Three-year outcome of treatment in an early psychosis program.
OBJECTIVE
Studies defining the course and outcome of people experiencing their first episode psychosis (FEP) generally report an improvement in symptoms and functioning. Little is known about the follow-up arrangements offered to patients when their time in a FEP comes to an end.


METHODS
Our study focuses on a sample of FEP patients (n = 292) who were followed for up to 3 years in a multi-element specialized FEP service.


RESULTS
Improvement in positive symptoms and social functioning, but not negative symptoms, was observed in this sample both for people who completed 3 years in the program and for those who left early. About 40% were referred to specialized mental health services, whereas 24% were followed by their family physician. Patients who were followed by family physicians had decreased symptoms and improved functioning.


CONCLUSIONS
Most patients treated in an early psychosis program will need follow-up, the largest group will require specialized mental health services in the community, but a significant group can be followed by family physicians.
Addington
Jean
J
Department of Psychiatry, Alberta Centennial Mental Health Research Chair, Calgary, Alberta. jmadding@ucalgary.ca
Addington
Donald
D
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000416:Alberta; D019090:Case Management; D003131:Combined Modality Therapy; D003156:Community Mental Health Services; D015897:Comorbidity; D003191:Comprehensive Health Care; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care; D003866:Depressive Disorder / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005194:Family Practice; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010043:Outcome and Process Assessment, Health Care; D011569:Psychiatric Status Rating Scales; D011618:Psychotic Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012017:Referral and Consultation; D012559:Schizophrenia / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D012565:Schizophrenic Psychology; D012917:Social Adjustment; D019966:Substance-Related Disorders / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000523:psychology / Q000534:rehabilitation; D055815:Young Adult