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Trends in mental health: implications for advanced practice nurses
Kathryn R Puskar1, Lisa Bernardo
1University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing, Pittsburgh, PA, USA. krp12@pitt.edu
Summary
Advanced practice nurses (APNs) are crucial for integrating mental health care into primary care, especially for underserved populations. Their holistic approach can improve health equity for vulnerable groups.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Delivery
- Mental Health Services
- Advanced Practice Nursing
Background:
- Vulnerable populations often face disparities in integrated healthcare.
- Historically, quality, integrated care has overlooked specific groups like minorities, elderly, and rural residents.
- There's a recognized gap in accessible mental health services for these populations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current mental health care trends for vulnerable populations.
- To identify strategies for advanced practice nurses (APNs) to integrate mental health into primary care.
- To advocate for improved healthcare access for underserved communities.
Main Methods:
- Review of original research and evidence-based clinical articles.
- Analysis of government publications and professional practice guidelines.
- Synthesis of current trends and best practices in integrated care.
Main Results:
- Vulnerable populations, including racial/ethnic minorities, those with chronic mental illness, the elderly, incarcerated individuals, and rural residents, are underserved.
- A significant need exists for APNs to provide integrated physical and mental health care.
- APNs can offer holistic, evidence-based care across diverse settings.
Conclusions:
- APNs, including nurse practitioners (NPs) and clinical nurse specialists (CNSs), are well-positioned to provide integrated care.
- Active involvement of APNs in provider panels and advocacy is essential.
- Integrating mental health into primary care through APNs can significantly improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations.