Open AccessPerspectives on the Implementation of Screening and Treatment for Depression and Alcohol Use Disorder in Primary Care in Colombia
Author(s) -
Chelsea Shan,
Sophia M. Bartels,
Magda Cepeda,
Sergio M. Alcocer Martínez De Castro,
Leonardo Cubillos,
Fernando Süárez-Obando,
Melissa J. Williams,
Carlos Gómez Restrepo,
María Victoria Uribe,
Lisa A. Marsch,
William C. Torrey
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
community mental health journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.639
H-Index - 66
eISSN - 1573-2789
pISSN - 0010-3853
DOI - 10.1007/s10597-021-00781-1
Subject(s) - alcohol use disorder , medicine , brief intervention , psychiatry , depression (economics) , mental health , stigma (botany) , qualitative research , population , intervention (counseling) , nursing , family medicine , environmental health , alcohol , social science , biochemistry , chemistry , sociology , economics , macroeconomics
Depression and alcohol use disorder (AUD) greatly contribute to the burden of disease worldwide, and have large impact on Colombia's population. In this study, a qualitative analysis evaluates the implementation of a technology-supported model for screening, decision support, and digital therapy for depression and AUD in Colombian primary care clinics. Patient, provider, and administrator interviews were conducted, exploring attitudes towards depression and AUD, attitudes towards technology, and implementation successes and challenges. Researchers used qualitative methods to analyze interview themes. Despite stigma around depression and AUD, the model improved provider capacity to diagnose and manage patients, helped patients feel supported, and provided useful prevalence data for administrators. Challenges included limited provider time and questions about sustainability. The implementation facilitated the identification, diagnosis, and care of patients with depression and AUD. There is ongoing need to decrease stigma, create stronger networks of mental health professionals, and transition intervention ownership to the healthcare center.