Early intervention for first-episode psychosis: broadening the scope of economic estimates

To explore the economic impacts of early intervention in England on outcomes and costs for people with first-episode psychosis.

Three decision analytical models were constructed to compare treatment by early intervention for first-episode psychosis with standard care in relation to employment, education, homicide and suicide. Data on effectiveness and costs were taken from previous studies and expert opinion. Sensitivity analyses tested the robustness of assumptions.

Our models indicate that early intervention demonstrates savings of £2087 per person over 3 years from improved employment and education outcomes. In addition, the annual costs over 10 years related to homicide after early intervention were £80 lower than for standard care. There were also annual savings of £957 per person for early intervention over 4 years compared to standard care as a result of suicides averted.

Not only can investment in early intervention help reduce some of the long-term costs and consequences of mental disorders to the health-care system. In addition, there are broader economic benefits that strengthen the potential cost savings to society.