PREVALENCE OF LONG-TERM MENTAL-HEALTH-CARE UTILIZATION IN THE NETHERLANDS

The objective of this study is to estimate the proportion of the popul ation in The Netherlands who receive long-term care for chronic psychi atric problems. The care needs of this population are assessed in term s both of diagnosis and of specific impairments and disabilities. Data from three surveys and two psychiatric case registers in five differe nt areas of The Netherlands provide an estimate of about 3.5 long-term users of psychiatric care per 1000 members of the population aged 20 years or over. One-third of them receive a diagnosis of schizophrenia and related psychotic disorders. Patients most frequently suffer from impairments of mood and affect, volition and drives. Nearly all patien ts are disabled in their occupational role (work), and about half of t he population have problems with self-care and household tasks. Long-t erm care is to a large extent (40%) provided in hospitals and sheltere d accommodation, and the role of day services is relatively insignific ant.