[Use of medical inpatient services by heavy users: a case of hypochondriasis]

Neuropsychiatr. 2012;26(4):192-5. doi: 10.1007/s40211-012-0043-5. Epub 2012 Nov 6.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Hypochondriasis is defined by ICD-10 and DSM-IV through the persistent preoccupation with the possibility of having one or more serious and progressive physical disorders. Patients suffering from hypochondriasis can be responsible for a high utilization of mental health system services. Data have shown that "Heavy User" require a disproportionate part of inpatient admissions and mental health budget costs. We assume that a psychotherapeutic approach, targeting a cognitive behavioral model in combination with neuropsychopharmacological treatment is useful. In our case report we present the "Heavy Using-Phenomenon" based on a patient hospitalized predominantly in neurological inpatient care facilities. From a medical point of view we want to point out to possible treatment errors, on the other hand we want to make aware of financial-socioeconomic factors leading to a massive burden on the global mental health budget.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders
  • Humans
  • Hypochondriasis*
  • Inpatients*
  • International Classification of Diseases
  • Mental Disorders / psychology
  • Mental Health Services / statistics & numerical data