Background: Previous studies show that among Black Caribbeans there is a higher prevalence of schizophrenia and higher levels of both voluntary and compulsory admissions. These suggest that Black Caribbean patients may find psychiatric services less appropriate to their needs. The aim of this study was to establish the satisfaction with mental health services of representative psychosis patients in South London, especially in relation to ethnic group.
Method: A random sample of all cases of psychotic disorder identified in the two sectors was interviewed using the Verona Service Satisfaction Schedule. Questionnaires from 50 Black Caribbean patients and 134 White patients were analysed.
Results: Black Caribbean patients, particularly those of second generation born in the UK, were significantly less satisfied with almost every aspect of the services that they received than either older Black Caribbean patients born in the Caribbean or White patients. Using multiple regression analysis it was found that among the younger Black Caribbean patients, unlike the other patients, the number of previous admissions was a significant predictor of dissatisfaction.
Conclusion: Patients' ratings of satisfaction with mental health services are significantly worse for UK-born Black Caribbean than other patients with psychotic disorder in South London.