MDD Minds Master Faculty Gathers for 2nd Meeting, Outlining a Transformative Path Forward
Date: July 31, 2023 | Location: Online Video Conference
We're excited to share an insightful update from the recent gathering of the MDD Minds Master Faculty. On July 31st, 2023, our esteemed Master Faculty members convened for the project's 2nd meeting, conducted through a dynamic online video conference. This meeting marked a significant milestone as we collectively delved into key discussions, progress updates, and strategic planning to shape the course's future trajectory.
A Glimpse into the Meeting's Highlights:
1. Unveiling of Learning Platform and Module 1:
Our dedicated Steering Committee shared exciting updates on Phase 2 of the project.
During the meeting, we introduced the completed version of Module 1 and shared how the learner’s journey on the learning platform looks like, reflecting the collaborative efforts and expertise of our Master Faculty.
2. A Glimpse into the Future: Milestones and Phases:
The Steering Committee provided an insightful overview of crucial milestones and dates on our project roadmap. This clarity ensures that we're all on the same page as we march ahead. We also handled an outline of the upcoming phases, including the 7-modules online course, the Train the Trainer and Performance in Practice phases.
3. Engaging Conversations: Shaping Our Path:
Our Master Faculty members actively engaged in vibrant discussions that guided the design and components of each project phase. These collaborative conversations underscore our commitment to creating an impactful and meaningful educational experience for all the learners.
4. Shared Responsibility: Workload Distribution for Success:
Understanding that effective teamwork is essential, we organized the workload distribution for the forthcoming phases. This strategic approach ensures that our resources are optimally utilized, promoting seamless progress.
5. Face-to-Face Gathering: A Next-Level Connection:
An exciting announcement emerged from the meeting as the Master Faculty collectively decided to convene in person during the upcoming WONCA World Conference in Sydney 2023. This in-person interaction promises to further enrich collaboration and propel the project forward.
Our 2nd Master Faculty meeting was an embodiment of collaboration and dedication. As we forge ahead into the next phases of this transformative journey, we remain resolute in our mission to elevate mental health education and make a lasting impact in the field.
MDD Minds for Primary Care | FAQS
Q. What is MDD Minds?
MDD stands for Major Depressive Disorder. WONCA is implementing MDD Minds for Primary Care Project, a 30-month project, in collaboration with the WONCA Working Party on Mental Health, and Mosaica Solutions.
Q. What is the goal of the project?
The overall goal of this program is to enhance the quality of care for major depressive disorders delivered by family doctors in Africa/Middle East, Asia, and Latin America.
Q. Why is it important?
Depression is a global issue, as it is now the leading cause of disability worldwide. Unfortunately, between 50% and 90% of people suffering from depression are not diagnosed or treated properly. The integration of mental health care into primary care, particularly within the field of family medicine, is a priority for international agencies.
The MDD Minds Project aims to strengthen physicians’ competencies and confidence in managing mental health problems while enabling shared decision-making for treating major depressive disorders.
Q. Who are the beneficiaries of the project?
The ultimate beneficiaries are the patients. Their family doctor will acquire knowledge, develop skills, and be empowered in the diagnosis and management of MDD.
Q. How do you plan to achieve the goal?
By implementing a training course together with a train-the-trainer program and a performance in practice scheme to apply the acquired knowledge and skills.
The training is aimed to increase physician competence in identifying depression and anxiety, educating patients, and employing shared decision-making, selecting appropriate pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic therapy, communicating with specialists in making referrals, and follow-up with patients to revaluate care.
Because of this, the trained physicians will be better equipped to help patients suffering from depression and anxiety.
Q. How is the project funded?
The funds come from an unrestricted educational grant from Pfizer.
Q. Has the donor any influence on the project?
No, the main characteristic of an unrestricted grant is that the donor, in this case Pfizer, cannot influence any part or stage of the project (including its design, development, implementation, monitoring and dissemination phases), thus always guaranteeing its complete independency and autonomy.