To evaluate a quality improvement intervention to improve the screening and management (e.g., referral to psychiatric care) of common mental disorders in small independent Latino primary care practices serving patient populations of predominantly low-income Latino immigrants.

In seven practices, academic detailing and consultation/liaison psychiatry were first implemented (Stage 1) and then supplemented with appointment scheduling and reminders to primary care physicians (PCPs) by clinic staff (Stage 2). Acceptability and feasibility were assessed with independent patient samples during each stage.

Participating PCP found the interventions acceptable and noted that referrals to language-matched specialty care and case-by-case consultation on medication management were particularly beneficial. The academic detailing and consultation/liaison intervention (Stage 1) did not significantly affect PCP screening, management or patient satisfaction with care. When support for appointment scheduling and reminders (Stage 2) was added, however, PCP referral to psychiatric services increased (P=.04), and referred patients were significantly more likely to follow through and have more visits to mental health professionals (P=.04).

Improving the quality of mental health care in low-resourced primary care settings may require academic detailing and consultation/liaison psychiatric intervention supplemented with staff outreach to achieve meaningful improvement in the processes of care.