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Clinical practice by behavioral scientists in family medicine programs
E L Diamond1, N L Detweiler, J Noce
1Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610.
Family Practice Research Journal
|January 1, 1987
Summary
Behavioral scientists in primary care settings address diverse mental health needs, primarily depression and anxiety. Short-term therapy is the main intervention for family practice patients needing mental health support.
Area of Science:
- Primary Health Care
- Behavioral Science
- Family Medicine
Background:
- Mental health liaison in primary care is crucial but under-addressed.
- Behavioral scientists integrated into family medicine residency training offer vital clinical services.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine clinical practice of behavioral scientists in family medicine settings.
- To identify referral reasons, chief complaints, psychosocial issues, and treatments for referred patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of patient referrals to three behavioral scientists across two primary care settings.
- Documentation of reasons for referral, chief complaints, psychosocial problems, dispositions, and treatments.
Main Results:
- A wide spectrum of mental health issues were assessed and treated.
- Depression, anxiety, and psychophysiological disorders were the most common presenting problems.
- Short-term therapy constituted the predominant treatment modality.
Conclusions:
- Behavioral scientists play a significant role in addressing diverse mental health needs within primary care.
- Integrated behavioral health services are effective in managing common conditions like depression and anxiety through short-term interventions.