The effects of race on diagnosis and disposition from a psychiatric emergency service.

摘要: Background Previous studies have reported that racial differences exist in patterns of clinical psychiatric diagnoses as well the distribution mental health services resources. The emergency service serves an entry point into system, so it plays a potentially important role addressing disparities diagnosis and disposition. To address this disparity, authors studied two specific questions: (1) are there (2) disposition patients visiting service? Method Demographic data were obtained by retrospective chart review 490 randomly selected from 9500 visits to large during 1-year period. All information had been recorded primary treaters who no knowledge study. Results Black significantly more likely be diagnosed with schizophrenia substance abuse than similar white patients, although less personality disorder. hospitalized, particularly at public hospital, significant insurance coverage or measures suicidal homicidal ideation. Conclusion Despite availability DSM-III-R criteria, black continue disproportionately schizophrenia. In sample, may given lieu disorder affective illness diagnosis. also hospitalized. These observations suggest further research is needed clarify effects race on decision-making process service.