The authors report on a new system of care in which all patients who
require psychiatric hospitalization are admitted to a day hospital with an
inn and an intensive care unit. Data on use of services, length of stay,
recidivism, security, medical emergencies, staff accidents, and seclusion
and restraint over a 4-year period suggest that the new delivery system
provides care which is at least as effective as the previous system of
care. Evidence is presented that the new system offers certain advantages,
including less seclusion and restraint, fewer episodes of escape, and
substantial cost savings.
Abstract Teaser