Mental health outcome assessment: The new agenda

Author(s): Dickey, B.

Journal/Book: Psychotherapy. 1996; 33: 3900 E Camelback Rd #200, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Amer Psychological Assoc, Div Psychotherapy. 181-189.

Abstract: This article reviews the new market-driven demands for mental health outcomes research, summarizes issues pertaining to choice of outcome measures, describes the implementation of an outcome assessment system in a clinical environment, and suggests directions for the future. Rising health care costs and resulting reimbursement limitations imposed by third-party payers have led to increased demands to justify mental health services. Profiling, report cards, instrument panels, and benchmarking have emerged as methods for understanding, documenting, and reporting quality and outcomes of treatment. Several national efforts are underway to achieve consensus on a core battery of measures to serve as a standard for a national mental health ''report card.'' An example of an outcome assessment system within a clinical setting is presented along with outcome profiles for age, gender, and diagnostic subgroups. Implications for the role of clinicians in outcome assessment efforts are discussed.

Note: Article SV Eisen, Mclean Hosp, Dept Mental Hlth Serv Res, 115 Mill St, Belmont, MA 02178 USA

Keyword(s): CARE; QUALITY; BENCHMARKING; IMPROVEMENT

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