Bridging the Gap: Dr. Mary Beth Alvarez on Integrating Physical and Mental Health Care
No matter where the patient shows up for healthcare, their mental health needs are addressed.
Picture a healthcare system where your physical and mental health are treated as one. In this episode of 'Whole Body Mental Health Radio', Dr. Jose Calderon-Abbo welcomes Dr. Mary Beth Alvarez to discuss her innovative approach to healthcare. Dr. Alvarez, who leads the Internal Medicine/Psychiatry residency at Tulane, brings a wealth of experience in treating medically complex cases and underserved populations.
She shares her journey in piloting primary care-based opiate replacement interventions at the Ruth Fertel Community Health Center, emphasizing the need for holistic care in all medical settings. Dr. Alvarez dives into the pressing issue of how poverty impacts both physical and mental health, advocating for more comprehensive care models that address these intertwined challenges. She also explores the connection between inflammation and mental health, shedding light on how metabolic disorders can influence psychological well-being.
Intriguingly, she discusses the role of asymptomatic heart rate variability as a tool for mental health assessment. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone passionate about the intersection of physical and mental health. Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone interested in holistic well-being, Dr. Alvarez's experiences and perspectives offer valuable takeaways on how we can create a more integrated approach to health care.