Effects of the Mental Health Law on Peruvian Primary Care Physicians: A Cross-Sectional Study on Knowledge of Major Depressive Disorder

Objective: The objective was to evaluate the level of knowledge of primary care physicians in Lambayeque, Peru, regarding the diagnosis and treatment of Major Depressive Disorder. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 106 primary care physicians in Lambayeque, Peru. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire assessing Major Depressive Disorder diagnosis and treatment knowledge. Physicians’ knowledge levels were categorized as inadequate, adequate, or excellent. Poisson regression models were employed to identify factors associated with adequate knowledge. Results: The response rate was 81.21%. Only 36.79% of physicians demonstrated adequate knowledge, with none achieving excellent knowledge. The median score was 6 (IQR: 5-7). Mental health training, which may reflect the new law’s implementation, was significantly associated with higher knowledge levels (PR: 2.42, 95% CI: 1.02 to 5.10). Other factors were not significantly associated with knowledge levels. Conclusions: The proportion of primary care physicians with adequate Major Depressive Disorder knowledge has doubled since 2014, indicating a positive effect of the mental health law. However, to increase this number, continuous professional development programs are needed.