Early detection of psychosis in general practice

Early Detection of psychosis in General Practice Introduction General practioners have an important role to play in the early detection and management of psychosis. However little is known about the way GPs handle this problem and what problems they are facing Methods A focus group research was performed in two cities of Flanders to get insight in the management of psychosis. Transcripts were coded by two independent researchers, consensus was reached after discussion, using the grounded theory. Results Four focusgroups were performed untill saturation. 23 GPs with with an average professional experience of 19 years and a male/female ratio of 3,3 participated. Nine clusters were identified: the professionalism of the GP, diagnostic issues, the cooperation with the specialized mental health sector, patient behaviour and properties, the subclinical and various course of the disease, the relation with the family and the organisation of care. Less important issues are the admission to the hospital and substance abuse. Conclusion GPs are in engaged and in favor of the care for psychotic patients but experience important tresholds in the organization of care and the cooperation with the mental health care sector. Getting support is more important than educational tools. The results support and confirm the rare existing data. Enhancing the care for (early) psychotic patients will need important changes in the service delivery and health care organisation.status: publishe