“Until the decision to admit the patient is made...”: Experiences of clinicians working in the inpatient-community mental health care pathway for young people in the UK

Shah, Ashika; Holland, Josephine; Briley, Paul M.; Majumder, Pallab

Abstract

Objective
The raised complexity, severity, and risk level of referrals to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service (CAMHS) has put serious pressure on bed availability in adolescent psychiatry hospitals, which resulted in lengthy admission processes. We aimed to explore clinician’s experience of the admission process and transition between community and inpatient care for adolescents, with an objective to inform improvement, to allow appropriate, timely admission and discharge, and better outcomes.
Method
In this mixed methods project, survey questionnaires were sent to CAMHS professionals across 6 Trusts. The survey included questions relating to admission, inpatient care and discharge from hospital. The quantitative data was analysed descriptively, whilst qualitative data thematically analysed.
Results
The quantitative findings highlighted the demographic characteristics and experiences of the participants. Five overarching themes were gleaned from the qualitative data: communication, issues with process (Form 1), benefits and drawbacks of technology, bed finding process, and the importance of Form 1 for inpatient teams.
Conclusion
Findings highlight important aspects of the admissions process that can be improved. The clinical implications of this may be improved Form 1, regular meetings between community and inpatient teams, clearer bed finding/ management process, and better management of risk in the community.

Citation

Shah, A., Holland, J., Briley, P. M., & Majumder, P. (in press). “Until the decision to admit the patient is made...”: Experiences of clinicians working in the inpatient-community mental health care pathway for young people in the UK. British Journal of Healthcare Management,

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Mar 14, 2024
• Deposit Date: Mar 28, 2024
• Journal: British Journal of Healthcare Management
• Print ISSN: 1358-0574
• Publisher: Mark Allen Healthcare
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Public URL: https://nottingham-repository.worktribe.com/output/33023376