[Interdisciplinary ambulatory care in patients with chronic mental disease]

The experience of an ambulatory treatment for mental chronic outpatients is presented. A trans-disciplinary group (including a psychiatrist, an occupational therapist, a social worker, a nurse, and a psychologist) worked during a 3-year period. Five specific clinics were created: Organic Mental Syndrome, Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders, Neurosis, and Psychoactive Substance Users. Results of the treatment are presented, showing the benefits such a clinical envisioning meant not only for the patients involved but also for their family, the hospital management, and the members of the therapeutic group as well.