Pathway to care for patients with first-episode psychosis in Hong Kong

Abstract

Objective: To describe the pathway to care for patients with first-episode psychosis in Hong Kong. Patients and Methods: Thirty five consecutive patients attending the Early Assessment Service for Young People with First-episode Psychosis at Queen Mary Hospital were recruited. All patients were systematically interviewed about the issues relating to the help-seeking pathway before receiving treatment. Results: A longer duration of untreated psychosis was associated with more clinical symptomatology than a shorter duration of untreated psychosis. A significant proportion of patients accessed the early assessment service directly. The most frequently reported first contact was a primary care physician or a social worker. Conclusion: This exploratory study underlines the importance of engaging patients with first-episode psychosis and their relatives with primary care physicians and/or social workers for early intervention. © 2005 Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists.