Primary care: contextual behavioral science

• Primary care is the setting where most people seek relief from suffering.
• The Primary Care Behavioral Health model offers a platform for ACT.
• While limited, evidence for use of ACT is growing.
• ACT may support achievement of better health outcomes.

This article reviews the literature related to application of contextual behavioral science (CBS) to primary care medical or general practice services. After introducing the scope of need for powerful third wave behavior therapies in this setting, the article describes the Primary Care Behavioral Health (PCBH) model, a platform for delivery of CBS interventions, particularly those of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). It then suggests adaptations to the methods of functional analysis needed to accommodate the population-based care perspective of primary care medicine. After a review of specific evidence concerning delivery of ACT in primary care, the article concludes with a discussion of the future of health and the potential support that use of ACT strategies may offer.