Defaulter rates Comparison with other studies .1 Readmission rates

67 Efective Implementation of a Structured Psychoeducation Programme among Caregivers of Schizophrenia Patients in the Community on top of their daily responsibilities. All staffs responded that they would like to be given an incentive, whether financially or by time off.

5.4 Limitations of the study

The small sample size of the study limited the analysis of the mediating variables to identify therapeutic mechanisms of the psychoeducation group programme. In addition, the study had a relatively short period of follow-up of 6 months. This short follow-up period limited further assessment of the impact of the intervention on outcomes such as relapse and defaulter rates. Despite the success of the psychoeducation programme, it was not standardised in every clinic. In some clinics, it was done in small groups and in others, it was done one-to-one. The equipments to deliver the modules also varied among the clinics. These variations might affect the knowledge received by the caregivers. The researchers also acknowledged the fact that the staffs had difficulty carrying out the programme because they had other work responsibilities.

6.0 CONCLUSION RECOMMENDATIONS

6.1 Conclusion

The study showed that a structured psychoeducation programme among caregivers of patient with schizophrenia can be effectively implemented in the community. The programme significantly improved and sustained the knowledge about schizophrenia, decreased the caregivers’ burden in daily living assistance and improved compliance to follow up. Staff involved in the program found that the programme was feasible and are keen for its implementation. The small sample size and the short duration of this study limit the achievement of the study objectives. These findings warrant further evaluation of this type of intervention and its therapeutic mechanisms.

6.2 Recommendations

Based on the study findings, the researchers would like to make the following recommendations: 1. To introduce and implement a psychoeducation programme in all primary health centres. To ensure success, the module needs to be revised and its delivery standardised prior to implementation. It is suggested that the module be taught for every newly diagnosed schizophrenia patient and the caregiver. The module should be repeated after the first 2 years and then every 5 years. 2. If the need arises to repeat the study it should be carried out for a longer duration and with a larger sample.