P-867 - Mental health education for primary care providers

Abstract

Introduction Primary care providers are the main source of mental health services for the majority of patients around the world. Therefore providing continuous mental health education to primary care providers can positively affect health outcomes. Objectives To develop and test creative mental health educational initiatives for primary care audience. Aims To enhance primary care providers’ knowledge and awareness of countertransference reactions. Methods A half-day workshop was designed with the emphasis on education about countertransference reactions that “difficult” patients invoke. Case examples encouraged reflection and reframing the problem from “difficult” patient to “difficult” clinician-patient interaction. Pre-, post-workshop and satisfaction evaluation questionnaire were done. Results Participants were highly satisfied with the workshop. Their self-perceived knowledge of transference and countertransference and strategy to manage difficult encounters improved post workshop. Conclusion Educating primary care providers and building their skills will improve clinician-patient encounters and health outcomes.