Author(s): Dr. Riyadh Shiltagh Al-Rudaini, Dr. Zaid Wajih Awad, Dr. Mona Attalla and Dr. Faris Al-lami

Abstract: The study was conducted to evaluate the integration of mental health and psychosocial support services (MHPSS) in primary health care centers (PHCCs) in Iraq. The evaluation aimed to understand existing documentation and information management systems, identify the prevalence of mental health conditions, assess staff capacity, evaluate services provided, assess medication availability, understand referral mechanisms, and identify challenges in integrating MHPSS services into PHCC. The evaluation was carried out using a cross-sectional study design and data was collected through interviews and the use of a toolkit developed by the World Health Organization and the High Commissioner of the United Nations for Refugees. The assessment highlighted variations in workload among PHCCs, deficiencies in documentation and recordkeeping, prevalence of specific mental health disorders, deficiencies in staff training and diagnostic capabilities, shortages of psychotropic medications, challenges in referral systems, and lack of privacy in service provision. The assessment provided valuable information on the strengths, weaknesses, and challenges of integrating MHPSS services into PHCCs and made recommendations to improve service delivery and address mental health care gaps. The recommendations included the dissemination of mental health concepts, the provision of the necessary resources, the strengthening of staff capacity, the improvement of referral mechanisms, the integration of mental health services into public health policies, ensuring access to psychotropic medications, investing in mental health training opportunities, strengthening the health information system and research, and addressing the gap in mental health professionals within the PHCC. In conclusion, this assessment contributes to the evidence base to improve the delivery of MHPSS and informs future planning off mental health services in Iraq.

DOI: 10.33545/comed.2024.v7.i2a.303