Biomedical subjects

C C Mercer

Publications and source records attributed to C C Mercer.

2 recordsLinked to original sources

PubMed2000

HIV-related services for persons with severe mental illness: policy and practice in New Hampshire community mental health.

Rates of HIV and HIV risk behaviors are elevated among people with severe mental illnesses (SMI). Little is known about the extent to which community mental health (CMH) centers screen, refer, and educate their clients regarding HIV and sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). The authors surveyed CMH administrators and clinicians in New Hampshire regarding HIV/STD policy, practices, knowledge, and attitudes. HIV/STD service availability varied, and the amount of services provided was unrelated to the prevalence of HIV and AIDS in that region. Clinicians were knowledgeable about general HIV information but lacked specific knowledge about HIV related to persons with SMI. CMH staff had positive attitudes about helping clients with HIV issues. Administrators were interested in receiving training. Policy leadership, CMH practice guidelines, and training are warranted in light of the pressing public health implications of HIV/STDs among people with SMI.

Adult↗

PubMed1998

Organizational guidelines for dual disorders programs.

Dual disorders--combined severe mental disorders and substance use disorders--were barely recognized two decades ago. As a result of the high prevalence and serious consequences of these disorders, they have received considerable attention over the last two decades. Knowledge has accumulated about dual disorders and their treatment, and treatment providers may now consider numerous options for clinical interventions and program designs. In this article, we offer guidelines concerning these options. We review the current knowledge about dual disorders and the results of recent research on the assessment and treatment of these disorders. We present treatment principles, recommendations on the components and organization of dual disorders programs, and suggestions for dealing with clinical issues that remain controversial. We conclude with comments on the demands of the managed care environment and the heightened importance of continued research in this area.

Counseling↗