Evidence Base for Collaborative Care (CoCM)

A substantial body of evidence for Collaborative Care has emerged since its development at the University of Washington in the 1990s. Beginning with the seminal IMPACT Trial published in 2002, more than 90 randomized controlled trials and several meta-analyses have shown the Collaborative Care model (CoCM) to be more effective than usual care for patients with depression, anxiety, and other behavioral health conditions. CoCM is also shown to be highly effective in treating co-morbid mental health and physical conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and HIV. Below are multiple curated lists of research, review, and practice-based articles that demonstrate the capacity for Collaborative Care to significantly improve patient lives. 

Foundational Evidence Base

Articles and systematic reviews supporting improved depression, PTSD, and/or anxiety outcomes when CoCM is implemented in primary care settings, including telehealth. 

Implementation and Practice-Based Evidence

Effective strategies for implementing sustainable CoCM programs, including in cardiovascular care and rural settings. 

Financing and Cost-Effectiveness

Proposed and realized payment models for financially sustainable CoCM programs. 

Treating Racial and Ethnic Groups with CoCM

Disparities in access to quality treatment for depression experienced by racial and/or ethnic minority groups can be alleviated with CoCM. 

Clinics Caring for Patients in Under-Resourced Communities

CoCM interventions improve outcomes in safety net clinics and FQHCs, OB/GYN clinics, and rural care settings. 

Concurrent Physical and Psychiatric Conditions

CoCM can enhance treatment for patients with cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or HIV, among other physical conditions. 

CoCM and Substance Abuse Disorders

Observational studies and clinical trials show how CoCM improves screening, referral, and treatment for substance use disorders in primary care. 

RESOURCE UPLOAD: CoCM and Substance Use Disorders

See the combined Evidence Base list in our resource library.