The Role of Education on Dual Disorders: A Discussion Paper. (December 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Szerman, Nestor; Marín-Navarrete, Rodrigo; Martínez-Raga, José
• Is Part Of: Addictive disorders & their treatment. Volume 16:Number 4(2017)
• Publication Date: 2017-12
• Subjects: dual disorders -- co-occurring disorder -- education -- addiction training; Substance abuse -- Periodicals; Substance abuse -- Treatment -- Periodicals; 616.86005
• DOI: 10.1097/ADT.0000000000000114
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1531-5754

Abstract

Abstract : Background: The heterogeneity of the knowledge, skills, and attitudes, in health professionals involved in treating patients with Dual Disorders (DDs), generate a negative impact in the effectiveness of the treatment programs. This situation has been associated with the limitations of the undergraduate, postgraduate, and continuing professional education training programs. The goal of this review is to provide an overview on some concepts involved in the management of patients with DDs, and to describe some initiatives that have been developed to address the lack of mental health professional training. Materials and Methods: To integrate a theoretical and conceptual base, a systematic review was conducted in specialized databases such as PUBMED, EBSCO, PsycINFO, Google Scholar, and institutional mental health collections. Results: There is a lack of scientific evidence reporting the implementation and adoption of training programs for health professionals in the treatment of Substance Use Disorders. Conclusions: Most of the scientific literature reports the need to improve the curriculum in undergraduate physician programs. Despite the scientific findings, the training programs do not emphasize on the new conceptualization of the DDs.