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

e-mail: gary.inglis{at}slam.nhs.uk

Martin Baggaley, Clinical Director and Consultant Psychiatrist

The Ladywell Unit, South London & Maudsley NHS Trust, University Hospital Lewisham, London SE13 6LW, UK

Declaration of interest

None.

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 more-efficient 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 aweek, creative useo f information technology and a highly skilled multidisciplinary team.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

The introduction of the new model has resulted in a more-efficient 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.

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