The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #64807

Matthew Johnsen, PhD, Jennifer Taub, PhD, and Christina Breault. Center for Mental Health Services Research, University of Massachusetts Medical School, 55 Lake Avenue North, Worcester, MA 01655, 508-856-8692, Matthew.Johnsen@umassmed.edu

Using information from interviews of primary care physicians (N=30) and case reviews (N=125)of records of children with behavioral problems, we explore factors affecting prescribing decisions related to psychopharmacological agents for children. The interviews and case reviews are geared to help understand what factors affect physicians' decisions to prescribe psychoactive medications to children and adolescents. This presentation will present results from 30 interviews, with a focus on clinical decision making, training, access to care and consultation, comfort with prescribing, and concerns of physicians. Issues of access to care and systemic problems will be addressed, along with policy and program recommendations to improve care for children and adolescents receiving psychoactive medications from primary care physicians.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will:
• Be able to describe typical practice settings of primary care physicians.
• Understand some of the factors that affect treatment and referral decisions generally.
• Understand how these factors relate to primary care physician decisions to treat children with behavioral problems using psychopharmacological agents.

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.