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Trends in Hospital Discharges and Dispositions for Episodes of Co-occurring Severe Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders

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Abstract

This study examined trends in general hospital discharges and dispositions involving episodes of severe mental illness (SMI) with and without co-occurring substance use disorders. We analyzed data from the National Hospital Discharge Survey from 1979 through 2008. Discharges involving SMI and co-occurring substance use disorders (COD) were associated with shorter lengths of stay and had a greater likelihood of being discharged routinely or home and reduced likelihood of being transferred to a short- or long-term facility. Although COD discharges had a greater odds of leaving against medical advice than SMI discharges, this effect was not significant over time. A greater understanding of hospital discharge planning practices is needed to ensure that patients are linked to appropriate aftercare services.

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Conflict of interest

Dr. Manuel, Ms. Gandy, and Mr. Rieker report no competing interests.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Social Work, Academic Learning Commons, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1000 Floyd Avenue, Richmond, VA, 23284, USA

    Jennifer I. Manuel, Megan E. Gandy & David Rieker

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  1. Jennifer I. Manuel
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  2. Megan E. Gandy
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  3. David Rieker
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Correspondence to Jennifer I. Manuel.

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Manuel, J.I., Gandy, M.E. & Rieker, D. Trends in Hospital Discharges and Dispositions for Episodes of Co-occurring Severe Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders. Adm Policy Ment Health 42, 168–175 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-014-0540-x

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10488-014-0540-x

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