[Forensic psychiatry § 63 StGB patients in Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania - Findings from a pilot study in preparation of an annual survey in forensic mental health services].

Abstract

In order to ensure the feasibility of a nationwide annual survey of patients in forensic psychiatry, a pilot study was conducted to collect data from the entire § 63 StGB patient population of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. Staff of the participating hospitals completed an online questionnaire on biographical, clinical and legal data that were analyzed descriptively. The data collection process was monitored and critically reviewed.Data on 145 patients (mean age 42 years) was collected. Schizophrenia was most frequently diagnosed, about half of the patients had a comorbid substance use disorder. Length of stay was longer compared to the German average. Notable is the low proportion of evidence-based treatment programs.The pilot showed that a nationwide survey of forensic-psychiatric patients is feasible and challenges can be overcome. The focus should be on therapies offered and their impact on otcomes.