title: Understanding the Italian Experience.
abstract: The "Italian Experience" in closing down mental hospitals has been highly praised by some British observers, who have seen lessons for Britain in the development of community care. However, it has been the subject of heated debate in Italy--and the policy is now to be reversed by law. Two questions arise: why have the claims been exaggerated? And why have they found such ready and uncritical acceptance in Britain?
mesh_terms: D003156:Community Mental Health Services / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence* / Q000600:supply & distribution; D006268:Health Facilities; D006271:Health Facility Closure; D006778:Hospitals, Psychiatric / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence*; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D011057:Politics; D011331:Private Practice