses into primary care clinics.  The role of these professionals is to consult with primary care managers on patients’ medical and mental health conditions, such as job stress, family conflict or grief or chronic medical conditions such as pain, insomnia or diabetes.  They also help with behavioral changes patients want to make such as to quit smoking or to start an exercise program. 

This shift in accessing mental health care through primary care clinics is the result of year-long pilot study that showed 90 percent of patients can get the treatment they need in primary care, decreasing the mental health stigma and increasing patient satisfaction. 

Treatment is typically limited to four sessions and emphasizes education, skill-building, self-management and home-based strategies.  

Patients requiring specialty mental health services are referred to the mental health clinic on base or to local community resources.

Active duty members should contact the mental health clinic directly if they require a special duty evaluation, fitness for duty evaluation, are under investigation or are dealing with substance abuse.  Members having thoughts of harming self or others should contact mental health during duty hours or the emergency department after hours. 

Patients can self-refer to BHOP or schedule an appointment through their primary care provider. In some cases, same-day appointments may be available.  To schedule a BHOP appointment, call central appointments at 707- 423-3000.