The family-focused practice of primary care clinicians: a case of missed opportunities

Background: Many patients who present to primary care settings with mental health concerns are parents with dependent children. However, little is known about the family-focused practices of these clinicians. Aim: To identify the family-focused practices of a group of primary care clinicians. Methods: A sequential mixed methodology was employed; 21 primary care clinicians completed the Family Focused Mental Health Practice Questionnaire and then participated in one of three focus groups. Results: Primary care clinicians do not commonly engage with patients about family issues though many acknowledged that family-focused practice was important. Some questioned whether being family focused was part of their role with other barriers related to funding. Most expressed a need for training, though some indicated that they would not engage in a family-focused manner nor be trained in this approach, unless it was compulsory. The study highlights the missed opportunity for family-focused practices in primary care settings. Conclusions: This study demonstrates the need for an authorising environment in which family-focused practices are not only supported but expected.