Liaison psychiatry with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to describe the referral patterns, assessment and suggested management of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples referred to an inner-city general hospital psychiatry service. The overarching goal was quality improvement. METHOD: Participants were identified from the consultation-liaison psychiatry database of all referrals to the service from the general hospital and Emergency Department. All people over 18 identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander seen during the period 1 July 2004-30 June 2007 were included. Information regarding referral and liaison patterns, suggested psychiatric management, disposition and follow up were ..