Evaluating the maturation of mental health systems in developing countries

Background Given the need for a simple tool to evaluate mental healthcare provision at local level, we compared duration of untreated illness (DUM) and psychosis (DUP) between rural urban areas in Cambodia, Cambodia's DUP was also with that other countries. Methods DUM background data were obtained first consultation from 940 participants Phnom Penh (PP), capital city, Siem Reap province (SR) 2016–2017. by excluding individuals nonpsychotic illnesses (e.g., mood disorders, neurotic substance use, epilepsy). Student's t-test used compare DUP, analysis variance conducted identify associations. Results Mean significantly differed PP (0.6 [SD 2.3] years) SR (4.2 [5.9] years). different (0.5 [2.2] years vs. 4.3 [6.7] SR). strongly associated DUP. The prevalence various disorders areas. varied diagnosis, indicating is better index than DUM. However, some cases can be used, given its strong association almost same as developed countries about four times longer SR. Conclusion much developing Although an effective index, more places before/after interventions are required verify it further.