Impact of the Increase in State Benefits on the Pattern of Expenditure by Patients in a High Secure Hospital

Abstract

Obesity and associated health risks are significant problems in the psychiatric population. This study measured the impact of increases in state benefits on patients' expenditure on foodstuff and consequent increase in calorie consumption. Data were obtained on increases in state benefits and stock levels of foodstuff ordered by the patients' shop and snack bar before and after the increase in benefits. Calorie levels of the extra stock were calculated. The results indicate that changes in state benefits led to increased expenditure by patients' on foodstuff and a significant increase in calorie provision.

Citation

Harper, S., Ferriter, M. and Cormac, I. (2008), "Impact of the Increase in State Benefits on the Pattern of Expenditure by Patients in a High Secure Hospital", Mental Health Review Journal, Vol. 13 No. 3, pp. 4-7. https://doi.org/10.1108/13619322200800016