A shortage of psychiatrists is forcing Indiana mental health centers to hire temporary physicians to help meet patients' needs.

But some doctors say the temporary hires aren't a good solution because mental health patients need consistent care and to build relationships with their medical providers. They say short-term doctors don't fill that need.

A recent study shows the number of U.S. psychiatrists rose 15.2 percent between 1990 and 1999, compared with a 37 percent spike in the number of psychologists.

Experts say funding cuts have led medical schools to offer fewer residencies and cut training opportunities and forced many mental health facilities to merge or close.

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Information from: South Bend Tribune, http://www.southbendtribune.com