AdvancedMD Survey Finds Two-Thirds of Medical Groups Employ Behavioral Health Specialists
South Jordan, UT — September 24, 2025 — A new survey by AdvancedMD highlights how independent medical practices are expanding mental health services, with 67% of respondents reporting their group employs at least one behavioral health specialist.
The survey, which polled more than 200 medical group owners and staff, also found that 15% of practices without in-house behavioral health professionals still conduct mental health screenings.
Telehealth Driving Mental Health Access
Among the technology solutions supporting behavioral health care, 58% of respondents cited telehealth tools, making it the most widely adopted digital solution—more than double the rate of those using digital screening and assessment tools.
The survey also revealed:
- Nearly 70% of medical groups said patients request telehealth appointments for mental health services weekly or daily.
- 38% of those groups reported receiving such requests on a daily basis.
- More than 60% of respondents rated their digital tools as “very effective” or “somewhat effective” at supporting patients’ mental health needs.
Broader Context
The findings align with national trends. 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, while more than 122 million people live in designated mental health workforce shortage areas. Among youth, one in five experienced at least one major depressive episode, but fewer than half received treatment.
Industry Perspective
“Our survey findings signal a much-needed transformation in the healthcare space, with providers seeking new ways to address the mental health needs of their patients,” said Amanda Sharp, CEO of AdvancedMD. “The telehealth component is especially impactful considering the convenience and flexibility it offers, while also making it possible to provide mental health services in rural areas that may lack access to specialists.”
AdvancedMD says its software platform, including telehealth tools, customizable workflows, and billing solutions, is designed to support practices integrating behavioral health services into primary care.
