Training in psychotherapy for medical doctors - implementation in practice

Abstract

Mental Health Screening of Syrian Refugees in Germany: The Refugee Health Screener Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to examine (1) the impact of training in psychotherapy on professional activities and personal life and (2) the frequency of psychotherapy services in primary care and specialty practices. Method: General practitioners and specialists in outpatient medical practices from Baden-Württemberg (n = 289) with completed additional training in psychotherapy were asked to fill out a questionnaire about the current state of implementation in their medical practice. Data were analyzed using descriptive and correlative statistical methods. Results: The response rate was 53.7 % (n = 150). Physicians reported very positive effects on professional activity, job and life satisfaction, and personal growth. They provide an average of 9.1 hours (SD 6.4) of psychotherapy per week. They provide low-frequency psychotherapy for longer periods per quarter to 21.3 (SD 55.6) patients with primarily chronic physical illnesses. Conclusions: Additional training in psychotherapy for physicians seems to be proving successful in its implementation in medical practice. Most physicians regularly provide psychotherapy on a small but significant scale. Further cross-regional studies including data from health insurance companies are needed.