A qualitative analysis of clients' evaluation of a psychiatric day Hospital

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to qualitatively explore and describe the evaluation of a psychiatric day hospital by a group of participants. Clients attending a day hospital between 1999 and 2003 completed a program evaluation questionnaire during their last week (N = 567). A qualitative content analysis of 104 questionnaires was conducted by three investigators. Results indicated that clients had both positive and negative views of the health care professionals, program structure, and group therapy. Participants highlighted that they learned about themselves and their illness, improved their self-esteem, and acquired valuable life skills and renewed hope.