Teamwork in primary care mental health: a policy analysis.
OBJECTIVE
This paper reports a policy analysis conducted to examine the potential impact of recent mental health policy on team working in Primary Care Mental Health in England.


METHODS
An analysis of relevant policy documents was conducted. From an original selection of 49 documents, 15, which had significant implications for Primary Care Mental Health Teams, were analysed thematically.


RESULTS
There were no clear guidelines or objectives for Primary Care Mental Health Teams evident from the policy analysis. Collaborative working was advocated, yet other elements in the policies were likely to prevent this occurring. There was a lack of clarity concerning the role and function of new professions within Primary Care Mental Health Teams, adding further uncertainty to an already confused situation.


CONCLUSIONS
This uncertainty has the potential to reinforce professional barriers and increase the current difficulties with team working. IMPLICATIONS TO NURSING MANAGERS: An analysis of recent policy contributes to our understanding of the context of care. The lack of clarity in current health policy presents a significant challenge for those managing primary care mental health teams. Team working is likely to improve if targets, processes and responsibilities are made clearer.
Nolan
Eloise
E
School of Health Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK.
Hewison
Alistair
A
D003299:Cooperative Behavior; D004739:England; D018166:Health Care Reform / Q000458:organization & administration; D006287:Health Planning Guidelines; D006291:Health Policy; D006302:Health Services Research; D054625:Healthcare Disparities; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D020380:Needs Assessment; D009937:Organizational Objectives; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration*; D018802:Patient-Centered Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D011050:Policy Making; D017410:Practice Guidelines as Topic; D011320:Primary Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D024382:Professional Role; D015397:Program Evaluation; D013222:State Medicine / Q000458:organization & administration; D013240:Stereotyping; D017749:Total Quality Management / Q000458:organization & administration