The psychologist's contribution to primary care: a reappraisal

Developments over the past few years necessitate a reappraisal of the way in which clinical psychologists can best contribute to primary care. Up until now, psychologists have concentrated on those problems which are their concern within psychiatric hospitals. In addition, they have largely adopted a specialist model of service which may not be in the best interests either of primary care or of clinical psychology. If their manner of working is to change, it will be important for psychologists to overcome the developing stereotype of their role. This might involve explicitly negotiating project-orientated commitments which respond to particular priorities in different settings.