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Implementation and development of early intervention in psychosis services in I taly: a national survey promoted by the A ssociazione I taliana I nterventi P recoci nelle P sicosi
Author(s) -
Cocchi Angelo,
Cavicchini Anna,
Collavo Marzia,
Ghio Lucio,
Macchi Sara,
Meneghelli Anna,
Preti Antonio
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
early intervention in psychiatry
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.087
H-Index - 45
eISSN - 1751-7893
pISSN - 1751-7885
DOI - 10.1111/eip.12277
Subject(s) - intervention (counseling) , early psychosis , mental health , psychoeducation , medicine , psychology , nursing , psychiatry
Aim This is the first comprehensive, nationwide survey aimed at collecting evidence about the process of implementation and development of early intervention in psychosis ( EIP ) services ( EIPs ) in I taly, following the establishment of the pilot program ‘Programma 2000’ in 1999 and the publishing of the I talian N ational G uidelines in 2007. This survey covers all the D epartments of M ental H ealth ( DMH s) operating in I taly in 2013. Methods Using a purpose‐designed form to assess EIP implementation, all directors of public mental health services for adults throughout I taly ( n = 216) were asked to provide information about the activities of EIP ‐relevant local services. The initial delivery was followed by a request for a prompt response. Results Out of 216 enquired DMHs , 103 provided computable answers to the survey (response rate = 48%). Among responders, 45 (44%) reported the implementation of EIP (one out of five DMHs operating in I taly). About a half of the active EIPs also targeted patients at ultra‐high risk of psychosis ( n = 27). Strict application of guidelines related to drug prescription was reported in 35% of EIPs . Conversely, 90% provided some kind of structured psychotherapy and psychoeducation. Among EIPs , a minority reported willingness to provide initial assessment/contact at the patient's home. Conclusion Albeit slowly, the implementation of EIP is spreading throughout the Italian public network of mental health. There is still a wide variability in the distribution of EIP services across the Italian territory. Further efforts are necessary to stimulate policy endorsement and resource allocation, as well as to support the poorest zones.