Cost-Effectiveness of Implementing a Suicide Prediction Tool (OxMIS) in Severe Mental Illness

This project explores the introduction of a suicide risk prediction tool called the Oxford Mental Illness and Suicide (OxMIS) into psychiatric services for patients with severe mental illness (SMI), such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. These individuals face a significantly higher risk of suicide compared to the general population. Assessing the risk of suicide and linking this assessment to preventative measures is a central component of clinical care. The research aims to understand if using OxMIS can save costs while effectively assessing suicide risk in these patients.

The study uses secondary data to create a model comparing the potential cost-savings and effectiveness of OxMIS against usual care practices over one year. Findings suggest that implementing OxMIS could save around £300 per patient assessed, providing a promising option for improving mental health services and patient care. The project's outcomes are expected to inform decisions on integrating OxMIS into routine psychiatric care, aiming to improve the quality of mental health services and patient outcomes.