The relationship between the general practitioner and the clinical psychologist

Area of Science:

• Psychiatry
• General Practice
• Psychosomatic Medicine

Background:

• Growing recognition of psychological factors in patients with physical symptoms.
• Need for integrated care models in general practice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a collaborative working relationship between general practitioners and clinical psychologists.
• To outline diagnostic and treatment procedures for psychosomatic and minor psychiatric disorders presenting with somatic symptoms.

Main Methods:

• Described a working relationship between a general practitioner and a clinical psychologist.
• Discussed diagnostic and treatment procedures for 12 patients (7 female, 5 male).

Main Results:

• The described program was applied to patients presenting with somatic symptoms.
• The collaborative approach facilitated the management of psychosomatic and minor psychiatric conditions.

Conclusions:

• The described collaborative program is valuable for managing psychosomatic and minor psychiatric problems in primary care.
• Highlights the importance of integrating psychological support for patients with somatic complaints.