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International Journal of Mental Health Systems

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Open Access 01-12-2020 | Research

Development of mental healthcare in Cambodia: barriers and opportunities

Authors: Sarah J. Parry, Nil Ean, Shirley P. Sinclair, Ewan Wilkinson

Published in: International Journal of Mental Health Systems | Issue 1/2020

Abstract

Background

Despite the increasing recognition globally of the importance of mental health for sustainable development, significant barriers remain to developing mental health services in low- and middle-income countries. This study explored the particular barriers and opportunities for developing mental health services in Cambodia and how these compared with those described in other low- and middle-income countries.

Methods

For this qualitative study, 18 experienced mental health professionals from different disciplines were selected using purposive sampling. Semi-structured interviews were carried out in Phnom Penh and thematic analysis of the data was completed.

Results

Five key themes were identified: (1) Prioritising mental health in Cambodia, (2) Strengthening collaborations between mental health stakeholders, (3) Developing a mental healthcare model appropriate for the Cambodian culture and context, (4) Increasing the quantity and (5) Improving the quality of mental healthcare. All five themes were referred to by all 18 participants and the two most repeated themes were (2) Strengthening collaborations and (5) Improving the quality of mental healthcare.

Conclusions

The themes identified in this study both corroborate previous barriers identified to developing mental health services in low- and middle-income countries and shed new light on opportunities of particular importance in Cambodia. Strengthening collaborations between key stakeholders in mental health and prioritising the quality of mental health education, training and service provision were both cited as being significant opportunities for enhancing the development of mental health services in Cambodia. These have not been widely described before as being important factors.

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Title: Development of mental healthcare in Cambodia: barriers and opportunities
Authors: Sarah J. Parry
Nil Ean
Shirley P. Sinclair
Ewan Wilkinson
Publication date: 01-12-2020
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: International Journal of Mental Health Systems / Issue 1/2020
Electronic ISSN: 1752-4458
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13033-020-00385-4

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Development of mental healthcare in Cambodia: barriers and opportunities

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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