Crisis resolution/home treatment teams, gate-keeping and the role of the consultant psychiatrist

Abstract

Aims and Method: The working relationship between consultant psychiatrists and crisis resolution/home treatment (CRHT) teams varies quite widely. Data from the national survey have been used to investigate the effects of consultant psychiatrist intput upon functions of the CRHT team. Logistic regression was employed to consider the effects of team size, team maturity and consultant input upon gate-keeping and fidelity to model (how many of six criteria teams' activities included). Results: There were statistically significant effects of size and maturity upon fidelity, and of maturity and consultant input upon gate-keeping. Clinical implications: The relationship between the consultant psychiatrist and other elements of the acute care pathway is an important determinant of how it functions. Depending upon how they relate to them, consultants can assist or hinder a team's capacity to fulfill their intended purposes.