Improving the Quality of Care for Older Adults with Mental Disorders: The Outcomes-Based Treatment Planning System of the NH-Dartmouth Psychiatric Research Center

Publication Date:

Publisher: Center for Home Care Policy and Research, Visiting Nurse Service of New York

Author(s): S.J. Bartels; K.M. Miles; A.R. Dums

Research Area: Health

Type: Report

Abstract:

Older adults with severe mental illness present a significant public health challenge. The cost for treatment and residential care for this population is on the rise, as these individuals are high users of mental health services and at risk of institutionalization. Few clinicians are specifically trained in how to treat this population; there is little information about treatment needs; and there are few data on effective service models. The authors of this policy brief discuss a study done on the Outcomes-Based Treatment Planning (OBTP) system, which looks at 22 domains relevant to an older person's health and provides guidance to help clinicians assess problem areas and determine whether services are needed. The study of this system, a randomized clinical trial, was conducted in eight community mental health centers and five home health agencies in three states.



The two-year study indicates that the OBTP system resulted in more comprehensive client assessments, more specific treatments, and better chart documentation of both initial severity and client progress over time. The authors note that the OBTP can help address the generally low level of understanding among clinicians regarding older adults with serious mental illness and could lead to improved health and quality of life for this population.