Gettysburg, PA, May 09, 2018 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nearly 3.4 million adults, or 1.1% of the U.S. population, are affected by schizophrenia.1,2 As a chronic, relapsing condition, those who have schizophrenia may experience worsening of symptoms, repeat hospital stays, and a decrease in medication efficacy – which may contribute to costly care.3,4,5,6Additionally, past relapses may predict an increased risk of future relapses and higher annual mental health care costs.7,8
The Relapse Risk Assessment for Schizophrenia Patients (RASP) was developed as a six-question self-report screener that measures indicators of increased anxiety and social isolation to assess patient stability and predict imminent relapse. The RASP is the result of work sponsored by Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & Commercialization, Inc. (OPDC) and H. Lundbeck A/S. The tool was developed in partnership with leading experts in schizophrenia research and care.
Results of a recent RASP pilot were presented during the 2018 OPEN MINDS Performance Management Institute in Clearwater Beach, Florida. The session, Introducing RASP: Relapse Assessment In Schizophrenia Patients, was presented by Heidi Waters, MBA, PhD, Director of Outcomes Management at Otsuka Development & Commercialization, Inc. (OPDC).
This new, validated, and reliable questionnaire, correctly predicted relapse in 77% of cases.9 The reliability and validity data presented support the use of RASP in settings where the addition of a brief self-report assessment of relapse risk among patients with schizophrenia may be of benefit. Ease of use and scoring, as well as the ability to administer without clinical supervision, allows for routine administration and assessment of relapse risk.
Monica E. Oss, Chief Executive Officer of OPEN MINDS, a market intelligence and management support firm specializing in the sectors of the health and human service field which include behavioral health, said “A big part of dealing with consumers with schizophrenia comes down to addressing relapse. And addressing the early warning signs of relapse is one of the key elements to preventing relapse, which can interfere with quality treatment and increase the cost of care. This tool helps provider organizations implement new programs that focus on reducing relapse with the goal of improving outcomes.”
For more on RASP, including the ability to download the tool, see Relapse Assessment For Schizophrenia Patients (RASP).
ABOUT Otsuka Pharmaceutical Development & OPDC has dedicated itself to the research and clinical development of products that could have a major impact on human health. Since 2007, OPDC has dedicated itself to the research and clinical development of products that could have a major impact on human health. OPDC develops promising drug candidates, starting with clinical trial management, and then planning the strategy for drug approval, marketing, and life cycle management to maximize a product’s full potential. Our focus is on neuroscience, oncology, and cardio-renal therapeutic areas.
ABOUT OPEN MINDS
OPEN MINDS is a national market intelligence and strategic advisory firm focused on the sectors of the health and human service field serving consumers with chronic conditions and complex support needs. Founded in 1987 and based in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, the 175+ associates provide market insights and innovative management solutions designed to improve operational and strategic performance. Learn more at www.openminds.com.
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the 1557 participants and by relapse status].
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