Behavioral health demand continues to outpace the supply of clinicians available to meet it. At Becker’s Behavioral Health Summit, Michael Genovese, M.D., J.D., chief medical officer of behavioral health at Access TeleCare, joined Leo Pozuelo, M.D., chair of psychiatry at Cleveland Clinic, and other health system leaders to discuss how healthcare organizations can build more sustainable behavioral health workforce models.
Dr. Genovese described the current challenge as a long-term mismatch between supply and demand rather than a temporary staffing shortage. Addressing it will require faster credentialing, broader interstate licensure, stronger interdisciplinary care teams, and more effective use of telePsychiatry.
“We’ve removed geography as a barrier to care,” Dr. Genovese said. “No matter where you are, you can access the same type of care.”
The panel also discussed how telePsychiatry can strengthen clinician recruitment and retention. Dr. Pozuelo highlighted Cleveland Clinic’s work with Access TeleCare, noting that telePsychiatry coverage provides critical support for on-site clinicians and helps create a more sustainable practice environment.
For hospitals, the opportunity extends beyond filling open shifts. A structured teleBehavioral Health program can expand psychiatric capacity across emergency departments, inpatient units, and outpatient settings while supporting local clinicians and improving continuity of care.
Watch the full panel discussion above to hear how behavioral health leaders are approaching workforce shortages, clinician well-being, artificial intelligence, and the future of psychiatric care delivery.
