Dallas, Texas-based Baylor Scott & White Health is transitioning its Austin-area outpatient mental health services to Chicago-based Geode Health. The transition is intended to expand access to mental health services and behavioral health resources for patients in the region, according to a July 31 report from Austin American-Statesman.
Here are six things to know:
1. The partnership has more than doubled the number of physicians and behavioral health support staff serving Texas patients. It is also expanding in the Brazos Valley and has already extended to parts of North Texas.
2. The Austin-area locations affected are North Austin, South Austin, Westlake, Cedar Park, Georgetown, Leander, Pflugerville and Round Rock, along with virtual services, according to the report.
3. Patients will see no immediate changes to appointments, medications or treatment plans. Baylor Scott & White psychiatrists and psychologists have the option to join the Geode team.
4. The transition is scheduled to be completed by Oct. 26. Baylor Scott & White said it is not changing inpatient or outpatient mental health services in Temple or outpatient mental health clinics in its Hill Country locations.
5. The move is part of a broader shift among Austin-area hospitals away from directly operating mental health services. In 2024, Ascension Seton closed its Seton Shoal Creek Hospital while expanding access through a partnership with Cross Creek Hospital. St. David’s HealthCare has shelved indefinite plans for a behavioral health hospital near its North Austin campus.
6. Mental health and substance use treatment reimbursement from major insurers runs about a third lower than reimbursement for physical health treatment in Central Texas, according to the American Medical Association.
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