Evaluation of Primary Care Physicians’ Approaches to Mental Health and Diseases

Objective: Mental disorders are highly prevalent in the general population and associated with low quality of life. Mental disorders in primary care are common but under-recognized and managed suboptimal. This study aims at assessing primary care physicians’ approach to mental disorders and related educational needs. Methods: This cross-sectional study was performed between July 15, 2015 and August 15, 2015. We aimed to reach the whole population without sample selection. A total of 159 physicians working at family medicine centres in the city centre of Denizli were invited and 151 physicians (95%) agreed to participate. Data were collected via face-to-face interviews by using a questionnaire designed by the investigators. Results: Family physicians stated to believe that approximately 25% of their patients have psychiatric problems but they think to have only diagnosed 4.6% of them. The most common barrier mentioned in diagnosing and treating mental disorders was lack of time. It was observed that family physicians have positive attitudes towards mental disorders. Among patients with a mental disease diagnosed by family physicians, 50% were prescribed drugs and 25% were referred to a psychiatrist. It was noticed that the majority of the family physicians believed to be partially sufficient in the management of mental disorders. Education in mental disorders was stated to be necessary by 78.8% of the physcians. Conclusion: It was determined that the majority of family physicians found themselves partially competent in the management of mental illnesses, were aware of their deficiencies in terms of mental illnesses, and were open to training. It could be beneficial to provide training in line with the needs of physicians.