["Because it concerns me"--patient-directed discharge letters].

PURPOSE

Evaluation of practicability and acceptance of discharge summaries addressed directly to patients after psychiatric hospitalisation.

METHODS

Over a period of 3 months 65 patients got discharge summaries addressed directly to them. Doctors and patients--4 months after discharge--were asked to evaluate this procedure.

RESULTS

Both doctors' and patients' acceptance and evaluation was very positive. Argumentations for this view were the need to give and get information and the impression that this procedure can enhance confidence and trust.