Factors predicting drop-out in community mental health centres.

Estimated drop-out rates in outpatient psychiatric services vary considerably, ranging from 20 to 60% 1Ð9. This variation can be attributed to discrepancies in the way dropping out is defined 10, differences in sample composition, the setting in which the phenomenon is analysed and the study design. The drop-out rate is highest at initial appointments 11; therefore studies that include the first stages of treatment find higher drop-outs rates. The aim of this study was to analyse the factors associated with dropping out of contact with outpatient services. In particular, we explored the influence of patientsÕ socio-demographic features, clinical diagnosis, type of treatment received and characteristics of therapists.

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