Margeaux Naughton, MD, highlights the efficacy of the P2C3 model for child mental health

The Pediatric Psychiatry Colocalized Consult Clinic (P2C3) model, as discussed by Margeaux Naughton, MD, a clinical assistant professor at the University of Michigan, represents a significant shift in addressing the pediatric mental health gap. By embedding child and adolescent psychiatrists directly into the pediatric medical home, the model aims to provide timely access to specialized care while equipping pediatric residents with the skills to manage common mental health conditions.

The implementation of the P2C3 model was not without its challenges. Initial logistical hurdles included securing dedicated physical clinic space within busy primary care settings to ensure the colocalized nature of the model was maintained. From an administrative standpoint, the team had to build specific scheduling templates within the electronic medical records (EMRs) to accommodate a consultative workflow that differed from standard primary care visits.

Furthermore, Naughton emphasized the importance of clear communication to ensure that pediatricians understood that the model was consultative, not a permanent transfer of care. Overcoming these barriers required intense collaboration, including psychiatrists attending pediatric faculty meetings and the initial utilization of social workers to screen and ensure that referrals were appropriate for this specific consult model.

A core component of P2C3 is the warm handoff and the eventual transition of patients back to their primary care physician (PCP). The criteria for transitioning a patient are determined on a case-by-case basis. Generally, a patient must be clinically stable on a medication regimen for several months before being transitioned.

The process is supported by robust EMR communication to ensure that the PCP feels comfortable and fully prepared to resume long-term management. This structure ensures that specialized psychiatric resources are preserved for new consultations while expanding the PCP’s capacity to manage stabilized patients.

To ensure financial viability, the P2C3 model utilizes a specific billing structure in which reimbursement for visits flows directly to the psychiatry department. This covers the psychiatrist’s time and effort while maintaining the clinic’s presence within the pediatric space.

For smaller or rural practices, Naughton suggests starting small—such as dedicating only a half-day per week—and leveraging rotating residents or other practice providers to make the model sustainable and scalable within different health care environments. Since its launch, the P2C3 model has facilitated over 1,500 visits, significantly reducing wait times from several months to as little as 1 to 3 weeks for critical cases such as attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, depression, and anxiety.

No relevant disclosures.

Reference

Naughton MA, McLaughlin SK, Burrows HL, Hua LL, Quigley J. The Pediatric Psychiatry Colocalized Consult Clinic: an innovative care model and curricular and practice solution. Psychiatr Serv. Published online February 13, 2026. doi:10.1176/appi.ps.20250072