[Refusal of catamnestic testing]

From a study of catamnesis involving 866 persons admitted to hospital for psychiatric care (Enquête de Lausanne, Ciompi--Müller), the authors have examined the patients who refused this test, that is to say 10%, trying to determine the characteristics. In comparing the two groups they came to the conclusion that there were no significant differences between them, and that the overall results of the statistic research would not have been modified had the above mentioned persons been included. They therefore recommend discretion, as well as the respect of the individual by not forcing the person to look backwards. They suggest that all studies of catamnesis be conducted by the doctor who treated the patient beforehand, if this is at all possible.