When asked to rate a list of items most important in the repertoire of a general psychiatrist, respondents gave the following items the highest ratings:

1 Effectively listen to patients

2 Evaluate and manage psychiatric medications

2 Evaluate and treat psychotic disorders

4 Evaluate and treat mood disorders

4 Understand and adhere to therapeutic boundaries in psychiatric treatment

6 Evaluate need for psychiatric hospitalization or other levels of care

7 Assess potential for suicide, homicide, and violence

7 Evaluate and treat anxiety disorders

9 Evaluate and manage psychiatric emergencies

10 Provide patient and family evaluation

Source: Survey conducted by the APA Committee on Workforce Issues, 1999