Screening for psychosocial problems in primary care.
Evaluating and understanding the physical, emotional, and social condition of a patient is an important component of primary care. Time constraints, however, often make it difficult for the physician to explore these areas in detail with every patient. One approach that can be helpful is the use of a simple questionnaire that can be completed by the patient in advance of seeing the physician. The use of one questionnaire, the Multifactor Health Inventory (MHI), in filling the need for such an instrument is detailed. The MHI helps the physician screen for psychophysiologic, psychiatric, attitudinal, and substance abuse problems. It also provides direction for productive follow-up interviewing. Research has shown that many patients with psychosocial problems are not identified by the physician. A questionnaire can help increase physician awareness of these patients and their problems.
Hase
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HD
University of North Dakota Family Residency Program, Bismarck 58501.
Luger
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JA
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis*; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D010551:Personality; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires