The aftermaths of deinstitutionalization: problmes and solutions

Area of Science:

• Community mental health
• Social services research
• Patient reintegration studies

Background:

• Large numbers of individuals with intellectual disabilities are transitioning from mental hospitals to community settings.
• Existing community support services are frequently fragmented, uncoordinated, and insufficient to meet patient needs.
• Research and practical experience have identified critical service requirements for successful community tenure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight essential services required for mentally handicapped patients in community settings.
• To emphasize the importance of coordinated care and individual accountability in community-based mental health services.

Main Methods:

• Review of research findings on community support services.
• Analysis of practical experiences with patient reintegration.
• Identification of successful demonstration projects.

Main Results:

• Numerous projects demonstrate that patients can be successfully maintained in community settings.
• The need for comprehensive, coordinated services is consistently highlighted.
• Establishing fixed responsibility for each individual is crucial for effective support.

Conclusions:

• Coordinated and comprehensive community services are vital for the successful integration of mentally handicapped patients.
• Assigned responsibility for individual patient care is a key factor in maintaining community placement.
• Improved service coordination can enhance the quality of life and community tenure for this population.