Embedding new models of mental health care in primary care
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Mental health IN the Deep EnD (MINDED) pilot evaluation: embedding a clinical psychologist in primary care to improve mental health care for patients living in the most socioeconomically disadvantaged communities within the North East & North Cumbria.
IRAS ID
315134
Contact name
Sarah Sowden
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Newcastle University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 5 months, 28 days
Research summary
We aim to evaluate the implementation of MINDED (Mental Health IN the Deep EnD): an intervention embedding a GP-based psychology team within general practice by interviewing NHS patients and staff working in primary care and in the wider regional healthcare system. Mental ill-health comprises a third of GP (general practitioner) appointments. Research suggests many GPs’ high workloads prevent them from providing good-quality mental health care. GP workloads and patients’ mental health needs are greatest in areas of severe socio-economic deprivation. Further, the risks of diagnosing poverty-related distress as mental illness are a concern for GPs working in areas of deprivation as this may lead to inappropriate treatment.
The North East and North Cumbria (NENC) region has developed a Deep End Network of practices where between 58-96% of registered patients live in the most deprived neighbourhoods in the country. The NENC has the third highest rates of common mental conditions in England. In the MINDED intervention, patients with common mental health problems are offered 30-minute consultations with a GP-based psychologist, who will conduct a thorough assessment and provide patients with time to explore their problems and start to identify solutions.
We aim to explore the feasibility and acceptability, for patients and staff working in primary care and in the wider regional healthcare system, of embedding a GP-based psychology team in general practice in areas of severe socioeconomic deprivation. The research will evaluate the implementation of MINDED, i) working with practices that have expressed an interest, ii) exploring the broadening of mental health in the Deep End, iii) examining changes to the provision of mental health care with staff and professionals in primary care in the region.
Funding is being provided by the NHS to employ mental health professionals directly.REC name
North East - Newcastle & North Tyneside 2 Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
22/NE/0134
Date of REC Opinion
29 Sep 2022
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion