The Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program: reactions of general practitioners and their patients.

Objective: To evaluate reactions of general practitioners (GPs) and their patients to the Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program (MHNIP).

Method: A descriptive, exploratory approach was employed using discussion groups with 25GPs and individual interviews with 19 patients receiving treatment through the MHNIP. All discussion groups and interviews were audio taped, transcribed and analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results: There was overwhelming support for the MHNIP across GP and patient groups. Patients noted that the treatment provided through the program was convenient, holistic and non-stigmatising. GPs valued the collaborative working arrangements with mental health nurses (MHNs) and highlighted the ability of these nurses to provide a wide range of interventions for patients with complex mental health problems.

Conclusions: The collaborative working arrangement between GPs and MHNs promoted through the MHNIP was perceived to have significantly enhanced primary care services for those with mental health problems. What is known about the topic? The introduction of MHNs into GP practices under the MHNIP, a new primary care initiative, represents a major reform in the provision of primary care services for those with mental health problems. What does this paper add? This paper reports on the reactions of GPs and patients to the introduction of the MHNIP. What are the implications for practitioners? The collaborative model promoted through the program enables family doctors to play a greater role in the management of mental health conditions within the primary care setting. MHNs working with the program need considerable experience and skill in dealing with a broad range of mental health problems. In general, GPs require a better understanding of the overall program.