One-session cognitive behavior treatment for long-term frequent attenders in primary care: randomized controlled trial

Aim: The aim of the study was to find out, if a single cognitive behavior treatment (CBT) session for long-term frequent attenders in primary care affects the attendance frequency and mental well-being of the patients. Methods: Out of 193 long-term frequent attenders, 56 participated and were randomized to receive either a one-session CBT intervention or usual care. The groups were compared to each other regarding change in general practitioner visits and change in depressive symptoms, sense of coherence, somatoform symptoms and hypochondriacal anxiety at six months’ follow-up. Results: The attendance frequency decreased in both groups, but there was no difference between the groups. Changes in mental functioning did not differ between the groups. When patients with no mental health disorder were analyzed separately, the decrease in GP visits was significantly higher in the intervention group than in the control group (p = .004). Conclusion: A single session of CBT is not useful in reducing GP visits or improving mental well-being of long-term frequent attenders. Frequent attenders without a psychiatric disorder may benefit from this kind of intervention.