Rate and predictors of disengagement from a 2-year early intervention program for psychosis in Hong Kong.

OBJECTIVES: This study aims to examine the prevalence and predictors of disengagement in a longitudinal cohort of first-episode psychosis (FEP) patients.

METHODS: Seven hundred FEP patients aged 15 to 25 enrolled into the Early Assessment Service for Young People with Psychosis (EASY) from 2001 to 2003 were recruited into the study. Data on sociodemographics, clinical characteristics, baseline symptoms and functioning and medication adherence were collected. Rate and predictors of service disengagement were the outcomes of interest. Predictors were examined using Cox proportional hazards model.

RESULTS: Ninety four patients (13%) were disengaged from the EASY program. Fewer negative symptoms at initial presentation, a diagnosis other than schizophrenia-spectrum disorder and poorer medication compliance in the first month of treatment were significant predictors of disengagement from service.

CONCLUSIONS: Early intervention teams should pay attention to factors associated with disengagement, and monitor at risk patients closely to detect signs of non-adherence.