A Mixed Studies Literature Review on Mental Health Perceived Needs of Family Physicians in Infectious Catastrophes
Year: 2024
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: Context: Catastrophes (e.g., pandemic, etc.) exert significant pressure on physicians as they are the frontlines of response. Family physicians9 pivotal role in prevention and crisis management exposes them to mental stressors due to the highly demanding circumstances. This can potentially compromise their ability to provide optimal patient care. Thus, understanding their perceived needs is essential to planning any interventions aimed at protecting their mental health. Objectives: To synthesize current knowledge about the perceived needs of family physicians regarding their mental health during infectious catastrophes. Study design and analysis: This mixed-method studies Literature Review follows the multi-phase Heyvaert et al.’s (2006) framework. A data-based convergent synthesis design is used for qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method studies to synthesize the descriptive results. Setting or Data set: Two major databases, i.e., OVID MEDLINE and PsycINFO, were searched to identify works relevant to the review topic. Population studied: This review includes English and Persian articles (1806-2023) focusing on the impacts of infectious crises on family physicians9 mental health in diverse primary care settings (e.g. long-term nursing homes, clinics), highlighting their perceived needs. Intervention/instrument: Data extraction was done using an Excel sheet, and quality appraisal was conducted with the Mixed Method Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Outcome Measures: Identification and categorization of the mental health needs as perceived by family physicians during infectious catastrophes. Results: 4191 articles were initially retrieved. After the title, abstract, and full-text review by the first author, thirty-five (35) relevant articles remained for quality appraisal. One article was excluded due to a lack of a clear research question, leaving 34 for data extraction. Employing thematic analysis, seven distinct themes emerged, which were then classified across four overarching levels: societal, institutional, organizational, and individual. Conclusion: While research on the perceived needs of family physicians has mostly focused on organizational factors, continuing professional development (CPD) could adequately respond to their needs when facing particularly challenging circumstances. CPD leaders can play a pivotal role in promoting and supporting the mental health of family physicians.
Source: The Annals of Family Medicine
Language: English
Topic: COVID-19 and Mental Health
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4404807847