The study aims to provide a more complete picture of hospitalizations for suicide attempts in Massachusetts. Data are readily available from the vital statistics death file, and for admissions to acute care hospitals. This study examined data from psychiatric hospitals, a potential source of suicide attempt data. A sample of admissions to psychiatric hospitals indicates that over 60% of those admitted had suicidal ideation or had attempted suicide. A data collection system which includes psychiatric hospitals would yield a more complete picture of suicide attempts in Massachusetts.
Learning Objectives: 1. Understand the limitations of present data on suicide attempts, 2. Assess the feasibility of obtaining data from psychiatric hosptials
Keywords: Suicide, Data Collection
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.