Improving Mental Health Care in Goa, India
Author Information
Author(s): Vikram H Patel, Betty R Kirkwood, Sulochana Pednekar, Ricardo Araya, Michael King, Daniel Chisholm, Gregory Simon, Helen Weiss
Primary Institution: London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
An intervention strategy based on a Collaborative Stepped Care model will be clinically- and cost-effective compared to Enhanced usual care control for the treatment of common mental disorders in primary care attenders.
Conclusion
The trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a collaborative stepped-care intervention for treating common mental disorders in primary care settings in Goa, India.
Supporting Evidence
- Common mental disorders are prevalent among primary care attenders, with up to 30% affected.
- The trial will be the first to evaluate a complex intervention for integrating mental health treatments into primary care in a developing country.
- Previous studies have shown significant improvements in disability levels with similar interventions.
Takeaway
This study is trying to help people with mental health problems in India by using a special plan that combines different types of treatments.
Methodology
A cluster randomized controlled trial involving 24 primary care facilities in Goa, with participants screened for common mental disorders and allocated to either a collaborative stepped care intervention or enhanced usual care.
Potential Biases
Potential bias may arise from the enhanced usual care control arm receiving screening results, which could influence treatment decisions.
Limitations
The study may face challenges in generalizability due to the specific context of Goa and the reliance on additional human resources.
Participant Demographics
Participants are primary care attenders in Goa, India, with a focus on those suffering from common mental disorders.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% CI
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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