Ten Years of Operation of a Small Belgian Medium-Security Unit—How Are We Doing?

Abstract

Abstract International literature suggests that forensic care is best organized by independent security levels with appropriate infrastructure, procedures, and therapeutic goals. However, resources are not always sufficient to allow for organizing this way. We describe the functioning of a medium-security unit (MSU) where we not only rehabilitate forensic patients for their transition from prison to community life but also readmit relapsing patients and provide time-outs for patients in crisis. We discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this cohabitation for patients and personnel. This study is also the first to present figures regarding readmissions of relapsing patients and prison remittal in Belgium from a MSU point of view.