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[Forensic patients in Denmark--2000-2004].
1Justitsministeriet, Retspsykiatrisk Klinik, og Handelshøjskolen i København, Center for Statistik, København. pk@retspsykiatriskklinik.dk
Ugeskrift for Laeger
|November 25, 2005
Summary
The number of forensic patients in Denmark is increasing exponentially, with an 11% annual growth rate. This trend strains psychiatric bed availability, posing challenges for mentally ill individuals.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Psychiatry
- Public Health Policy
- Mental Health Services Research
Context:
- Denmark experienced a significant rise in forensic patients from 1980-1999.
- Legislative changes in 2000 impacted psychiatric order durations.
- This study analyzes trends from 2000-2004.
Purpose:
- To map the development of forensic patient numbers in Denmark between 2000 and 2004.
- To analyze incidence and prevalence rates following legislative changes.
Summary:
- Forensic patient incidence grew exponentially (6.2% 1989-1999, 12.8% 2002-2004).
- Prevalence decreased initially (2000-2001) but then rose (11.0% 2002-2004).
- Current exponential growth in forensic patients (11% annually) is observed.
Impact:
- Forensic patients occupy 20% of Danish psychiatric beds.
- This, coupled with decreasing bed availability, signals a critical situation for mental healthcare.
- Potential links to deinstitutionalization and increased criminality among schizophrenic patients are noted.