Mental health delivery in primary care: The perspectives of primary care providers

Arch Psychiatr Nurs. 2019 Oct;33(5):63-67. doi: 10.1016/j.apnu.2019.08.001. Epub 2019 Aug 19.

Abstract

Purpose: To explore perspectives of primary care providers (PCPs), including physicians and nurse practitioners (NPs), about delivery of mental health care in primary care settings.

Methods: We used a qualitative descriptive designed convenience sample of physicians (N = 12) and NPs (N = 14) through face-to-face interviews in New York State.

Results: Three themes emerged: 1) prioritization of patient needs; 2) applicability of mental health care in primary care settings; and 3) physician and NP approaches to mental health care.

Conclusions: PCPs recognized importance of addressing patients' mental health care needs and barriers in primary care practices.

Keywords: Acts of omission; Care omission; Healthcare neglect; Mental health; Primary care.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Attitude of Health Personnel*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Mental Health Services*
  • New York
  • Nurse Practitioners*
  • Physicians, Primary Care*
  • Primary Health Care*
  • Qualitative Research