1. A day hospital was opened at the Hudson River State Hospital on July 2, 1956.2. The day center treats seriously ill psychotic and psychoneurotic patients, including those with dangerous tendencies.3. Since the opening, 508 patients have been admitted and the number under treatment is increasing steadily.4. Physicians have referred 36.4% of the patients, and 34.6% were self-referrals.5. There are few clinical contraindications to day hospital treatment.6. Patients and their families readily accept psychiatric treatment when offered on a day basis.7. Day care is a safe and effective method of treating many seriously ill, and is particularly valuable in that it maintains contact with home, family and community, and avoids hospital dependency.Abstract Teaser