A new statewide survey released today by Blue Shield of California Foundation finds a shortfall in treatment for low-income Californians with behavioral health needs. Among those who’ve wanted to speak with a healthcare professional about their emotional health in the past year, only half have done so.

Lack of access and communication are barriers. Six in 10 say they didn’t know whom to talk to. Comparatively few rate their providers highly for asking about their emotional well-being. And while three-quarters say it’s important to have access to a counselor at their place of care, just about half say one actually is available.

The study finds a strong relationship between behavioral health services, successful patient-provider relationships and a personal connection between patients and their place of care, all key elements of patient engagement, satisfaction and loyalty.

Produced for the Foundation by Langer Research Associates, the report, “Exploring Low-Income Californians’ Needs and Preferences for Behavioral Health Care,” is the latest in a four-year series of studies examining the healthcare experiences of low-income Californians. See it here.