Name
PANEL: Embedding Mental Health into Primary Care: A Scalable National Model
Time
11:30 AM - 11:40 AM (EST)
Description

1. Introduction (1 min) Opening with a key statistic – Mental health is among the top three reasons Canadians visit their GP. The challenge – Despite this demand, primary care and mental health remain siloed, leading to long wait times, fragmented care, and physician burnout. Why WELL? – As Canada’s largest GP clinic operator, WELL Health is uniquely positioned to embed mental health care into primary care settings. 2. The Problem: Gaps in Access & Coordination (2 min) Long wait times – Many patients wait months for mental health services, leading to worsening conditions. GPs lack referral pathways – Physicians often struggle to connect patients with the right support. Disjointed care – Mental and physical health are treated separately, making care coordination difficult. 3. The Solution: A Fully Integrated Model (4 min) Seamless in-person & virtual therapy access – Patients referred by their GP are contacted within one hour, ensuring timely support. Empowering physicians – Doctors have direct referral pathways, removing barriers to mental health care. Collaborative care approach – Therapists work alongside physicians, improving continuity and treatment outcomes. Real-world impact – Early data and success stories demonstrating improved access, physician satisfaction, and patient outcomes. 4. The Future of Integrated Mental Health (2 min) Scaling across WELL’s national clinic network – Expanding access to more patients. Reducing burden on emergency rooms – Early intervention prevents crisis situations. The bigger vision – Making mental health a core part of primary care in Canada. 5. Closing & Call to Action (1 min) The ask – To truly close the gap, healthcare leaders, policymakers, and providers must collaborate to expand and normalize integrated mental health care. Final thought – Primary care is mental health care, and by working together, we can transform how Canadians receive support.

Marion Adams
Location Name
Pier-2 Room