Changes in Psychiatric Admissions in England (1996-2006)
Author Information
Author(s): Patrick Keown, Gavin Mercer, Jan Scott
Primary Institution: Newcastle University
Hypothesis
What are the trends in voluntary and involuntary admissions for mental disorders in England from 1996 to 2006?
Conclusion
Psychiatric inpatient care changed considerably from 1996 to 2006, with more involuntary admissions to fewer NHS beds.
Supporting Evidence
- Admissions for mental disorders peaked in 1998 and then started to fall.
- The number of NHS psychiatric beds decreased by 29%.
- The total number of involuntary admissions per annum increased by 20%.
- Patients admitted involuntarily occupied 36% of NHS psychiatric beds in 2006.
Takeaway
Over ten years, more people were admitted to hospitals against their will, but there were fewer hospital beds available for them.
Methodology
Retrospective analysis of hospital episode statistics and data on admissions for mental disorders.
Potential Biases
Data derived from disparate sources may indicate real changes but could also reflect reporting inconsistencies.
Limitations
Findings only apply to England and data sources had difficulties in year-on-year comparisons.
Participant Demographics
Ethnic minority groups comprised 21% of NHS inpatients and 19% of private inpatients.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
95% confidence interval 2.9 to 3.5
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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