Education programs for medical psychiatry collaborative care: A scoping review

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Education
• Interprofessional Collaboration
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Collaborative care models are increasingly recognized for improving patient outcomes.
• A gap exists in understanding the current landscape of collaborative care education programs.
• This review synthesizes existing literature on such educational initiatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and understand the current state of collaborative care education programs reported in the literature.
• To identify common program structures, delivery methods, and reported outcomes.
• To analyze factors influencing the implementation of these programs.

Main Methods:

• A scoping review methodology based on Arksey and O'Malley was employed.
• Data abstraction included article details, program specifics, outcomes, and implementation factors.
• Qualitative thematic analysis was used for implementation factors.

Main Results:

• Forty unique collaborative care education programs were identified.
• Most programs utilized didactic and/or in vivo training for multidisciplinary learners.
• Programs primarily focused on clinical knowledge/skill acquisition, with fewer addressing attitudes towards mental health and collaboration.

Conclusions:

• Despite evidence supporting collaborative care, few educational programs are documented.
• Essential elements for effective programs include routine multidisciplinary interaction and a focus on attitudes.
• Clinical change agents, leadership, and user-centered design are crucial for successful implementation and broader adoption.