Optimizing Long-term Care in Schizophrenia: Tailoring Treatment and Enhancing Adherence to Improve Outcomes

Target Audience
This activity is intended for psychiatrists and related mental health clinicians.
There are no prerequisites for this educational activity.

Statement of Need
Schizophrenia is a chronic psychiatric illness characterized by significant cognitive and emotional disruptions, and often progressive loss of self-care and social functioning.1 In the United States nearly 2.4 million adults over the age of 18 have received a diagnosis of schizophrenia, making it one of the most costly mental illnesses.2,3 Despite its prevalence and burdens, studies indicate that only about a third of patients with schizophrenia receive adequate care—owing in part to the complex clinical decisions necessary to address patient-specific needs.4 Another major hurdle is poor treatment adherence, which has been reported in approximately 40% of patients; consequences include higher rates of relapse, rehospitalization, violent behavior, suicidality, and poor functional outcomes.5 Not surprisingly, psychiatrists and other clinicians who manage mental health disorders face many diagnostic and therapeutic challenges with schizophrenia. This educational activity reviews evidence-based recommendations for structured assessment and tailored therapy. Early disease recognition, ongoing monitoring, and good treatment adherence can improve long-term functional and quality-of-life outcomes for patients with schizophrenia.

Educational Objectives
After completing this activity, the participant should be better able to:
1. Describe the benefits, risks, and shortcomings of currently available pharmacologic modalities for patients with schizophrenia
2. Explain the impact of adherence on patients and be able to develop a treatment regimen to maximize adherence