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How Kenyan physicians treat psychiatric disorders
C J Othieno1, V C Okech, J A Omondi
1Department of Psychiatry, College of Health Sciences, University of Nairobi.
East African Medical Journal
|May 11, 2002
Summary
Non-psychiatric doctors frequently encounter psychological problems like anxiety and depression but face obstacles in treatment and referrals due to patient resistance and knowledge gaps.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- General Medicine
- Healthcare Management
Background:
- Non-psychiatric doctors commonly encounter psychological disorders in patients.
- Effective management of these conditions is crucial for overall patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify psychological problems encountered by non-psychiatric doctors.
- To document treatments and referrals for psychiatric conditions.
- To determine obstacles in providing psychiatric care or referrals.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional survey was conducted.
- Participants included doctors at Kenyatta National Hospital, Nairobi.
- Usable questionnaires were obtained from 130 doctors.
Main Results:
- Anxiety, depression, psychosomatic disorders, and organic psychoses were common.
- Anxiolytics, antidepressants, and antipsychotics were frequently prescribed; brief counseling was common.
- Referrals to mental health professionals were infrequent.
- Obstacles included patient resistance, poor coordination, and insufficient knowledge.
Conclusions:
- Doctors acknowledge the prevalence of psychiatric disorders but face significant management challenges.
- Barriers to effective psychiatric care and referrals require addressing.
- Remedial measures are suggested to improve integrated mental healthcare.