Primary psychosomatic management in general practice. Results of a German nationwide demonstration project of quality assurance
Fritzsche, K.; Sandholzer, H.; Brucks, U.; Campagnolo, I.; Cierpka, M.; Deter, H.C.; Härter, M.; Höger, C.; Richter, R.; Schmidt, B.; Wirsching, M.
Zeitschrift für Arztliche Fortbildung und Qualitatssicherung 94(2): 127-131
2000
ISSN/ISBN: 1431-7621 PMID: 10782508 Document Number: 518041
In the frame of a national demonstration program, psychosocial care of patients with psychological and psychosomatic problems were assessed. General practitioners (n = 191) from six regions participated in the study. 1341 treatment episodes of patients with predominately psychosocial symptoms were documented. Anxiety (62%), depression (51%) and marital/family conflicts (44%) were the most frequent symptoms. Somatic treatment and psychosocial intervention were offered equally. Patients with psychosocial treatment achieved better results. Partners and family members were rarely integrated into therapy. The procedures employed to improve outcome were quality circles, family-orientated case conferences, consultation services and collaborative groups.