Reasons for Not Seeking General Medical Care Among Individuals With Serious Mental Illness

• DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.201300348
• Publication Date: 2014-04-15T04:31:16Z
• Authors: Ramin Mojtabai; Bernadette Cullen; Anita Everett; Katie L. Nugent; Akira Sawa; Vandad Sharifi; Yoichiro Takayanagi; Jaimie S. Toroney; William W. Eaton
• Keywords: Sample (material); Receipt; Depression

Objective The study compared delays in seeking general medical care among adults with serious mental illness and a population sample. Associations of health status use emergency department services individuals were also assessed. Methods Data for 271 persons (clinic sample) 40,016 participants the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS compared. Results Fifty-three percent clinic sample 13% NHIS reported delays, most because difficulties accessing services. In sample, associated receipt routine at public clinic, rather than physician's office; more severe depressive symptoms; functional difficulties. Delays poorer Conclusions Integration as envisioned Affordable Care Act targeted case management may reduce illness.