Perceived Roles and Functions of Psychiatry Medical Staff in Two Melbourne Services

Objectives: To examine (1) perceived roles and functions of psychiatry medical staff in two multidisciplinary teams at two state-funded health services, a community mental health clinic at a general public psychiatry service and an alcohol and drug service, and (2) factors influencing these roles and functions. Method: Data were obtained from focus groups, key informant interviews, participant observation and document review. Results: Clinical roles were well conceptualised in both services, with good concordance between medical and non-medical staff. Team and leadership roles, however, were not well conceptualised. Service-related factors influenced clinical and many other roles. Power and professional cultural differences between medical and non-medical staff influenced team and leadership roles. Conclusions: Addressing lack of role clarity and teaching interpersonal and team leadership skills to psychiatry medical staff are likely to improve multidisciplinary team functioning for psychiatrists in these settings.