Integrating service user knowledge in the development of 'good mental health care': challenges and opportunities in low and middle income countries
Year: 2013
Type: article
Abstract: Service user involvement is promoted worldwide as a strategy to have a more needs-based and more responsive mental healthcare. However, there is limited knowledge about the role of service users in low and middle income countries. In this paper, we explore the potential of service user involvement in developing ?good? mental healthcare in LMICs. This is done using Transition Theory, by outlining barriers and opportunities in terms of the dominant structure, culture and practice of a mental healthcare system and how they relate to integration of service user knowledge. Current situations are described thereby providing insight into regime factors that hamper knowledge integration. Some important hampering factors include: the lack of mental health policy, legislation and resources, stigma and power differences between professionals and service users. In addition, the envisioned changes are elaborated upon, signifying identified facilitators and possible opportunities for change at the niche level and landscape level. Opportunities for integration of service user knowledge might be found in adopting rights-based, wellbeing-oriented approaches thereby connecting to broader societal trends. In addition, adopting strategies of deepening, broadening and scaling-up of current initiatives at the niche level might enhance shift towards integration of service user knowledge.
Source: VU Research Portal
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W2732628180