MEDICAL AND PSYCHIATRIC NEEDS OF ADULTS WITH A MENTAL HANDICAP

This study describes the assessment of the medical and psychiatric needs of adults with a mental handicap recently resettled in community facilities including 'staffed houses'. No statistically significant differences were found for behaviour problems and psychiatric diagnosis prior to resettlement and one year after. However, increased use of primary care and expert psychiatric service were found following the resettlement. Clinical and service issues in relation to successful maintenance of people with mental handicap in the community are discussed.