Mental health care training priorities in general practice

Mental health problems constitute a large part of general practitioners' (GPs') work, for which they may have received little training beyond their undergraduate education. They continue to find themselves criticized in the literature over inadequate recognition and management of these problems. While there is concern about the effectiveness of continuing medical education (CME), educational needs assessment can improve the outcome of CME programmes.

To assess GPs' perceived educational needs regarding mental health problems.

A questionnaire was developed, piloted and posted to GPs (n = 380) in the Lambeth, Southwark and Lewisham Family Health Services Authority (FHSA) area in south-east Thames. In addition to demographic data, the questionnaire asked practitioners to select from a list of 26 mental health topics those in which they would like further training, their preferred educational formats and timetabling, and willingness to attend for training. Two postal reminders were sent to non-respondents. Data were analysed using SPSS.

Altogether, 62% (237/380) of the GPs responded. The range for the number of topics selected was from zero to 26 and the mode was 5. Most frequently selected topics were psychiatric emergencies, somatization, counselling skills, 'heartsink' patients, psychosexual problems and stress management, each of which was chosen by at least 40%. Small group work alone, and allied to a lecture, was rated as the most useful educational format. In all, 74% (175/237) indicated that they would be interested in attending a half-day training course.

These results suggest that GPs working in the inner city recognize the importance of improving their skills in the care of mental health problems, and indicate which topics are regarded as the most important and suitable for educational interventions. A needs-led approach to continuing medical education of this kind will help to plan CME programmes relevant to GPs' needs.