The complexity of mental health care for people with COPD: a qualitative study of clinicians' perspectives.
Juliet WangKaren WillisElizabeth BarsonNatasha SmallwoodPublished in: NPJ primary care respiratory medicine (2021)
Anxiety and depression are common mental health illnesses in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). However, patients often decline formal mental health care with barriers identified at the patient, health provider and health system levels. Currently clinicians' perspectives on this issue are not well understood. A qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was undertaken to explore clinician perceived barriers and facilitators to acceptance of psychological care amongst people with COPD. Twenty-four Australian respiratory health professionals participated. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically. An overarching theme of 'complexity' was identified, which was evident across five domains: (1) physical and mental health illnesses; (2) psychosocial circumstances; (3) community views and stigma; (4) educational needs and knowledge gaps; (5) navigating the health system. Targeted patient education around psychological interventions and integration of mental health clinicians within multidisciplinary outpatient respiratory services are needed to address the current challenges.
Keyphrases
- mental health
- chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- healthcare
- lung function
- palliative care
- mental illness
- end stage renal disease
- quality improvement
- case report
- newly diagnosed
- primary care
- chronic kidney disease
- ejection fraction
- public health
- physical activity
- prognostic factors
- cystic fibrosis
- depressive symptoms
- peritoneal dialysis
- social support
- air pollution
- cancer therapy
- risk assessment
- affordable care act
- chronic pain
- drug delivery
- health insurance
- respiratory tract
- hiv infected