A comparative study of medication adherence, illness severity, and quality of life among psychiatric patients attending community mental health programs

Objectives: Mental health disorders represent a significant global health challenge, necessitating innovative approaches to treatment and care. This study aims to compare sociodemographic variables, medication compliance behavior, severity of illness, and Quality of Life (QOL) among psychiatric patients attending Community Mental Health Camps (CMHCs) and Follow-up Outpatient departments (FW-OPDs) of a tertiary hospital. The objectives include examining the associations between these factors and understanding how different care settings impact patient outcomes. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study design was utilized, enrolling psychiatric patients from both CMHCs and FW-OPDs. Data were collected through standardized questionnaires and clinical assessments. Medication adherence was measured using self-report scales, severity of illness through clinical evaluations, and QOL through validated instruments. Sociodemographic data were also gathered. Statistical analyses included Chi-square tests, regression analysis, and analysis of variance to explore the relationships between sociodemographic factors, medication adherence, severity of illness, and QOL. Results: Patients attending CMHCs demonstrated higher medication adherence compared to those at outpatient departments (OPDs), attributed to personalized care, continuous follow-up, and psychoeducational programs. The severity of illness was higher among OPD patients, while CMHC patients exhibited better psychological and social QOL but poorer physical health QOL. There were no significant differences in sociodemographic factors between the two patient groups. Conclusion: The study highlights the strengths of CMHCs in improving medication adherence and managing the severity of illness through comprehensive care. However, the poorer physical health QOL in CMHC patients indicates a need for integrated physical health services within these programs. Both CMHCs and FW-OPDs serve diverse patient populations, suggesting the need for inclusive and tailored interventions to enhance psychiatric care and patient outcomes across different healthcare settings.