A Qualitative Evaluation of Mental Healthcare Service Delivery in the Western Visayas, Philippines

Abstract

Background: Substantive research documenting the diverse views of medical practitioners and consumers about mental health care delivery systems is limited. The present study, therefore, aimed to assess the views of mental health consumers and professionals on to access, availability, and delivery of mental health services.

Methodology: Data collection included individual interviews and focus group discussions with 84 key informants in Western Visayas, Philippines. Data analysis was completed through thematic analysis.

Results: Mental health consumers were not actively involved in their own treatment or rehabilitation. An
overwhelming number of consumers and providers believed that mental health is not a priority by the local or national government. Government and community stigma was also pervasive and a significant barrier to care.

Conclusion: There are gaps among the needs of mental health consumers, the resources available to
professionals to meet those needs, and the sustained initiative on the part of public officials to meet the needs of either consumers or professionals.