Service Use for Patients with Adjustment Disorder and Short Term Treatment: A Brief Report

Objective: To examine adjustment disorder by describing service utilization patterns for patients from a managed behavioral health organization (MBHO), and by comparing clinical outcomes for those who completed treatment within 6 months versus those who continued beyond 6 months. Methods: Administrative claims data from 2001 through 2003 were merged with survey data (at baseline, 6 weeks, and 6 months post-intake) and retrospectively analyzed for 211 MHBO patients with an exclusive diagnosis of adjustment disorder. Results: Fifty-four percent (n = 115) were in treatment for up to 6 months, 46% (n = 96) were in treatment up to 12 months or longer, with 20% (n = 19) treated continuously for two years. Despite similarities in demographics, clinician-types, and clinical symptoms at baseline, patients treated for 12 months or longer had significantly worse outcomes and higher costs. Conclusions: Short-term outpatient services for adjustment disorder may not be the norm among MBHO-covered patients and some may necessitate further evaluation and clinical care.