European guidelines for training in consultation–liaison psychiatry and psychosomatics: Report of the EACLPP Workgroup on Training in Consultation–Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatics

Abstract 

Objective

The European Association of Consultation–Liaison Psychiatry and Psychosomatics (EACLPP) has organized a workgroup to establish consensus on the contents and organization of training in consultation–liaison (C–L) for psychiatric and psychosomatic residents.

Methods

Initially, a survey among experts has been conducted to assess the status quo of training in C–L in different European countries. In several consensus meetings, the workgroup discussed aims, core contents, and organizational issues of standards of training in C–L. Twenty C–L specialists in 14 European countries participated in a Delphi procedure answering a detailed consensus checklist, which included different topics under discussion.

Results

Consensus on the following issues has been obtained: (1) all residents in psychiatry or psychosomatics should be exposed to C–L work as part of their clinical experience; (2) a minimum of 6 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) rotation to a C–L department should take place on the second part of residency; (3) advanced training should last for at least 12 months; (4) supervision of trainees should be clearly defined and organized; and (5) trainees should acquire knowledge and skills on the following: (a) assessment and management of psychiatric and psychosomatic disorders or situations (e.g., suicide/self-harm, somatization, chronic pain and psychiatric disorders, and abnormal illness behavior in somatically ill patients); (b) crisis intervention and psychotherapy methods appropriate for medically ill patients; (c) psychopharmacology in physically ill patients; (d) communication with severely ill patients and dying patients, as well as with medical staff; (e) promotion of coordination of care for complex patients across several disciplines; and (f) organization of C–L service in relation to general hospital and/or primary care.

In addition, the workgroup elaborated recommendations on the form of training and on assessment of competency.

Conclusion

This document is a first step towards establishing recognized training in C–L psychiatry and psychosomatics across the European Union.

Keywords: Consultation–liaison psychiatry, Education, Guidelines, Psychosomatics, Residency, Training