What role do you think psychiatrists play in the overall healthcare system?

"I know that mental health is often a very overlooked piece from care providers that see patients. The fact that mental health is consistently on the top of healthcare needs lists nationwide really proves this. I see psychiatry as a vital role in working with all primary care specialties to provide services for patients that need a diagnosis and treatment. I would come to your psychiatry residency program ready and willing to help educate primary care providers on the role that I can help play with their patients that need mental health services."

An ideal answer to this question will both talk about your thoughts on what part psychiatry plays in the overall healthcare system and how you can help make that prophecy come true as a resident through a true team effort. As you answer, be sure to highlight how mental health is an extension of primary care and plays a critical role in working with other medical specialties like family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, neurology, and others.