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. 2014 Nov;25(4):1956-65.
doi: 10.1353/hpu.2014.0185.

Stigma and difficulty accessing medical care in a sample of adults with serious mental illness

Laysha Ostrow, Ron Manderscheid, Ramin Mojtabai

Stigma and difficulty accessing medical care in a sample of adults with serious mental illness

Laysha Ostrow et al. J Health Care Poor Underserved. 2014 Nov.

Abstract

Introduction: Wellness of people with mental illness is increasingly a public health priority. This study examined factors associated with difficulties receiving medical care in adults with mental illness.

Methods: In a sample of 1,670 adults with mental illness, we assessed difficulties in accessing medical care and stigma.

Results: A total of 465 (28%) participants reported difficulties in accessing medical care; 211 (13%) attributed difficulties in access to stigma. Lack of comprehensive medical care coverage and mental health symptoms were associated with increased odds of perceived difficulties in accessing medical care; personal empowerment was negatively associated with perceived difficulties attributed to stigma; education was positively associated.

Discussion: The findings highlight unmet need for medical care in this population and the need to recognize stigma as a barrier medical care. Interventions to empower patients and educate medical providers about wellness for people with serious mental illness could help to reduce barriers.

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