Management of mood disorders by osteopaths in New Zealand: A survey of current clinical practice

BackgroundEarly detection of mood disorders in primary health care can help prevent progression. In this context, a primary health care practitioner such as an osteopath may play an important role.ObjectiveThe purpose of the study was to explore how a population of osteopaths in New Zealand with internet access identify, assess and manage clients with mood disorders and to describe their previous education and further educational needs related to mood disorders.MethodsThe study was done using mixed methods design combining quantitative and qualitative research designs. An online survey was used for this purpose. This article reports the quantitative analysis of the survey.ParticipantsUsing convenience sampling, a total of 216 New Zealand registered osteopaths whose email addresses was publicly available were invited to complete the online survey.ResultsSixty two respondents (29%) completed the survey. Osteopathic practitioners in New Zealand who participated in the study reported that they ‘often’ come across clients with a history of mood disorders. While questioning clients was the preferred assessment tool, many respondents reported difficulties in managing clients with mood disorders, caused in part by their lack of specific education about mood disorders.ConclusionFurther education for New Zealand osteopaths about mood disorders is recommended, which has the potential to improve health outcomes for people experiencing mood disorders.