Development and pilot testing of a mental healthcare plan in Nepal
Background Mental health service delivery models that are grounded in the local context are needed to address the substantial treatment gap in low and middle income countries. Aims To present the development, and content, of a mental healthcare plan (MHCP) in Nepal and assess initial feasibility. Method A mixed methods formative study was conducted. Routine monitoring and evaluation data, including client flow and reports of satisfaction, were obtained from patients (n 135) during the pilot testing phase in two health facilities. Results The resulting MHCP consists of 12 packages, divided over community, health facility and organisation platforms. Service implementation data support the real life applicability of the MHCP, with reasonable treatment uptake. Key barriers were identified and addressed, namely dissatisfaction with privacy, perceived burden among health workers and high drop out rates. Conclusions The MHCP follows a collaborative care model encompassing community and primary healthcare interventions.
British Journal of Psychiatry