Evaluation of home care treatment for schizophrenic patients

Twenty-seven patients diagnosed as schizophrenics suffering their first episode of illness and who had not received any prior medical treatment for the present illness, have been treated in their own homes. The treatment was carried out by a visiting nurse, trained in follow-up assessment and counselling. The outcome of this group was compared with a similar group of 27 patients who underwent initial mental hospital admission and subsequent outpatient follow-up. Both groups were followed up for 6 months. The results reveal that the home treatment through a visiting nurse gives a better clinical outcome, better social functioning of the patient and greatly reduces the burden on the patients' families. This treatment modality is also more economical.