Improving access to primary mental health care: uncontrolled evaluation of a pilot self-help clinic.
Psychological therapy is widespread in primary care, but demand often exceeds supply. Innovative self-help approaches may overcome some problems associated with access to therapists. The feasibility, acceptability, efficiency, and effectiveness of a fast-access mental health self-help clinic were examined in a pilot study. The therapist saw 159 patients in 16 months, and on average required only one hour per patient. Generally, patients who used the clinic were satisfied. They reported similar levels of distress at baseline as patients in traditional psychological therapy services, and comparable outcomes. The self-help clinic approach should be evaluated formally within a randomised controlled trial.
Lovell
Karina
K
Department of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting, Coupland III, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL. karina lovell@man.ac.uk
Richards
David A
DA
Bower
Peter
P
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000553:Ambulatory Care / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D006297:Health Services Accessibility / Q000458:organization & administration / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D008875:Middle Aged; D010342:Patient Acceptance of Health Care; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012648:Self Care / Q000379:methods*