Frequent use of psychiatric emergency services: A multilevel approach

Author

Andrew William White, University of Rhode Island

Date of Award

2007

Degree Type

Dissertation

First Advisor

Paul Florin

Abstract

There is limited information available regarding individuals who make frequent use of psychiatric emergency services. In particular, there is little agreement in the research literature around individual predictors of frequent use, and no existing literature on neighborhood level characteristics that influences frequent use. The current study combines individual level data from an urban psychiatric emergency room with census tract data to examine group and individual predictors of frequent use. Results suggest the presence of several individual level risk factors, such as the existence of a psychotic disorder, presence of dual diagnosis, and lack of health insurance. Tract level predictors are also suggested, such as ratings of neighborhood disadvantage and neighborhood mobility. Implications for research and future policy work are discussed.

Recommended Citation

White, Andrew William, "Frequent use of psychiatric emergency services: A multilevel approach" (2007). Open Access Dissertations. Paper 2184.
https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/oa_diss/2184