In order for the proposed project to be successful, buy-in from current staff will be needed to include the providers. The first education that may be needed is developing an education in-service that gives an overview of mental health and integration into primary care. It is important that staff understands the importance of the project and the overarching outcomes the project may set in motion. Research have found that at least 70% of visits to PCPs may have an underlying mental health issue that have not been addressed or treated especially in patients with long term major illnesses such as diabetes or heart disease (Olsen, 2014). One of the qualities of an astute leader is to recognize the importance for staff to identify significance and importance of their work in the workplace (Porter-O’Grady & Malloch, …show more content…
By observing staff and interactions with patients as they are being seen, it is possible to gain a basic understanding of staff and patients that frequently visit the practice. With utilizing the anthropologist persona strategies, it may be possible to determine which of the two proposed screening tools for use will best fit for the current practice. Many times, we look at research and findings to determine the best tool to use. It is important to find the right tool for the right practice. The goal of the project is to have the ability to establish mental health screening and a resource data base for continued mental health care that may not otherwise be identified prior to a crisis episode. According to Olsen (2014), several PCPs are integrating mental health screening into their practice. Research has found that patients are more likely to discuss changes in mental health status especially depressions with a trustworthy provider (Olsen, 2014). By discussing their issues with their PCP during their primary care visit, the PCP has the opportunity to initiate treatment. Initial treatment can be consulting with a mental health provider via phone to discuss initial treatment and follow up treatment needed. The project is