The Analysis of Community-Based Identification, Assessment and Allocation System for Early Psychosis / 대한정신분열병학회지

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to make empirical evidence of community based detection, assessment and allocation system for early psychosis. METHODS: We analysed 222 youths who were referred to Seoul Early Management and Improvement Services (SEMIS) for early psychosis during six years from 2007 to 2012. RESULTS: 44% of referrals were from suicide hotline, 23% from web-based SEMIS assessment program, 20% from other service areas such as military services and 11% were self referred. Among 222 youths, 139 (62.6%) were completed Structured Interview for Prodromal Syndrome (SIPS). After SIPS, 23% had untreated or early psychosis, another 17% were found to be at high risk of psychosis and 18% of completed SIPS were found to have other mental illness such as depression, yielding an efficiency ratio of 58%. 70% of youths who were categorized as psychosis or high risk of psychosis or other mental illness were referred to psychiatric hospital or case management services. CONCLUSION: This study shows the effectiveness and limitations of community-based assessment and intervention system for early psychosis. Integrated community program is necessary to improve the efficiency of early intervention and for the better outcomes.