Evaluation of Assertive Community Treatment for Treating SZ

Question 1

+ Meta-analysis

Answer 1

A meta-analysis by Bond of 25 studies into the effectiveness of ACT concluded that ACT was highly effective as it engaged patients, prevented re-hospitalisation, and improved quality of life - ACT validated by highly reliable and valid research evidence AND demonstrates the holistic approach is successful

Question 2

+ Works for all people

Answer 2

ACT seems to work with all genders, age groups, and across culture - ACT is not affected by individual differences

Question 3

+ Reduces hospitlaisation compared to standard

Answer 3

A study comparing those given standard care to those given ACT found that over the first year, 58% of patients given standard care were readmitted to hospital compared to only 6% of those given ACT - highly effective and validates reduction in hospitalisation

Question 4

• Rural patients

Answer 4

Problems occur for those living in less populated or rural areas as they cannot always access the support - limits ACT as not always accessible

Question 5

• Social control

Answer 5

ACT has issues of social control as patients cannot always choose whether or not to undergo the treatment - ethical issues, BUT may been seen as for the greater good

Question 6

+ Varies based on implementation

Answer 6

Studies have reflected that ACT’s success varies based on how well it is implemented - requires competent workers to undertake it and is ineffective when not well managed