A systematic review of current approaches to managing demand and waitlists for mental health services
ISSN: 1361-9322
Article publication date: 5 November 2020
Issue publication date: 17 February 2021
Abstract
Purpose
Timely access to effective treatment is a primary goal for mental health services; however, when demand exceeds available resources, services may place clients on a waitlist or restrict services. This paper aims to identify approaches used by mental health services to manage service demand and waitlists.
Design/methodology/approach
A review of research literature between 2009 and 2019 was conducted using the Medline, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Embase and Cochrane databases. Articles were screened and assessed against inclusion criteria and the methodological quality of included studies was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool.
Findings
In total, 20 articles were located that met the inclusion criteria. Five demand management approaches were identified, namely, walk-in models, triage processes, multi-disciplinary care, patient-led approaches and service delivery changes.
Research limitations/implications
This review identifies effective approaches that services can consider adapting to their local setting; however, further research is needed to demonstrate the clinical effectiveness of services provided under these models.
Originality/value
This review makes a valuable contribution to mental health care service delivery by detailing the strategies that services have adopted to manage demand and, where available, comparative outcomes with traditional service delivery models.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
This review was commissioned by headspace, the National Youth Mental Health Foundation, which is funded by the Australian Government.Disclosure statements: Kerry A. Thomas: In accordance with Taylor and Francis policy and my ethical obligation as a researcher, I am reporting that I am a consultant to the company that commissioned the research reported in the enclosed paper. I have disclosed those interests fully to Taylor and Francis, and I have in place an approved plan for managing any potential conflicts arising from this consultancy relationship.Annelise Schroder: No potential conflict of interest.Debra Rickwood: In accordance with Taylor and Francis policy and my ethical obligation as a researcher, I am reporting that I am employed by the company that commissioned the research reported in the enclosed paper.
Citation
Thomas, K.A., Schroder, A.M. and Rickwood, D.J. (2021), "A systematic review of current approaches to managing demand and waitlists for mental health services", Mental Health Review Journal, Vol. 26 No. 1, pp. 1-17. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHRJ-05-2020-0025
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited