Article
Acceptance of and intent to adopt video consultations for addressing mental health disorders in primary care: A cross-sectional mixed methods study among general practitioners
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Published: | October 12, 2018 |
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Background: Most patients with mental health conditions are treated in primary care. Recently, integrated services consisting of synchronous video consultations embedded in primary care but carried out by mental health specialists have been proposed. To date, little is known on implementation outcomes for this model. We aimed to identify its acceptance of and intent to adopt among general practicioners (GPs) in Germany.
Methods: In a mixed methods study with sequential exploratory design, we sent an ultra-brief questionnaire to all GPs licensed under the German statutory health insurance system in one urban and four rural districts in Southern Germany. To gain in-depth understanding, we conducted focus groups with 19 GPs. We analyzed quantitative data descriptively and qualitative data via content analysis.
Results: The survey response rate amounted to 22% (176/788 GPs). One in two respondents (49.4%) indicated support for video consultations. One in three (35.2%) considered implementation in their own practice. Qualitative findings were heterogeneous: GPs outlined the benefits regarding a) fast and easy accessible provision of mental health care and b) collaborative information exchange with specialists. Nevertheless, in the light of anticipated implementation efforts, some interviewees could not identify any benefit.
Discussion: GPs are open-minded towards video consultations for mental health disorders embedded in primary care, although a significant proportion is skeptical about implementation in their own practice. Our results point to a potential gap between the acceptance and intent to adopt the suggested model.
Practical implications: Given the potential benefits we would encourage pilot studies with a specific focus on raising the intent to adopt video consultations in primary care. Specifically, the BMBF-funded junior research group is currently conducting a pilot trial in the Rhine-Neckar region in Southern Germany.