“How can family practice physicians help in early diagnosis of mental health problems?”
I recently read an article that mentioned regular visits to a family practice doctor can help in addressing mental disorders. Is it true? If yes, then how?
3 Answers
FamilyPractitionerMentalIllness
Yes, through screening questions which are directly and indirectly asked during your annual health visits.
Continuity of care is a Holy Grail in Family medicine.
By being aware of symptoms and considering the diagnosis a family doc may intervene by treatment and or referral ASAP.
By being aware of symptoms and considering the diagnosis a family doc may intervene by treatment and or referral ASAP.
Most family physicians are comfortable recognizing and managing common mental health problems. However, more severe mental health issues may require psychiatric intervention and/or regular mental health counseling by a licensed psychologist or mental health counselor.
William Z Cohen, M.D., F. A. A. F. P.
William Z Cohen, M.D., F. A. A. F. P.
