Attitude of Primary Healthcare Physicians to Mental Illness in Bahrain

Background: Primary care physicians (PCPs) are the front line treatment providers in Bahrain. They provide care to patients with various medical conditions, including mental health problems. This is the first study to examine the attitudes of PCPs toward psychiatrically ill patients to be done in Bahrain. Objectives: To assess the attitude of PCPs towards psychiatrically ill patients in Bahrain and their management. Methods: A self- administered questionnaire was distributed to all PCPs working in Ministry of Health primary care centers. This cross-sectional survey collated demographic details, occupational variables and the responses of physicians to 25 statements regarding the management of mentally ill patients. Results: There was a positive, albeit varying, response by primary care physicians to most of the items on the questionnaire. For instance, female PCPs reported having less difficulty talking sensibly with someone who is mentally ill than male PCPs. In contrast to female PCPs, male PCPs are more likely to believe that mental illness is not inherited. The report also indicates that PCPs who have completed the Family Physicians Residency Programme (FPRP) are less likely to refer every psychiatric patient to a hospital specialist than General Practitioners (GPs). The term GP refers to those who were not involved with the FPRP program as of the time of this survey. Conclusion: Although an overall positive attitude was found towards the mentally ill, as assessed by this questionnaire, several of the items reporting negative attitudes may need to be considered in the future planning of psychiatric training programs for primary care physicians.