AdvancedMD Survey Finds 67% of Medical Groups Now Employ Behavioral Health Specialists
Telehealth emerges as the top technology for delivering mental health services amid nationwide provider shortages
South Jordan, Utah – September 24, 2025 – Independent medical practices are increasingly becoming the first point of contact for mental health care, with primary care providers often identifying depression, anxiety, and other behavioral health conditions before patients see a specialist — especially among teens.
A new survey released today by AdvancedMD, a leading provider of cloud-based healthcare software, highlights how private practices are adapting to meet this rising demand. The survey, which polled more than 200 medical group owners and staff, found that 67% of medical groups now employ at least one behavioral health specialist, representing a significant shift toward integrated care models in ambulatory settings.
In addition, 15% of practices reported that while they do not have a behavioral health provider on staff, they routinely screen patients for mental health concerns during visits — a critical step in early identification and intervention.
Key Survey Highlights
- Telehealth leads behavioral health tech adoption: Nearly 60% of practices have implemented telehealth solutions to deliver mental health services, making it the most widely adopted technology among respondents.
- Rising patient demand for virtual mental health care: 70% of practices reported weekly or daily requests for telehealth mental health appointments, with 38% reporting daily requests.
- Digital tools driving better outcomes: More than 60% of providers rated their digital tools as either “very effective” or “somewhat effective” in identifying and supporting patients’ mental health needs.
Addressing a Growing National Crisis
According to Mental Health America’s 2024 State of Mental Health in America report, nearly one in four U.S. adults experienced a mental illness in 2023. Among youth ages 12 to 17, one in five reported at least one major depressive episode during the same period — yet fewer than half received any form of treatment.
Compounding the issue, more than 122 million Americans live in areas with a shortage of mental health professionals. This lack of access has placed primary care physicians and independent practices at the forefront of screening and delivering care, often through virtual visits and other technology-enabled approaches.
“Our survey findings signal a much-needed transformation in healthcare,” said Amanda Sharp, CEO of AdvancedMD. “Providers are seeking new ways to address the mental health needs of their patients. Our solutions are designed to support private practices with customizable workflows, billing tools, and telehealth platforms — enabling them to deliver holistic care and reach patients wherever they are.”
Telehealth as a Lifeline
The survey results underscore the growing role of telehealth in bridging care gaps, particularly in rural and underserved areas. By offering mental health services virtually, practices can provide patients with greater convenience and flexibility, while reducing barriers to accessing timely care.
Sharp added, “The telehealth component is especially impactful because it allows practices to extend their reach to patients who might otherwise go without care, ultimately improving health outcomes and patient satisfaction.”
A Shift Toward Integrated Care
AdvancedMD’s findings highlight a broader trend toward integration of mental health into primary care settings. As practices expand their services, they are not only improving access for patients but also reducing the stigma associated with seeking behavioral health support.
This evolution reflects a new model of ambulatory care, where technology plays a central role in connecting providers, patients, and mental health resources.
About the Survey
The survey polled over 200 medical group owners and staff members across the U.S. to understand how healthcare technology is being leveraged to expand access to behavioral health services. Respondents represented a diverse mix of practices, from small independent offices to larger multispecialty groups.