3 minute read. Original post available here

Returning to the PCBH (Primary Care Behavioral Health) world after a week off is always an exciting, yet frightening experience. My mind always worries when returning to clinical work.

“Will I still be able to do this?”

“Do I still got what it takes?”

And, then, all that doubt and uncertainty is washed away as soon as I step back into the medical pods.

Medical assistants (MA) and nurses say, “We missed you! So glad you are back,”.

A pediatrician yells for me down the hall way as he proudly informs me of how the state of Washington is supporting PCBH by workforce development initiatives and increasing Medicaid reimbursement for BH (behavioral health) visits by 15%.

Another MA, after brilliantly interpreting for me in a visit, saying, “You know, I just always say to myself, just be like the BHCs (behavioral health consultants)!”

Then to the patients, including a variety of handoffs, follow-ups, and new and old patients. Trauma, weight-loss, stress, DM (diabetes management), and more.

The last visit of the day ends with a patient that the PCP (primary care provider) and I have been working with for a number of years and who appears to be finally ready to pass on after years of dealing with cancer.

The patient’s voice sounded weak on the phone. For the first time they let on that they were worried about not being present for their child’s approaching graduation. Tears and heartache filled the spirit.

When I went to consult with the PCP, who was running behind, and tell them the news, tears came. We both, along with the MA, held our experience together, knowing the pain the family was feeling, as well as our own pain of losing a patient that had been inspiring and resilient.

My mind laughs now at what it was saying at the beginning of the clinic.

“Will I still be able to do this?”

Even through the pain and busyness of the clinic, PCBH allows us to do what we strive to do and to do with a team. Reaching and walking with patients during some of the most difficult times; of course, we are able to still do this, as this is being human with each other. My gratitude to you all and for being able to share these stories!