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BACKGROUND: While recent research points to the potential benefits of clinical intervention before the first episode of psychosis, the logistical feasibility of this is unclear. AIMS: To assess the feasibility of providing a clinical service for people with prodromal symptoms in an inner city area where engagement with mental health services is generally poor. METHOD: Following a period of liaison with local agencies to promote the service, referrals were assessed and managed in a primary care setting. Activity of the service was audited over 30 months. RESULTS: People with prodromal symptoms were referred by a range of community agencies and seen at their local primary care physician practice. Over 30 months, 180 clients were referred; 58 (32.2%) met criteria for an at risk mental state, most of whom (67.2%) had attenuated psychotic symptoms. Almost 30% were excluded due to current or previous psychotic illness, of which two-thirds were in the first episode of psychosis. The socio-demographic composition of the 'at risk' group reflected that of the local population, with an over-representation of clients from an ethnic minority. Over 90% of suitable clients remained engaged with the service after 1 year. CONCLUSION: It is feasible to provide a clinical service for people with prodromal symptoms in a deprived inner city area with a large ethnic minority population.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/j.eurpsy.2005.03.001

Type

Journal article

Journal

Eur Psychiatry

Publication Date

08/2005

Volume

20

Pages

372 - 378

Keywords

Adult, Community Mental Health Services, Community-Institutional Relations, Feasibility Studies, Female, Health Services Accessibility, Humans, London, Male, Patient Satisfaction, Primary Health Care, Psychotic Disorders, Referral and Consultation, Risk Factors, Socioeconomic Factors, Urban Health Services