Helping Patients with Psychosocial Problems Access Community Services
Author Information
Author(s): Justin Grayer, John Cape, Lisa Orpwood, Judy Leibowitz, Marta Buszewicz
Primary Institution: Centre for Outcomes Research and Effectiveness (CORE), University College London
Hypothesis
Can graduate primary care mental health workers effectively facilitate access to community services for patients with psychosocial problems?
Conclusion
Graduates with limited training in mental health can help patients with psychosocial problems access voluntary and community services, which patients find valuable.
Supporting Evidence
- 58% of patients contacted a community service suitable for their needs.
- Patient satisfaction scores indicated moderate satisfaction with the service.
- Reduction in probable mental health problems from 83% to 52%.
Takeaway
This study shows that recent graduates can help people with mental health issues find community support, and most patients liked the help they received.
Methodology
A before-after design was used, evaluating patient satisfaction and mental health outcomes after referrals to a GPCMHW.
Potential Biases
Patients who consented were more likely to speak English as a first language, which may introduce bias.
Limitations
The study may not be representative as practices volunteered, and not all patients consented or completed follow-up.
Participant Demographics
{"age_mean":43.14,"gender_distribution":{"male":38,"female":62},"ethnicity_distribution":{"white":67,"other":33},"first_language_distribution":{"english":81.6,"other":18.4},"work_status_distribution":{"employed":26.2,"unemployed":73.8}}
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.014
Confidence Interval
95% CI, 17% – 44%
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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