Evaluation of a New Zealand Early Intervention Service for Psychosis

Abstract

The effectiveness of a New Zealand early intervention for psychosis service (EIS) was assessed by analysis of 100 EIS patients' Positive and Negative Symptom Severity (PANNS) scores and Health of the Nation Outcome (HoNOS) scores that were collected over five time periods from intake through to 24 months. PANSS and HoNOS scores improved significantly within the first three months and continued to improve significantly over time. There was no significant relationship between duration of untreated psychosis and symptom severity or HoNOS scores either at intake or over time. Better outcomes were associated with length of contact with the service, high engagement and high medication compliance. Female patients had higher levels of engagement and medication compliance, and slightly better outcomes for negative symptoms. Level of satisfaction with the service was ascertained through small sub-samples of questionnaires and interviews. Patient satisfaction appeared to be associated with a collaborative therapeutic relationship rather than with treatment modality. It is recommended that future research seeks to clarify the specific skills necessary for establishing engagement, especially with male patients.