[Management of patients with hepatitis C by French psychologists and psychiatrists: a practical investigation]. / Prise en charge des patients atteints d'hépatites C par les psychiatres et les psychologues: une enquête de pratique.

ABSTRACT

INTRODUCTION: A first part of this survey showed that up to 19% of patients with hepatitis C virus did not receive optimal treatment because of a psychiatric problem (psychiatric disorders or addictive behaviours) and that less than 50% of the managing clinicians worked with a psychiatrist or a psychologist in these cases. The aim of the second part of the survey was to describe the current practices provided by the psychiatrists and the psychologists to HCV infected patients as well as the knowledge and expectations of professionals in this area. PATIENTS AND METHODS: Forty-seven psychiatrists and 43 psychologists who were or were not working with French reference poles for hepatitis C virus responded to a questionnaire of their practices. RESULTS: Analysis of the 90 questionnaires showed that psychiatric and/or psychological care was not systematic. Psychiatrists and psychologists should be given more information and specific training about this topic. CONCLUSION: Psychiatric and psychological care of chronic hepatitis C virus infected patients should be improved. French reference poles should also become "references" for psychiatric care.