Prospective study of intake procedures in a child psychiatry clinic.
Two methods of patient intake in a child psychiatry outpatient clinic were compared. In one, appointments were made immediately upon request; in the second, completion of a parental questionnaire was required before an appointment was made. Results indicated that a commitment from the parent/guardian evidenced by completing a parent-questionnaire prior to the screening appointment 1) significantly increased the attendance rate at first appointments, and 2) increased compliance in follow-up treatment. These findings indicate the importance of improved communication between parents and clinic personnel in facilitating the treatment of children.
D001071:Appointments and Schedules; D001294:Attitude to Health; D002648:Child; D002665:Child Psychiatry; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy; D010044:Outpatient Clinics, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D010290:Parents / Q000523:psychology; D010343:Patient Admission; D010349:Patient Compliance; D011446:Prospective Studies