| Abstract: | This paper describes a psychoeducation program designed for families and caregivers of patients who suffer from schizophrenia on an inpatient ward of an acute care hospital in a major metropolitan city. It is based on 10 years of experience working with over 600 relatives and caregivers. It discusses the research pertinent to developing such a program, the five elements the authors consider necessary to its success, and the stages of the actualprogram. The five elements include universal service, crisis intervention, social functioning of patient and famly, 2 years continuity of care postdischarge, and the role of the family clinician. It addresses issues raised by working as a muultidisciplinary team and problems in service delivery. A case history illustrates the process. |
