[Communication of psychiatric hospitals' specialization].

OBJECTIVE

To analyze whether specialization of psychiatric hospitals results in quality improvement, and whether it can and should be measured and communicated to patients and ambulatory care physicians.

METHODS

Depth interviews with key deciders in the German psychiatric care system.

RESULTS

There are several specializations within the system of psychiatric hospital care which can be communicated to patients and physicians; this would facilitate choice of hospital. There is no national database available yet.

CONCLUSIONS

Data collection and communication as provided by an independent organization would improve knowledge about hospital specialization.