An Assessment of Need for Education: Management of Schizophrenia in Psychiatric Practice

Executive Summary

Patients living with schizophrenia are deeply impacted by disruptions in thought processes, perceptions, and emotional expression that limit their ability to function at home, at work, and in the community. Widespread stigma and negative attitudes towards people with schizophrenia lead to reduced care for psychiatric and physical health problems, while high rates of medical comorbidity, lack of insight, low health literacy, medication adverse effects, poor support networks, and other social, economic, and physical factors also contribute to chronic disability and premature mortality. Nonadherence to treatment is an ongoing predicament and a primary reason for schizophrenia relapse and poor patient outcomes.

Although long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotic use leads to improved adherence, reduced relapse risk, and improved function, especially when utilized early in the disease course, rates of LAI antipsychotic use are low and highly variable. Negative attitudes and stigma about LAIs persist among patients and clinicians, with some psychiatrists continuing to view LAI prescribing as a secondary option.

Psychiatrists and other clinicians engaged in care for patients with schizophrenia, including physician associates (PAs), nurse practitioners (NPs), and pharmacists, need education to increase knowledge and confidence in the role for LAI medications in the management of schizophrenia. They will also benefit from education that builds knowledge of dosing and administration of LAI options and that delivers skills and strategies for patient education and shared decision-making in order to optimize their use.

Schizophrenia_Needs_Assessment_CB.pdf

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