title: From pioneers to scientists: challenges in establishing evidence-gathering models in torture and trauma mental health services for refugees.
abstract: Outcome studies on treatment of trauma-affected refugees have been published but are limited in design and quality. In this article, we discuss possible impediments to pursuing research aimed at gathering evidence to support the efficacy of treatments in the field and the challenges in carrying out such inquiries. We then present a working model that demonstrates the feasibility of integrating outcome research into clinical settings. The aim of this model is to involve all personnel in generating research of high quality with minimal additional costs and time commitment. We conclude that although challenges remain in carrying out treatment outcome studies, they can be overcome by careful consultation and negotiation in a setting with an established ethos of commitment to the scientific endeavor. Ultimately, identifying the most effective interventions will provide better treatment and quality of life for the large number of traumatized refugees seeking assistance for mental health problems.
authors.affiliation: *Competence Centre for Transcultural Psychiatry, Psychiatric Centre Ballerup, the Mental Health Services of the Capital Region of Denmark, Ballerup; †Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark; and ‡Psychiatry Research and Teaching Unit, School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
authors.forename: Jessica
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Carlsson
authors.forename: Charlotte
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Sonne
authors.forename: Derrick
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Silove
mesh_terms: D055317:Evidence-Based Practice / Q000379:methods / Q000458:organization & administration*; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005544:Forecasting; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000639:trends; D017146:Models, Organizational; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians' / Q000458:organization & administration; D011788:Quality of Life; D012036:Refugees / Q000523:psychology*; D012107:Research Design; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D014104:Torture / Q000523:psychology*