Mental health issues are frequently identified in either primary care or emergency room settings, yet there is no agreement about which type of medical professional should treat these patients. Which statement about the management of mental health patients is most accurate?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The most accurate statement is that primary care clinicians are already overwhelmed with the volume and complexity of the patients they see and adding responsibility for mental health would be counterproductive. The current model, which consists of medical practitioners referring to mental health clinicians, does not seem to solve the problem, because a high proportion of patients who are referred never actually visit a mental health professional. The lack of follow through is not related to a shortage of mental health practitioners. Some believe that because of the stigma of mental health, patients will more easily accept treatment by a primary care medical practitioner.

Mental Health Issues Are Frequently Identified in Either Primary Care