Triage in mental health - a new model for acute in-patient psychiatry

AIMS AND METHOD In-patient psychiatric care needs urgent improvement and development. A new model of psychiatric care (triage) has been used for 6 months across an adult psychiatric service covering a London borough. RESULTS Preliminary results show that the new model has reduced bed occupancy, leading to moreefficient throughput, with positive feedback from patients and staff. Important factors contributing to these positive changes include a whole-systems approach, senior medical input 6 days a week, creative use of information technology and a highly skilled multidisciplinary team. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS The introduction of the new model has resulted in a moreefficient use of beds. Further evaluation will enable us to assess the impact on other parts of the service. As with all innovations, the improvements must be sustained once the initial enthusiasm has passed.