Post-traumatic stress disorder: epidemiology, systemic problems and the role of the general practitioner in overcoming the shortage of care

The article examines the systemic problem of providing care to patients with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), associated with a critical shortage of specialized specialists (psychiatrists, psychotherapists). The author analyzes the epidemiology and pathogenesis of PTSD, highlighting the key causes of personnel shortages: the high risk of secondary injury and burnout among specialists, the duration and complexity of their training, the stigmatization of the disorder and the imbalance in the geographical distribution of personnel. As a strategic solution, it is proposed to actively involve general practitioners (GPS) in the early diagnosis and primary management of such patients. It is proved that GP, due to initial contact, trusting relationships and the ability to recognize the psychogenic nature of somatic complaints, can become a central link in the care system. In conclusion, the necessary areas of training for gps are formulated, including skills in screening, psychodiagnostics, crisis intervention and routing, which will reduce the burden on specialized services and improve the availability of care.