Users' attitudes towards home and hospital treatment: a comparative study between South Asian and white residents of the British Isles.

This study examines attitudes, of adult users of mental health services, towards hospital and home treatment in a crisis or emergency. A comparison was made between South Asian clients (n = 35) and white residents of the British Isles (n = 26) with a diagnosis of schizophrenia as defined by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD 10). The aim was to broaden the knowledge base of the psychiatric service providers in an under-researched area. Data were collected using a structured 15-item questionnaire, measured on a five-point Likert scale. Although both groups of respondents expressed preference for home treatment, the reasons stated differed. There were statistical differences (P = 0.05) in five of the 15 items, including diet, stigma, treatment concordance, religious practices and faith healing, which form the bulk of the discussion. Greater client satisfaction is conditional upon a quality of care responsive to individual needs. These needs may vary according to ethnicity, religious beliefs, diet, language and family life, among other factors. As the cultural constitution of Britain continues to alter, it is increasingly important that healthcare professionals are sensitive, knowledgeable and skilled in caring for such a culturally diverse population. In turn, this may avoid stereotyping or mislabelling.