Characterizing primary care patients with posttraumatic stress disorder using electronic medical records: a retrospective cross-sectional study.

Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a mental health disorder with symptoms presenting after having experienced or witnessed a traumatic event. PTSD symptoms continue for more than 1 month after the event and negatively impact the health and social wellbeing of an individual. Primary care, including family doctors, nurse practitioners, and community paediatricians, are often the first point of healthcare for an individual. This study found that PTSD is diagnosed and managed in primary care. Patients with PTSD had comorbidities, substance use, and visited their primary care provider more frequently. Additionally, patients with PTSD often live in a community area that is experiencing high material and social deprivation. The presence of PTSD in primary care suggests the need for new and additional evidence-based resources to assist in managing this complex condition.