Residency training in mental health: a South Carolina family practice research consortium study

This study explored attitudinal, demographic, and residency training factors that affect the use of mental health (MH) interventions by family physicians.

All 872 alumni from seven family practice residency programs in South Carolina were sent a mail-back survey about MH issues. Alumni returned 400 surveys (46%).

An estimated 25% of routine patient care visits required some MH counseling. Interventions categorized by respondents as "often used" included counseling plus medication (58%), referral plus medication (39%), and counseling alone (30%). When respondents assessed their residency training, only psychopharmacology received high ratings from a majority of physicians (65%). Lectures, hospital rounds, and one-on-one supervision were the most common teaching methods. The use of multiple teaching methods was associated with higher perceived training quality. Nearly two thirds (62%) of physicians were interested in continuing education in MH counseling.

Family physicians have positive attitudes toward MH counseling and often provide MH interventions. Physicians' satisfaction with residency training in MH topics, however, could be improved. More MH teaching in ambulatory settings may be appropriate.