Development and pilot testing of a mental healthcare plan in Nepal
This study present the development and content of a mental healthcare plan and assess initial feasibility
Abstract
Background: Mental health service delivery models that are grounded in the local context are needed to address the substantial treatment gap in low- and middle-income countries.
Aims: To present the development, and content, of a mental healthcare plan (MHCP) in Nepal and assess initial feasibility.
Method: A mixed methods formative study was conducted. Routine monitoring and evaluation data, including client flow and reports of satisfaction, were obtained from patients (n = 135) during the pilot-testing phase in two health facilities.
Results: The resulting MHCP consists of 12 packages, divided over community, health facility and organisation platforms. Service implementation data support the real-life applicability of the MHCP, with reasonable treatment uptake. Key barriers were identified and addressed, namely dissatisfaction with privacy, perceived burden among health workers and high drop-out rates.
Conclusions: The MHCP follows a collaborative care model encompassing community and primary healthcare interventions.
This research is supported by the Department for International Development’s Programme for Improving Mental Health Care (PRIME) which is led by University of Cape Town
Citation
Jordans, M.J.D.; Luitel, N.P.; Pokhrel, P.; Patel, V. Development and pilot testing of a mental healthcare plan in Nepal. British Journal of Psychiatry (2015) 208 (s56) s21-s28. [DOI: 10.1192/bjp.bp.114.153718]
Links
Development and pilot testing of a mental healthcare plan in Nepal