Interprofessional care improves health-related well-being and reduces medical costs for chronic pain patients.

ABSTRACT

This study evaluated whether patients with somatic symptom disorder, expressing chronic pain that could not be attributed to a medical condition, would benefit from an 8-week inpatient residence at a psychiatric ward. In the 1-year follow-up after termination the authors examined the extent to which the integrated treatment decreased patient costs. A total of 106 patients participated in the follow-up and reported a significant improvement in their general health (Cohen's d = 1.5-2.21), a decrease in impairment due to pain (d = 2.24), and a decrease in symptom severity (d = 1.29). They took fewer medications and sick days, reported fewer hospital stays and medical examinations, and consulted and changed physicians and outpatient clinics less often (d = 0.55-1.1). The average cost per patient was cut in half, down to € 80,000/$96,000 per year. From a clinical standpoint, group analysis that focused on aggression was the most effective intervention.