Access to mental health care in an inner-city health district. I: Pathways into and within specialist psychiatric services.

BACKGROUND

Needs for mental health care are likely to be high in urban areas. Purchasers must assess the extent to which these are being met. The pathways to care model provides a framework for this purpose.

METHOD

Epidemiological surveys of adults living in deprived multi-ethnic inner-city catchment area were undertaken in psychiatric services, primary care and community settings. Estimated prevalence rates were calculated and the association between clinical and demographic factors and the use of psychiatric services examined.

RESULTS

Around a third of people with mental health problems did not consult a GP, and half failed to have their problems recognised by their doctor. Access to psychiatric services and especially to inpatient care was highly restricted. Diagnosis and ethnicity had a marked influence on the use of specialist services.

CONCLUSIONS

Many people with psychiatric morbidity are not receiving treatment either from primary care or specialist services. High levels of severe morbidity and compulsory admissions highlight the pressures placed on inner-city psychiatric services.