What prompts someone to pivot their career path entirely?  For Dr. Kyle Lavin, it was the compassionate care he witnessed during his mother's illness that led him to psychiatry and palliative care, despite initially resisting following in his father's footsteps.  This episode spotlights Kyle's emotional journey, sparked by personal family challenges, including his mother's battle with severe health issues and substance use disorder.  His story is one of resilience and determination, ultimately leading him to champion the integration of behavioral health into serious illness care, aiming to bridge the gap in our fragmented healthcare system.

As we navigate through the complex challenges faced by patients trying to access behavioral health services, Kyle underscores the systemic issues within mental health care. T he difficulties of seeking help in a siloed system, especially during vulnerable times, are significant.  We dissect these hurdles, discussing the critical shortage of mental health providers and the urgent need for a more integrated approach, particularly for the aging population.  By examining collaborative care models and the potential role of non-licensed providers, we highlight innovative strategies for expanding care availability and ensuring each team member operates at their fullest potential.

In a world increasingly reliant on technology, we explore how AI is reshaping patient experiences, particularly in hospice and mental health services.  From AI-enhanced patient intake platforms to the benefits of telehealth, the discussion highlights the transformative potential and ethical challenges of incorporating technology in high-touch fields.  We reflect on maintaining a balance between technology and human touch, emphasizing the need for compassionate care. Join us as we delve into the evolving perceptions of mental health, drawing parallels to advancements in palliative care, and consider the future landscape of healthcare in an age of rapid technological change.

Guest:  Dr. Kyle Lavin, MD. MPH. Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at UNC Chapel Hill and Chief Clinical Officer of Cerula Care

Host:  Chris Comeaux, President / CEO of TCN / TCG

https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast/the-mental-and-behavioral-health-challenge-with-kyle-lavin

Teleios Collaborative Network / https://www.teleioscn.org/tcntalkspodcast