Cost-benefit analysis and the evaluation of psychiatric services.
The paper sets out a method for evaluating changes in psychiatric services in a cost-benefit framework. The first section of the paper analyses some of the problems which arise with those elements which can be measured in monetary terms--the 'hard' costs and benefits. The second section looks at a method of presenting the less tangible effects--the 'soft' costs and benefits. Finally, it is suggested how these can be brought together to aid rational decision-making.
D003156:Community Mental Health Services; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004470:Economics, Medical; D005102:Health Expenditures; D006760:Hospitalization; D007182:Income; D008605:Mental Health Services; D012943:Social Security; D006113:United Kingdom