Exploring barriers to accessing Primary Care Psychology services in Ireland

Proceedings of the 8th International Conference On Humanities, Psychology and Social Science

Year: 2018

DOI: http://www.doi.org/10.33422/8hps.2018.10.115

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Exploring barriers to accessing Primary Care Psychology services in Ireland

Sarah Summerville , Donál Fortune

ABSTRACT: 

Primary Care Psychology (PCP) services in Ireland employ a stepped-care approach to mental healthcare. Despite often being the first point of contact for mental health support, access to PCP can be tardy and restrictive. To date little is known about the specific barriers to access that exist at PCP level; and how these should be addressed to overcome the burden of accessibility for the community.This study seeks to assess barriers to accessing Child and Family PCP services in Ireland. Secondary to this, the research aims to elucidate how barriers impact upon service provision from a client perspective. Findings from this research will inform recommendations for enhanced access to Child and Family PCP in Ireland.