Psychiatric patients discharged prematurely amid bed shortage in Denmark

Psychiatric patients are still being discharged prematurely due to a shortage of beds, and the overall treatment in psychiatry has not improved, according to a recent survey conducted among psychiatric doctors. The findings reveal a stagnation in the field despite the implementation of a major mental health plan two years ago, which was backed by nearly all political parties and promised an additional 1.1 billion DKK from 2023 onward.

Many doctors report that psychiatric patients are discharged early to make room for more severely ill individuals. This practice increases the risk of readmission, self-harm, and suicide, with data showing that the rate of readmissions within 30 days has risen from 21% in 2014 to 26% in 2023. Additionally, in 2023, nearly 16,000 psychiatric patients were readmitted.

The survey highlighted significant concerns among psychiatric professionals: 87% believe there is insufficient capacity for quick assessments and treatments, 83% feel patients would benefit from earlier intervention, and 77% cite insufficient bed space. Furthermore, 72% of doctors experience the early discharge of patients on a regular basis.

While some improvements have been noted in prioritized areas such as child and youth psychiatry, many argue that these changes have yet to produce a noticeable impact for patients and staff. Financial constraints have also affected staffing, with 38% of doctors reporting budget cuts or hiring freezes in the past two years.

The health minister acknowledged the frustration of patients and staff but emphasized the need for time to address issues that have been neglected for years. The government is committed to significant investments in mental health services for the benefit of both patients and healthcare workers.