Discharge management in pediatric and adolescent psychiatry: Expectations and realities from the parental perspective

Abstract

Background: Interface management after inpatient care for mentally ill children and adolescents has been proven to be a breaking point in good transition of care between child and adolescent psychiatry, social welfare services, schools, job centre and the judicial system. Criteria for successful discharge management do not exist in child and adolescent psychiatry. Aim of the study ASpeKT was to survey parents on their perception of interface management and to derive recommendations for discharge management. Methods: Data regarding interface management were retrieved from parents (T3, n = 124, T4, n = 81) 6 months (T3) and 12 months (T4) after discharge. Results: The parents stated that accessible help after discharge from inpatient treatment is essential for stability and requires a good coordination. Parents named that they perceived helpful for successful interface management: a case manager, early round table meetings, support in returning to school, seamless access to outpatient follow-up appointments as well as information on further treatment options and contact data. Conclusion: From the perspective of affected families a proactive early individual and reliable care coordination by a constant contact person is essential for a good discharge management.