Provision of Mental Health Services through Community Partnership

Abstract

Background -The World Health Organization signalled the urgent need for provision of community mental health services at its Global Forum for Community Mental Health. This project was innovated to utilise the already available state services to provide better mental health services through community partnership. Project was carried out in the catchment area for admissions to Unit 06 of National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Angoda from the Colombo District. Aims- The aim of this project was to minimize treatment gap that is rampant in provision of mental health care services. Deinstitutionalization of the mentally ill is also intended. Methods- A community mental Health team is established under the Consultant Psychiatrist consisting of Medical Officer-Mental Health (MOMH), Community Psychiatric Nurse (CPN), Psychiatric Social Worker (PSW) and Occupational Therapist. The community is involved in planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of the programme. Community meetings were held in selected areas. Community Volunteers were recruited and a training done. The Volunteers went into the community and started active case detection. Upon new case detection the team consisting of above, visited to evaluate and plan treatment. The multitude of satellite clinics established are used to provide treatment and where necessary Depot injections are provided monthly at home. All patients are reviewed periodically by the MOOMH. CPNN and PSWW ensure tracking of all follow up patients with the aid of the volunteers. Volunteers themselves are assembled periodically for feedback and appreciation. Results- Feedback from the community and clients indicate satisfaction. Clients are functioning in the community while on treatment and unnecessary admissions have been prevented. Community Volunteers are bringing in new clients to NIMH and other clinics for receiving of treatment. Conclusions- Such a community partnership in provision of mental health care is greatly serving to reduce the treatment gap.