The Physical Health Check: A tool for mental health workers

Author： Phelan Michael Stradins Linda Amin Dipti Isadore Rachel Hitrov Christine Doyle Anne Inglis RIk

ISSN： 1360-0567

Source： Journal of Mental Health, Vol.13, Iss.3, 2004-06, pp. : 277-285

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Abstract

Background: The physical health of people with mental illness is often poor. There is a need for mental health services to address the issue.Aims: The Physical Health Check (PHC) is a short tool designed to be used by mental health staff to assess physical health needs. It was developed by a multidisciplinary research group, with the intention that it should be quick and easy to use, and acceptable to service users.Results: When administered to 60 CMHT clients a high level of unmet physical needs were detected. These included the need for health promotion, as well as specific medical or other interventions. A comparison with routine practice in a neighbouring CMHT, suggests that use of the PHC significant improves the recording of physical health information.Conclusions: the PHC is a useful tool, designed to be used routinely by mental health staff to assess physical health needs.Declaration of interest: A small education grant from Eli Lilly was used to design and print copies of the PHC.