Proposed solutions have been identified on a continuum of system, organisation and individual levels. At the system level these include the re-integration of physical and mental health services. Organisation level solutions include the provision of post-registration training and education and the introduction of specialist nurses into mental health settings. At the organisation and individual level, proposed solutions include the use of checklists and tools, the implementation of guidelines and policies, and a greater emphasis on health promotion intervention
The integration of physical and mental health services could be facilitated through better co-ordination and active engagement with the physical health of patients with mental illness through the development of GP-led clinics with health community teams attached to them. This would facilitate greater involvement of psychiatrists and the development of shared care to establish full integration between physical and mental health services.
Another solution is the provision of specialist nurses in mental health settings to support MNHs to assess and monitor the physical healthcare needs of their client population, where MHNs work more closely with their colleagues in general health settings. In addition, nurses identified a need for a more robust inclusive system, where clear guidance, information and policies are easily accessible. Other solutions have been identified as checklists and tools, including the Health Improvement Profile (HIP).
