Feasibility of Using the Omaha System for Assessment to Determine Optimal Living Situation for Persons with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness - Abstract
Background: Severe and persistent mental illness (SMPI) causes personal and financial challenges for individuals, their families, and their communities. Effective, interoperable methods are needed to evaluate individuals with SPMI for successful independent living, to avoid relapse and hospitalization. The Omaha System provides a comprehensive method for assessment, evaluation, and data interoperability across community and inpatient settings that is amenable for use in electronic health records (EHRs).
Objective: To examine the feasibility of using the Omaha System in SPMI client assessment to inform decisions regarding the optimal living situation.
Methods: A comprehensive, holistic case analysis of a man with SMPI living in a large group home in an urban community included two client interviews, medical record review, and discussions with health care professionals regarding the client’s health status. Data were recorded using the Omaha System. Analysis employed nonparametric statistics to compare Knowledge, Behavior, and Status ratings (1=lowest – 5=highest) across nine problems.
Conclusions: This case study data demonstrated feasibility of using the Omaha System for SMPI assessment to provide a foundation for decision making regarding housing or placement. Results of data analysis revealed a significant gap between client Knowledge (2.22), Behavior (3.11), and Status (3.67) ratings. This evidence supports the group home environment placement for this client, especially supportive interventions for medication compliance, activities of daily living, and relating to others in community. Further research is needed to evaluate routine use of the Omaha System in EHRs to assess individuals with SPMI, evaluate their needs, exchange data, and support care across settings.