Training and National Deficit of Psychiatrists in India
Author Information
Author(s): Thirunavukarasu M., Thirunavukarasu P.
Primary Institution: Stanley Medical College, Chennai, India
Hypothesis
The article aims to estimate the deficit of psychiatrists in India in relation to the epidemiological burden of mental illness.
Conclusion
India has a significant deficit of psychiatrists, estimated at 77%, which is insufficient to meet the mental health needs of the population.
Supporting Evidence
- India has a 6.5% prevalence of serious mental disorders, affecting approximately 71 million people.
- The average national deficit of psychiatrists in India is estimated to be 77%.
- More than one-third of the population has over a 90% deficit of psychiatrists.
- Only 1.4% of lecture time in medical education is devoted to psychiatry.
Takeaway
India has a lot of people who need help for mental health issues, but there aren't enough doctors to help them. We need to teach more doctors about mental health.
Methodology
The study analyzed the prevalence of serious mental disorders and the number of psychiatrists in India, using data from the National Survey of Mental Health Resources.
Limitations
The estimates were based on census data from 2001, and the current situation may be worse due to population growth and lack of psychiatrist output.
Participant Demographics
The study discusses the general population of India, which is approximately 1.17 billion.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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