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KMID : 1035420220100020049
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Journal of The Korean Society of Integrative Medicine
2022 Volume.10 No. 2 p.49 ~ p.59
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Health Condition of Residents of Mental Health Sanatoriums and Policy Options
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Jo Han-Jin
Lee Seung-Hong
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Abstract
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Purpose : The purpose of this study is to directly understand the health condition of residents of mental health sanatoriums nationwide, which has been difficult to ascertain in surveys conducted to date. The study presents specific measures for improving the health of these residents.
Methods : A "physical examination questionnaire for residents of mental health sanatoriums" was developed to check the basic physical condition of residents, and 20 out of 59 mental health sanatoriums nationwide were randomly selected. Medical personnel visited the sanatoriums, interviewing and examining the residents in person. A total of 396 health surveys were completed.
Results : Many of the residents were underweight but had abdominal obesity. It was confirmed that chronic diseases among the residents were not diagnosed early or were not properly managed. Among the subjective symptoms complained of by the residents, musculoskeletal symptoms were the most common. Oral examinations revealed a serious level of oral health problems among the residents, including dental caries and missing teeth. Basic physical examinations found health problems that required additional examination or medical treatment. Blood pressure abnormalities made up the highest percentage of the health problems.
Conclusion : Regular health surveys are needed to determine the health condition of residents of mental health sanatoriums. Access to and quality of primary medical services within the sanatoriums need to be dramatically improved. A delivery system for severe diseases and emergency medical care in the sanatoriums should also be specifically presented. The residents should be notified upon admission and during their stay that they have the right to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of mental and physical health. The issue of health rights should be addressed within a larger framework of reorganizing management plans for people in the community ― not only residents ― with chronic mental illness.
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KEYWORD
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health condition, mental health sanatoriums, right to health
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