Medical students' perspective of maximum security psychiatric care

Abstract

Aims and method. This study describes the effects of teaching medical students in a maximum security psychiatric setting. A questionnaire was distributed to students (n = 210) at the beginning and end of their third year. Results. Following the visit to the State Hospital significantly more students understood that maximum security psychiatric facilities are part of the National Health Service; that some serious offenders may require hospitalisation rather than imprisonment; that not everyone detained in such surroundings is actively violent or dangerous, or permanently detained. Twenty-three students considered forensic psychiatry to be a possible career option. Clinical implications. This study demonstrates that early exposure, even to such a specialised area of practice, can enhance the prospects of future recruitment. Attracting motivated, able and interested doctors is important in improving patient care.