Access to family resources by families living with schizophrenia: a qualitative study of primary care workers in urban Beijing, China

Objectives This study aims to investigate the access to family resources by families living with schizophrenia from the perspective of primary care workers in Beijing, and provide evidence for appropriate and effective family resource coordination in primary care. Design Qualitative research using individual in-depth interviews to identify the access to family resources by families living with schizophrenia from the perspective of primary care workers. Setting This study was conducted from September to December 2021 in six urban community health service centres (CHSCs) in Beijing, China. Participants 3 general practitioners and 10 mental health doctors selected by purposive sampling method from 6 CHSCs in urban Beijing were interviewed. Results Five themes emerged from the insights of the primary care workers: most family resources are non-targeted for families living with schizophrenia, the publicity of family resources is difficult, burdensome application process of family resources, limited available community-based treatment options and stigma hindering effective communication between families and society. Conclusions It is necessary to simplify the application process of family resources and provide primary care workers with systematic training regarding family resources. More family resources and improved public attitudes should be promoted for patients with schizophrenia and their caregivers.

Automated summary

This study investigates the access to family resources by families living with schizophrenia from the perspective of primary care workers in Beijing. The findings reveal that most family resources are not targeted for families living with schizophrenia, there are difficulties in publicizing family resources, the application process for family resources is burdensome, community-based treatment options are limited, and stigma hinders effective communication between families and society. Simplifying the application process, providing systematic training for primary care workers, promoting more family resources, and improving public attitudes are recommended.