Postdischarge follow-up of psychiatric inpatients and readmission in an HMO setting

This study examined the relationship between follow-up and rehospitalization of inpatients discharged from treatment in two divisions of a health maintenance organization (HMO). Among 580 patients discharged, two-thirds made a follow-up visit within 30 days. Slightly less than a third were readmitted within six months. Readmission was less likely for patients who made a follow-up visit and for men. Patients who had a preadmission relationship with a mental health practitioner were more likely to make a follow-up visit and were more likely to be readmitted. Follow-up was also associated with diagnoses of adjustment and affective disorders.