Key enhancing factors for integrating services for patients with mental and substance use disorders

Abstract

Background: Over the past decade, practice standards have recommended that people experiencing both mental and substance use disorders receive integrated treatment. Yet few institutions offer integrated services, and patients are too often turned away from psychiatric and rehabilitation services. Aim: To identify key enhancing elements for integrating services for patients with co-occurring disorders. Methods: A process evaluation was conducted, using case study research methodology, with the aim of identifying factors that enhance or impede service integration. First, we elaborated a sound conceptual framework of service integration. In-depth case studies analysis using socio-anthropological methods (interviews with managers and professionals, focus groups with patients, non-participant observation, document analysis) were then conducted. Two contrasted forms of services integration, a joint venture and a strategic alliance, were analysed separately, and then compared. Results: Although the forms of inte...