Transfer Delays in a Special Hospital Population

Abstract

Forty-four cases referred for transfer/trial leave from a Special Hospital in the latter part of 1989 were followed up and their progress on 1 January 1992 was examined. Thirty-four were accepted but only 19 moved out to psychiatric units offering treatment under conditions of lesser security. Three of the original 44 patients were discharged by Mental Health Tribunals and one has died. Twenty-three have never left maximum security. Factors largely beyond the control of Special Hospital consultants accounted for most of the delay in the transfer procedure. Fifty-eight per cent of the total time taken for transfer was attributable to delays by regional/district services in the assessment, response and admission of cases. Noticeable delays in receiving Home Office recommendations were also encountered in restricted cases. Suggestions for improving current standards are made.