Psychology and Psychiatry : Integrating Medical Practice

In the traditional medical setting, clinical psychology and psychiatry have operated independently, but clinicians now recognise that psychologists and psychiatrists working together can maximise the effectiveness of treatment and improve quality of life for individuals and families. Up to 25% of medical patients present with significant psychological problems and unless practice is integrated, these problems often remain untreated. An integrated practice and training allows clinicians to recognise and treat psychological problems, thereby reducing the economic and social costs associated with such illness. In addition, the input of psychology and psychiatry is now understood to have a role in disease progress and medical management as well as in prevention and health promotion. * Compares the disciplines of clinical psychology and psychiatry, and their practice in medical environments * Provides a "how to" and "what to expect" for clinicians who use the services of psychologists and psychiatrists * Forecasts the development and growth of this approach in medical, social and policy contexts * Offers professional development guidance to psychologists and psychiatrists working outside the medical arena