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Cost-benefit analysis of a behavioral program for geriatric inpatients
Hospital & Community Psychiatry
|May 1, 1982
Summary
A new treatment program for elderly psychiatric patients proved effective, reducing hospital stays and improving living arrangements. This geriatric care initiative also demonstrated significant economic benefits, with high return on investment.
Area of Science:
- Geriatric Psychiatry
- Health Economics
- Behavioral Health
Background:
- Geriatric patients in psychiatric hospitals often face prolonged stays and suboptimal discharge settings.
- There is a need to evaluate the social and economic impact of active treatment programs for the elderly.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the effectiveness of a behaviorally oriented treatment program for geriatric psychiatric patients.
- To determine the social benefits and economic viability of active treatment for the elderly.
Main Methods:
- Development and implementation of a behaviorally oriented treatment program.
- Collection and analysis of outcome data on length of stay and discharge settings.
- Economic analysis to calculate benefit-to-cost ratios.
Main Results:
- The program successfully decreased the average length of hospital stay for geriatric patients.
- Fewer patients were discharged to more dependent living settings compared to admission.
- Increased rates of discharge to independent living settings were observed.
- Benefit-to-cost ratios ranged from 10:1 to 20:1, calculated using conservative assumptions.
Conclusions:
- Behaviorally oriented treatment is socially beneficial for geriatric psychiatric patients.
- Active treatment programs for the elderly are economically advantageous for psychiatric hospitals.
- The findings support the implementation of such programs as a cost-effective approach to geriatric mental healthcare.