PacifiCare study shows work-related benefits of mental health treatment: results place value on managed care benefits.

PacifiCare Behavioral Health released the results of a four-year study last month that shows better work productivity and reduced work impairment among employees who engage in outpatient mental health treatment.

The study results, drawn from the experiences of about 20,000 patients between 1999 and 2002, represents the largest attempt to measure changes in work impairment and productivity among patients undergoing treatment. For PacifiCare, the results allow the managed behavioral healthcare organization (MBHO) to show employers and other purchasers the tangible, cost benefits of investing in mental health services.

The study, entitled "Behavioral Health Care: A Worthwhile Investment?" was published in last month's Employee Benefit Plan Review. …