| Learning Objective #1: Discuss one model of mental health care access | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Discuss the utility of mental health care access based on the culture accommodation model |
Design: Grounded theory was utilized to examine community and contextual factors related to MHS use. Triangulation with quantitative data was used to examine individual factors influencing use of MHS.
Sample, Setting, Years: The study was conducted from 2000-2003 in a southern metropolitan area. Subjects (n=117; male = 45 [38.5%] and female = 72 [61.5%]) were adults who voluntarily accessed publicly funded mental health services for the first time within the previous 12-months. A sub-sample of 24 subjects was used to collect qualitative data.
Concept or Variables studied: Pathways to access were examined through interview, and individual determinants of MHS use were examined using quantitative measures – demographic data, racial identity (Helms RAIS), attitudes toward psychological help (Fischer ATSPPHS-Revised), symptom identification, and length of illness prior to access.
Methods: Subjects were recruited at inpatient and outpatient MHS through MHS providers. Qualitative data were collected using an 11-item semi-structured interview guide. During the single interview, quantitative data were also collected. All data were analyzed using computer software for data management. A reiterative process until saturation of data was used to analyze qualitative data.
Findings: Subjects exhibited contextual and behavioral patterns that greatly influenced the path to MHS. Multiple internal and external barriers were factors including familiarity with services (p=.004) and racial attitudes (p=.04).
Conclusions/Implications: This study described a process that reflects reported experiences of a community of African American consumers. It provides a picture of the path to MHS use within an underserved and diverse group experiencing health disparities in the U.S. Understanding this process and examining its utility toward improving MHS access can build a bridge toward translating research into improved community care.
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Back to 15th International Nursing Research Congress
Sigma Theta Tau International
July 22-24, 2004