Addressing the Population Burden of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Problems: A Primary Care Model

A model for primary care child and adolescent mental health (CAMH) services is presented, the overall goal of which is to reduce population burden of CAMH problems. The theoretical orientation of the model is based on ecological systems theories. Features of the model include: local population outcome measures; small area service focus; primary-care-based CAMH specialists; a locally comprehensive service framework based in primary care (schools and general practices); and an explicit process of community engagement. The model is illustrated by reference to a primary care CAMH service (currently the subject of a controlled trial) in Flintshire, North Wales.