Review and analysis of the Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program.

Conclusions The MHNIP greatly benefits the health of people with mental illness. Larger and more representative sampling of consumers is needed, as well as intensive case studies to provide a more comprehensive and effective understanding of the benefits and limitations of the program as it evolves with the establishment of primary health networks.What is known about the topic? The MHNIP is designed to increase access to mental health care in primary care settings such as general practice clinics. Studies have reported favourable views about the program. However, research is limited and further investigation is required to demonstrate the strengths and limitations of the program.What does this paper add? All studies reviewed reported that the MHNIP had positive implications for people with severe and persistent mental illness. Qualitative research has been most prevalent for mental health nurse views and research on Health of the Nation Outcome Scale scores for recipients of the program. There is more research on system dimensions than on person-centred care. Mental health consumers, carers and families have been neglected in the establishment, engagement and evaluation of the MHNIP.What are the implications for practitioners? A more systematic, national-level research program into the MHNIP is required that is centred more on the experiences of people with mental illness. PMID: 28867005 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Australian Health Review - Category: Hospital Management Authors: Tags: Aust Health Rev Source Type: research