The family-focused practice of primary care clinicians: a case of missed opportunities.

BACKGROUND

Many patients who present to primary care settings with mental health concerns are parents with dependent children. However, little is known about the family-focused practices of these clinicians.

AIM

To identify the family-focused practices of a group of primary care clinicians.

METHODS

A sequential mixed methodology was employed; 21 primary care clinicians completed the Family Focused Mental Health Practice Questionnaire and then participated in one of three focus groups.

RESULTS

Primary care clinicians do not commonly engage with patients about family issues though many acknowledged that family-focused practice was important. Some questioned whether being family focused was part of their role with other barriers related to funding. Most expressed a need for training, though some indicated that they would not engage in a family-focused manner nor be trained in this approach, unless it was compulsory. The study highlights the missed opportunity for family-focused practices in primary care settings.

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrates the need for an "authorising" environment in which family-focused practices are not only supported but expected.