Recommendations to strengthen hybrid mental health policy in primary care services in Chile

Abstract

This article presents the main results of a qualitative study proposing guidelines for a hybrid public policy on mental health at the primary care level that faces the challenge of improving access under conditions of quality. The empirical evidence was constructed from semistructured interviews with users, decision makers, and professionals from Chile's central, regional, and local healthcare levels and a review of specialized literature. The study shows that strengthening a hybrid telehealth policy at the primary care level is an outstanding strategy to contribute to reduce accessibility, acceptability, and availability barriers. Yet, to be effective, it is necessary to take on some guidelines in terms of remote care management in Primary Healthcare centers, training of professionals, and skill building of civil servants in the use of technology, regulatory framework, infrastructure and technology; financing; inclusion of the user's perspective; and clinical guidelines and technical standards for hybrid care. The leadership of the Ministry of Health is fundamental to promote relevant regulation and the coordination and active participation of different stakeholders.