Journal of AdvancedMedical and Dental Sciences Research

Aim The objectives of the study were to quantify the rates of treatment non-compliance in psychiatric patients post discharge and to evaluate the reasons for the same with a view to suggest corrective actions. Methods The study was carried out in a tertiary teaching hospital over a period of 6 months. The patients were followed up every month for a period of 3 months at the department of Psychiatry or were contacted over phone. Results 26 patients were untraceable and 136 patients were followed up during the course of the study. Only 50% of the subjects remained compliant and were attending the OPD at 3 months while just 4.4% were continuing the prescription without attending the department. The main reasons for non-compliance and non-adherence to the prescribed regimen were feeling well and therefore no need for further treatment, financial issues, under treatment elsewhere or medication side effects. Diagnoses included schizophrenia (52%), bipolar affective disorder (22%), major depression (2.5%), substance use disorders (16%), acute and transient psychotic disorders (5%) and dementia (2%). Conclusion A 50% non-compliance rate though worrying is not alarming. The community mental health programme, NMHP (National Mental Health Programme) which includes the DMHP (District Mental Health Programme) seems to be working. It needs to be strengthened and fine tuned to achieve the goal of mental health for all. Key words: non-compliance, discharge, inpatients.