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Australian Journal of Primary Health Australian Journal of Primary Health Society
The issues influencing community health services and primary health care
RESEARCH ARTICLE

Obsessive compulsive disorder: integration of cognitive-behaviour therapy and clinical psychology care into the primary care context

Michael Kyrios A C , Richard Moulding A and Barbara Jones A B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Swinburne Psychological, Clinical, Health and Evaluation (SwinPsyCHE) Research Centre, Faculty of Life and Social Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Hawthorn, Vic. 3122, Australia.

B Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Vic. 3065, Australia.

C Corresponding author. Email: mkyrios@swin.edu.au

Australian Journal of Primary Health 16(2) 167-173 https://doi.org/10.1071/PY08074
Published: 19 May 2010

Abstract

In primary care, evidence-based psychological treatments for obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), such as cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), have not been readily available. We aimed to develop models of care for OCD that account for barriers to access and can be integrated into general practice settings. Multiple methodologies and sources were utilised, including literature reviews, a reference group, focus groups, interviews and questionnaire responses from consumers, psychologists and/or GPs. It was found that there were similarities and some differences among stakeholders in attitudes and knowledge about OCD, and views about treatment and assessment in primary care. Three models of care for patients with OCD were developed and integrated into a treatment program operating through a division of general practice. Participating GPs preferred referral to a specialist clinic, irrespective of participation in an educational program about OCD. Based on these findings, it is suggested that effective integration of specialist CBT treatments for OCD into primary care is possible if the needs and views of all stakeholders are accounted for.

Additional keywords: anxiety, general practice, mental health.


Acknowledgements

This research project was funded by Beyondblue, Victorian Centre of Excellence in Depression and Related Disorders. Thanks to the Anxiety Recovery Centre of Victoria (ARCVic) and to the participating Division of General Practice for their involvement in the project.


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