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Family physicians and referral for psychotherapy
J R Rudisill1, A F Painter, P Rodenhauser
1Department of Family Practice, Wright State University School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45401-0927.
International Journal of Psychiatry in Medicine
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Family physicians refer patients for psychotherapy based on problem severity, suicide risk, and need for specialized care. Key therapist traits include ability, availability, and interpersonal skills.
Area of Science:
- Medical Psychology
- Family Medicine
- Psychotherapy Referrals
Background:
- Family physicians play a crucial role in mental healthcare.
- Understanding referral patterns is vital for integrated care.
- Psychotherapy access can be improved by optimizing physician referrals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify factors influencing family physicians' psychotherapy referral decisions.
- To explore desired characteristics of psychotherapists from the physician's perspective.
- To understand the process of finding and collaborating with psychotherapists.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire survey was distributed to 154 family practice faculty at Wright State University.
- A 63% response rate was achieved.
- Data analysis focused on factors influencing referral decisions and therapist preferences.
Main Results:
- Problem severity, suicide risk, and need for specialized treatment were key referral factors.
- Physicians value therapist ability, availability, holistic appreciation, interaction skills, and experience.
- Physicians utilize specific methods for finding psychotherapists and desire particular feedback.
Conclusions:
- Referral decisions are multifactorial, emphasizing patient need and therapist qualifications.
- Clear communication and collaboration between family physicians and psychotherapists are essential.
- Optimizing referral pathways can enhance patient access to mental health services.