PT - JOURNAL ARTICLE AU - Christabel Owens AU - Keith R Lloyd AU - John Campbell TI - Access to health care prior to suicide: findings from a psychological autopsy study. DP - 2004 Apr 01 TA - British Journal of General Practice PG - 279--281 VI - 54 IP - 501 4099 - http://bjgp.org/content/54/501/279.short 4100 - http://bjgp.org/content/54/501/279.full SO - Br J Gen Pract2004 Apr 01; 54 AB - Previous research has suggested that progress towards suicide reduction targets may be achieved by improving the ability of general practitioners to recognise and treat mental illness. Using data from a study of suicide completers who were not in contact with specialist mental health services, we found that the rate of detection and treatment of mental health problems in primary care was high. The major barrier to receipt of care for mental health problems prior to suicide was non-consultation. The study also shows that detection and management in primary care does not necessarily result in prevention of suicide. Implications for public education, access to primary care services and the potential for suicide prevention are considered.