Am J Psychiatry 1975; 132:70-73
Copyright © 1975 by American Psychiatric Association
New perspectives in psychiatry in the Veterans Administration
JJ Baker
Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Service, Veterans Administration Central Office, Washington, D.C. 20420.
In 1972, the mental health services in the Veterans Administration were
reorganized in a manner designed to increase the probability of
interdisciplinary collaboration. VA hospitals were urged to form
multidisciplinary mental health committees to advise on local programs and
practices. This "corporate" approach has led to significant changes in the
use of staff and in the physical and psychological environment in some
hospitals. While it is too early to evaluate the full impact of the changes
on patient care, waiting lists have been reduced and length of hospital
stay has decreased.
