Length of Stay of General Psychiatric Inpatients in the United States: Systematic Review

Research output: Contribution to journalLiterature reviewpeer-review

125 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Psychiatric length of stay (LOS) has reduced but is still longer than for physical disorders. Inpatient costs are 16% of total mental health spending. Regression analyses of the determinants of LOS for US adult psychiatric inpatients were systematically reviewed. Most studies predated recent LOS reductions. Psychosis, female gender and larger hospital size were associated with longer LOS, while discharge against medical advice, prospective payment, being married, being detained and either younger or middle age were associated with shorter LOS. Associations appeared consistent, especially where sample size was above 3,000. Updated studies should be adequately powered and include the variables above.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)155 - 168
Number of pages14
JournalAdministration and Policy in Mental Health
Volume38
Issue number3
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2011

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