USAF Flight Surgeon Survey: Aircrew Mental Health Referrals and Satisfaction with Local Mental Health Providers Response

摘要

This study surveyed USAF flight surgeons world-wide regarding their experiences with aircrew needing mental health services. Participants were asked to review their caseload of active duty aircrew members over the past 12 months to answer survey items assessing: a. common psychological problems among aircrew leading to mental health referrals, b. referral rates and frequency of mental health referrals, c. modality of referrals, d. satisfaction with availability, timeliness and quality of mental health care provided to aircrew, as well as e. perceived difficulties with mental health provider response to referrals for aircrew mental health care. Out of 1504 aircrew members identified as needing mental health care, only 879 (58%) were referred to their local clinics, and reasons for lower referral rates were addressed. Common psychological problems leading to aircrew referrals included: marital difficulties, anxiety/depression related symptoms, alcohol related incidences, adjustment disorders, and operational stress. Difficulties with mental health provider responses included: lack of understanding of aeromedical policy, failure to coordinate with flight surgeons when placing an aviator on a psychiatric profile, and a general lack of understanding of the aircrew community and culture. Implications and recommendations are discussed to overcome identified obstacles and improve the partnership between flight surgeons and mental health providers at USAF installations.