The Role of the Integrated Care Psychiatrist in Community Settings: A Survey of Psychiatrists’ Perspectives

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to describe the work and experiences of psychiatrists practicing integrated care in the community. METHODS: Consulting psychiatrists working in integrated care participated in an online survey about their experiences, opinions, and advice. Results were analyzed with quantitative and qualitative methods. RESULTS: A convenience sample of 52 psychiatrists from around the country who were working in integrated care responded. Respondents reported that they address a wide variety of clinical problems with a range of treatment strategies. Most reported positive experiences, which were summarized in four themes: working in a patient-centered care model, working with a team, the psychiatrist's role as educator, and opportunities for growth and innovation. CONCLUSIONS: The survey documented the experiences of psychiatrists working in integrated care. Findings suggest that integrated care teams allow consulting psychiatrists to leverage their expertise to reach a large number of patients in a variety of practice settings.