This review examined models of care for transitioning long-stay psychiatric patients into community settings. Although much of the evidence was of low quality, the review found consistent reductions in costs and services over time. Most patients were satisfied with, and successful in, their transition to community living and showed improved functioning, quality of life, social skills and engagement in activities. Based on strong evidence, the authors recommended inpatient readiness for transition training with continuity of care between inpatient and outpatient settings. Other recommendations include services based on a recovery model, suitable housing, and ongoing disability support.
Citation
Matheson SL, Carr VJ. Transitioning long-stay psychiatric inpatients to the community: an Evidence Check rapid review brokered by the Sax Institute for the NSW Ministry of Health, 
