중증정신질환자의 정신의료기관 이용과 관련된 동료지원 서비스에 대한 체계적 문헌고찰

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to systematically review peer support services related to mental health services utilization by people with severe mental illness and to identify core strategies essential for effective peer support services. Methods: A systematic search was conducted using keywords in English, 4 electronic databases, including CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PubMed. Of the 1,305 publications identified, 14 studies were finally included in this systematic review. The Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) was used for the quality assessment. Results: The 14 studies consisted of 8 randomized controlled trials (RCTs), 4 cohort studies, and 2 quasi-experimental studies. Overall, peer support services were found to be effective in reducing hospitalization rates, hospitalization days, number of emergency room visits, and total medical costs. There was inconsistent evidence that the services were associated with positive effects on measures of psychiatric symptoms, quality of life, and social support. Conclusion: Peer support services for people with severe mental illness can be a cost-effective way to increase crisis stabilization and continuity of treatment. The core strategies of the services is the development of structured programs to cultivate professional peer providers and the establishment of a cooperative system between mental health professionals and peer providers.