Comparison of the clinical profile in psychiatric emergency services between a single-specialty and a multi-specialty hospital: a retrospective analysis in light of the National Mental Health Law No. 26,657

Abstract

This study compares the clinical, sociodemographic, and care-related characteristics of patients treated in the psychiatric emergency services of a monovalent hospital (Centro Regional de Salud Mental Agudo Ávila) and a general hospital (Hospital Provincial del Centenario), both located in the city of Rosario. The research is framed within the Ley Nacional de Salud Mental N.º 26.657, more than a decade after its regulation, aiming to assess its impact on the management of psychiatric emergencies. An observational, retrospective, and descriptive design was used. Data were collected between September 2024 and February 2025 through Google Forms completed by psychiatry residents. Variables analyzed included age, gender, housing situation, reason for consultation, presumptive diagnosis, type of admission and discharge, substance use, treatment provided, and referral. The results revealed significant differences: the monovalent hospital primarily attended patients with psychosis, high substance use, and homelessness, while the general hospital more frequently dealt with anxiety disorders and panic crises. Moreover, a higher rate of referrals and psychopharmacological treatments was observed in the general hospital. These findings suggest that, despite normative advances, an unequal distribution of care persists, with a greater assistential burden on monovalent institutions. This study contributes to the ongoing reflection on the challenges that remain for the full implementation of the community-based mental health model in Argentina.