Effectiveness of inpatient treatment programs for mentally ill adults in public psychiatric facilities

Abstract

This article updates the current state of knowledge and research on the effectiveness of inpatient treatment programs for mentally ill adults in the public sector to provide guidance for improving both research and services. National figures show inpatient facilities to still be predominant in the U.S. public mental health system; the populations and programs in these facilities are in serious need of science-based assistance. We summarize the major conceptual factors that influence the conduct and interpretation of inpatient outcome studies, clinical trials, or program evaluations (relevant domains and classes of variables, unit of analysis and effectiveness criteria, empirical findings on moderator variables). The major inpatient treatment approaches are described, and the empirical literature on effectiveness is reviewed. We conclude with a summary of the substantial accumulated evidence and recommendations for use of new assessment technology to assist with implementation of effective approaches and for advancing promising lines of research. The time seems ripe for exciting science-based advances in research and services.