Towards new models of care: Developing a curriculum for interprofessional mental health training

Abstract

Introduction Interprofessional training remains rare in mental health and psychiatry, yet this is an ideal area to benefit from this approach. Traditionally clinicians from various specialities have trained ‘in silos', with knowledge expansion the focus rather than experiential team-based learning. There is no unifying mental health curriculum to meet training needs of healthcare workforces, particularly in light of New Models of Care. A move towards reducing traditional barriers between disciplines, and more collaborative patient-focused care, must be reflected in training strategies as well as service structure. Aims To develop a comprehensive mental health curriculum relating to New Models of Care with an interprofessional focus, having recognised gaps in existing provision. Methods A literature, strategy, and policy review identified best practice in interprofessional training for mental health. A scoping exercise collected current training plans for mental health across professions, mental health trusts, primary care and others within Community Education Provider Networks. Focus groups were held with key stakeholders across professions, trusts, and institutions to further develop the curriculum structure and pilot ideas. The curriculum was drafted and reviewed with local education leads, before being finalised. Results The final interprofessional mental health curriculum presents a clearly structured, innovative approach to mental health training applicable to all professions and organisations, with an interprofessional focus to facilitate the transition to New Models of Care and improved patient experience and outcomes. Conclusion We hope this curriculum will be adopted by local education leads and departments, and will have significant, wide-reaching impact on mental health training and subsequently patient care.