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Evaluation of the Alumni Program. A shared-care model for psychosis
Heather Hobbs1, Jane Hamilton Wilson, Suzanne Archie
1Psychotic Disorders Clinic, Hamilton Health Sciences Centre, McMaster Campus, Box 2000, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada L8N 3Z5. heather.hobbs@sympatico.ca
Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services
|February 11, 2004
Summary
The Alumni Program offers continuing psychiatric support for individuals with psychosis, showing favorable results in reducing relapse and hospital readmissions. This shared care model proves beneficial for long-term health maintenance.
Area of Science:
- Psychiatry
- Clinical Psychology
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Psychotic disorders require ongoing management and support.
- Continuing psychiatric care is crucial for long-term client well-being.
- Shared care models integrate specialist and primary care for enhanced treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the Alumni Program for individuals with psychosis.
- To assess the program's impact on health maintenance and relapse prevention.
- To determine the program's role in reducing hospital readmissions and emergency visits.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, naturalistic evaluation of the Alumni Program.
- Review of clinical data over an 8-year period.
- Analysis of shared care between specialist psychiatric teams and family practitioners.
Main Results:
- The Alumni Program demonstrated favorable outcomes.
- The program supports clients in achieving health maintenance goals.
- Evidence suggests a reduction in relapse, hospital readmission, and emergency visits.
Conclusions:
- The Alumni Program is a viable follow-up method for psychiatric services.
- Shared care within the Alumni Program benefits individuals with psychosis.
- The program contributes to comprehensive mental health care strategies.