Use of ECT in California, 1977-1983

Abstract

The author examined the use of ECT in California from 1977 to 1983, a period during which its availability steadily declined. Approximately 1.12 persons per 10,000 population received ECT in 1977-1983, with little variation from year to year. Most ECT was paid for with nonpublic funds by white patients in nongovernmental facilities. The probability of receiving ECT increased with the age of the patient. ECT was quite safe: no fractures were reported, and the mortality rate was 0.2 deaths per 10,000 treatments. Despite restrictive regulation and limited availability, ECT continues to be used in California.