An evaluation of the cost effectiveness of day hospitalization for black male schizophrenics

Abstract

This controlled study, utilizing matched pairs, evaluates the relative cost effectiveness of day hospitalization to inpatient treatment in a group of 18- to 24-year-old black schizophrenic males. Global Assessment Scale scores were measured upon intake, at the time of discharge, and at the three-month follow-up to determine the level of patient functioning for each treatment group. Cost outcome measures were made for each program and a side-by-side cost effective analysis was conducted between the two. Results reveal evidence that day treatment was superior to inpatient care at a lower cost for a longer period of time.