A system approach to reducing relapse in schizophrenia

Successful treatment of schizophrenia depends on understanding the nature of the disorder and providing a system of care with the primary locus in the community. Care must be continuous and must fulfill a wide variety of needs required for patients to make a stable adjustment to the community. The Dane County, Wisconsin, integrated system of community-based care is a proven model. It is based on the above principles and has resulted in more patients living independently and working productively, with fewer hospitalizations. The majority of funding for the Dane County Mental Health System is allocated to community services making it possible to offer a comprehensive set of programs. These programs work cooperatively to do whatever is needed to help patients achieve a stable life, of decent quality, in the community. The conceptual framework for the treatment of persons with schizophrenia, the principles of treatment, and a system of care based on those principles is discussed.