Long-term mental health care in Portugal: A portrait of the first years of activity

Introduction: In Portugal, a reform to implement Long-term mental health care (LTMHC) started in 2017 allowing patients with severe mental illness receiving psychosocial rehabilitation to regain their autonomy and be reintegrated into their communities. Aim: To describe the first steps of the Portuguese LTMHC implementation and to assess the relationship between the LTMHC’s demand (referrals) and supply (vacancies and occupancy). Methods: We conducted a national retrospective observational study to analyse the LTMHC referrals, vacancies and occupancy between mid-2017 (LTMHC establishment) and December 2022. We described and analysed the associated indicators through time and geography, as well as performed a simultaneous regression model to evaluate the relationship between supply and demand. Results: There were 1,192 referrals to the LTMHC, of which 99 (8.3%) were made for childhood and adolescence structures. The maximum support residence (RAMa, ‘Residência de apoio máximo’), designed for patients with higher disabilities, had the highest number of referrals. Additionally, since the opening of vacancies in different institutions, residential structures became quickly saturated. On the other hand, domiciliary services were those with the lowest occupancy. Our estimates support that the vacancies (supply) are induced by the referrals (demand), and referrals are also related to the location of LTMHC facilities. Conclusion: LTMHC is still in the initial stage of development in Portugal, and it is expected to receive financial support through the Recovery and Resilience Programme. According to the occupancy rates and referrals made, residential structures seem to be a priority, being also important to explore the partial use of domiciliary services. The geographical distribution of vacancies can also be a concern, considering the important proximity to the community in LTMHC.