First-episode psychosis patients recruited into treatment via early detection teams versus ordinary pathways: course, outcome and health service use during first 2 years

Aim: Within an early detection sector, to compare the 1‐ and 2‐year course and outcome of first‐episode psychosis patients coming into the treatment system via active outreach detection teams (DTs) versus those achieving help via ordinary referral channels (not‐DT). Methods: Longitudinal, comparative study of two parallel consecutive samples using structured clinical interview for the DSM‐IV, Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale Score, Global Assessment of Functioning Scale and Premorbid Assessment of Functioning Scale. Results: The DT group had significantly better functioning at baseline, but this was reversed after 3 months. At 2 years the groups had similar outcome. The DT group developed a more serious diagnostic pattern, had more cases of schizophrenia, and was more frequently treated on an outpatient basis only. Conclusions: The DTs recruited more chronic patients with poorer prognostic features, but fewer symptoms and better functioning at baseline. At 2 years the DT‐patients did as well as the not‐DT patients. They recovered more slowly, but given sufficient time, responded as well to therapy as the not‐DT group.