J Korean Neuropsychiatr Assoc.  2021 Feb;60(1):70-77. 10.4306/jknpa.2021.60.1.70.

Roles of Psychiatrists in Mental Health Services: The Gwangju Mental Health Project “Mind Doctor”

• Jhon M
• Wang SY
• Kim SY
• Lee JY
• Kim JM
• Shin IS
• Kim SW

• KMID: 2513546
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.4306/jknpa.2021.60.1.70

Abstract

Objectives
The treatment rate for mental illness is low in Korea (22%) compared to Western countries (40–50%). Thus, Gwangju city commenced a mental health project termed “Mind Doctor” in 2016. Psychiatrists regularly visit mental health centers to provide services, including counseling. This paper summarizes the achievements and significance of the project.
Methods
The project has been in progress for four years. This study evaluated 7,483 clients assisted by 322 center staff and 55 participating psychiatrists. The characteristics of the mental health center and addiction management center clients were identified. The center staff opinions and satisfaction were analyzed.
Results
Psychiatrists placed in community mental health services played a variety of roles as counselors, supervisors, lecturers, and program organizers. During the time since the project commenced, referral rates to mental health clinics after in-center counseling increased from 9.4% to 41.6%. Half of the psychiatrists worked in psychiatric hospitals (45.5%), and were in their 30s (43.6%). Of those seen by psychiatrists in mental health centers, 42% were aged under 30 years, and almost half were male (46%). Most clients were satisfied with their consultations (90%) and were willing to recommend the project to others (88%). More than 85% of center staff responded positively to the project, particularly in 2019.
Conclusion
“Mind Doctor” readily identified the mental problems of community residents and provided smooth referrals to mental health clinics. Collaboration between the psychiatrists and mental health workers in mental health centers contributed to mental health promotion and early intervention to treat mental problems.

Keyword

Community mental health services; Psychiatry; Mental disorders; Secondary prevention; Referral and consultation