English Summary
The POKAL Research Training Group (DFG-GRK 2621) focuses on "Predictors and Clinical Outcomes in Depression in Primary Care." Established in October 2021 in Munich, its mission is to equip future physicians and researchers with the skills to better address the complexities of diagnosing and treating depression within primary care settings. General practitioners play a pivotal role in this context, often being the first point of contact for patients and overseeing ongoing treatment. The presence of comorbid physical and psychological conditions can obscure symptoms and complicate therapy.
- Diagnosis: New algorithms will be developed to support its diagnosis. Patient- and GP-related factors will be considered in addition to established parameters. Additionally, a new approach for the detection of suicidal behaviour will be piloted and optimized.
- Treatment: Tools to help the psychoeducation of patients, their monitoring, the case management and the control of medication intake will be developed and evaluated.
- Implementation: Barriers and facilitators for the implementation of guideline-oriented treatment in primary care will be identified. Based on these findings we will develop and evaluate possible solutions.
- Early career scientists will be trained to advance clinical research in the primary care setting. The aim is to effectively support both health care providers and stakeholders and improve the future treatment of depression in Primary Care.
- POKAL provides a comprehensive qualification concept that enables doctoral candidates from relevant disciplines, as well as prospective GPs to receive a structured scientific education parallel to their clinical training. It allows graduate students to improve their clinical as well as scientific skills. The PIs are internationally renowned experts in the fields of Primary Care, Psychology, Psychiatry, Psychosomatic Medicine, Public Health and Information Technology.
Cohort 1 and 2
The program currently comprises 32 doctoral candidates (both cohortes) engaged in various distinct projects. These projects span various aspects of depression research in primary care, emphasizing interdisciplinary collaboration and clinical relevance.
Demonstrating a strong commitment to patient-centered care, the POKAL-Kolleg organizes various events to foster dialogue between healthcare professionals, researchers, patients, and the public. A notable example is the lecture series "Depression in Dialogue", which addresses diverse topics related to depression. These lectures are accessible to the public and serve as a platform for education and discussion.