35th AM (2024) - Poster Session-Penny for Your thoughts- Qualitative Analysis of Clinician Perceptions on Financial

Penny for Your thoughts- Qualitative Analysis of Clinician Perceptions on Financial

Pdf Summary

The study "Penny for Your Thoughts" explores clinician perceptions on financial control over patients with co-occurring mental illness and substance use disorders at the Connecticut Mental Health Center. Researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with 18 clinical staff members to understand their views on financial management issues facing this population.<br /><br />Key themes investigated included perceptions about patients' financial difficulties, mechanisms of financial control removal, the pros and cons of such removal, the clinician’s role in these decisions, money management relationships, and alternative financial assistance methods.<br /><br />Findings indicated that patients often face significant financial challenges, and stigma about their financial incapability influences clinical assessments. There was inconsistent knowledge and confidence among clinicians about financial control mechanisms like representative payeeship. Clinicians commonly identified more responsible substance use but not necessarily abstinence as a factor for returning financial control. The removal of financial control often led to patient frustration due to lost independence and strained relationships with conservators.<br /><br />The study reveals that specific diagnoses may be less critical than overall patient functioning when recommending financial control measures, although substance type used by the patient plays a role in considerations. Clinicians expressed concerns about the impact on family dynamics when financial control is exerted, particularly by family members.<br /><br />The study emphasizes the need for further research into alternative financial interventions that balance protection and autonomy for patients. It highlights the complexity of clinical staff perceptions of financial control, laying a foundation for future research to explore how financial control, patient outcomes, and autonomy interact. Ultimately, the research aims to inform policies and guidelines to support the financial management needs of individuals with co-occurring disorders while prioritizing patient autonomy and safety.

Keywords

financial control

mental illness

substance use disorders

Connecticut Mental Health Center

clinician perceptions

patient autonomy

financial management

representative payeeship

family dynamics

alternative financial interventions

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