查看文章

Older people with common mental health problems (CMHPs) are known to have reduced rates of referral to psychological therapy.

To assess referral rates to the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) services, contact with a therapist, and clinical outcome by age.

Empirical research study using patient episodes of care from South West of England IAPT services.

By analysing 82 513 episodes of care (2010–2011), referral rates and clinical improvement were compared with both total population and estimated prevalence in each age group using IAPT data. Probable recovery of those completing treatment was calculated for each group.

Estimated prevalence of CMHPs peaks in 45–49-year-olds (20.59% of population). The proportions of patients identified with CMHPs being referred peaks at 20–24 years (22.95%) and reduces with increase in age …