Changes in general hospital psychiatric care, 1980-1985.

More than 60% of all inpatient psychiatric episodes occur in general hospitals. The need for psychologists' involvement in this important area is discussed. Changes in general hospital inpatient care from 1980 to 1985 are described. These include important and controversial changes in public policy, most notably Medicare's prospective payment system. Substantial changes in the de facto system occurred in patterns of diagnosis, sites of care, and the role of third-party payers. Implications for public policy and future investigations are drawn.