Evaluation of a multi-element treatment center for early psychosis in the United States

Purpose A growing body of research has demonstrated the potential for comprehensive, phase-specific care to improve clinical and functional outcomes in early psychosis. However, there have been no evaluations of such treatment models in the United States (US). This study is a naturalistic, prospective 1-year follow-up of an early psychosis cohort treated in one of the first US-based multi-element treatment centers. Methods Participants were 163 individuals treated at the Outreach and Support Intervention Services (OASIS) clinic, a multi-element treatment center for early psychosis. Data were collected as part of routine care at 6-month intervals. Primary outcomes included role functioning and involvement in work or school. Results Over the course of 1 year of treatment, individuals experienced significant improvements in positive and negative symptoms, role functioning, and global functioning. The proportion of individuals meeting symptom remission and functional remission criteria increased significantly from baseline to 1 year, as did the proportion of individuals attending school. There were also trend-level reductions in substance abuse. Conclusions This study provides preliminary support for the efficacy of comprehensive early intervention services in the US.