One-year outcome in first episode psychosis patients in the Swedish Parachute project.
OBJECTIVE
Implementing a system designed to treat first episode psychotic (FEP) patients.


METHODS
Every FEP patient (n=253) from a catchment area of 1.5 million inhabitants were asked to participate in this 5-year project. One historical (n=71) and one prospective (n=64) FEP group were used for comparisons.


RESULTS
A total of 175 patients (69%) were followed up through the first year of treatment. Global Assessment of Functioning (GAF) values were significantly higher than in the historical comparison group but similar to the prospective group. Psychiatric in-patient care was lower as was prescription of neuroleptic medication. Satisfaction with care was generally high in the Parachute group. Access to a small overnight crisis home was associated with higher GAF.


CONCLUSIONS
It is possible to successfully treat FEP patients with fewer in-patient days and less neuroleptic medication than is usually recommended, when combined with intensive psychosocial treatment and support.
Cullberg
J
J
Stockholm Center of Public Health, Unit of Mental Health, Stockholm, Sweden. johan.cullberg@smd.sll.se
Levander
S
S
Holmqvist
R
R
Mattsson
M
M
Wieselgren
I-M
IM
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010054:Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006760:Hospitalization / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000592:standards*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D012944:Social Support; D013548:Sweden; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D014150:Antipsychotic Agents