Implementation of psychological triage outpatient clinic in an universitary hospital: an experience report

Abstract

Introduction: The role of psychologists in hospital settings encompasses specific characteristics that extend beyond the prevailing traditional clinical psychotherapy model, which continues to dominate public healthcare services. Given the necessity to reconsider the techniques employed in the hospital context, psychological triage emerges as a viable therapeutic intervention modality. It involves an evaluation of the psychological state of each individual, with the purpose of providing referrals and/or brief interventions. Objectives: This study aims to delineate the process of implementing this form of psychological care within an outpatient clinic at the University Hospital of the Federal University of Juiz de Fora (HU-UFJF). Experience Report: The implementation process of the triage outpatient clinic was led by two prominent psychologists from the hospital's psychology service and two psychology residents. Between March 2022 and February 2023, 117 patients were attended to, referred from various outpatient departments at HU-UFJF. With the implementation of the triage outpacientclinic, it was possible to establish a formal space to adress demands directed towards the psychology service; faster patient care; optimization of service time; greater patient adherence to psychology work; improved coordination and comprehension of the Regional Health Network (RAS). Obstacles encountered during the implementation of the outpatient clinic included patient non-compliance with scheduled appointments, underdevelopment of the mental health care network in the region, and a lack of understanding regarding the specificity of triage care. Conclusion: It is concluded that the triage outpatient clinic has achieved its objective of promoting patient reception, conducting in-depth investigations into their demands, and understanding the users' psychological situations. Consequently, it has facilitated more responsible referrals and brief interventions for specific demands.