"It's one less thing I have to do" : does referring patients to a co-located psychology service impact on the well-being of primary care health providers? : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University
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Date
2021
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Massey University
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Abstract
The aim of this research was to investigate if the impact of a co-located psychological service as a resource for Primary Care Providers to refer patients with mild to moderate mental health needs, would impact on the well-being of the providers at work. Mental health services in New Zealand are under constant strain, recently acknowledged by the Government’s injection of millions of dollars into those services. Innovative approaches are needed to reduce the burden on primary and secondary care settings, and to improve access to timely psychological support for those in the community who need help. Focused Acceptance and Commitment Therapy is a brief and timely intervention that focuses the patient on the “here and now” issue. FACT services are delivered by Psychologists working in a clinic located in a large primary care practice in the lower North Island. Participants in this study were recruited from this primary care practice who had recently introduced co-located psychology services. Participants were General Practitioners, Nurse Practitioners and Registered Nurses who referred patients to the FACT service. Data was analysed using thematic analysis following 15 minute interviews with each of the participants. The main findings were that participants reported that the increase in resources (i.e. the FACT service) decreased demands on participants and increased their well-being at work. Analysis also identified three realistic changes: longer consultation / follow up times; reduced paperwork; and increased staffing, which may reduce the demands on participants and support their wellbeing.