Primary care experience in people with mental health conditions

Making Education Easy

Authors:

Cunningham R et al.

January 24, 2025

Summary:

Individuals with self-reported mental health conditions are less likely to report a positive experience of primary healthcare, according to a national survey from the New Zealand Health Quality & Safety Commission (August 2020-May 2022). A total of 201,650 responses were analysed, with 21% reporting a current diagnosed mental health condition. There was a consistent pattern of fewer positive experiences for those with mental health conditions across dimensions of care quality, age and gender groups, and this difference was amplified among Māori. The study authors recommended that interventions to improve healthcare should focus on care for Māori, with mental health conditions as a priority.

Comment:

Negative healthcare experiences for people with mental health conditions are associated with poor health outcomes. Systemic issues include the setup of health services and stigma which underpins these arrangements and provider care. Various solutions – including case managers, workforce training and population health programmes – have been proposed but more work is needed to build evidence in this area.

Reference: N Z Med J. 2024;137(1606):22-39.

Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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