In 1984 the Psychiatric Andalusian Reform began, with the objective of replacing the institutionalization manicomial system with an alternative model of integrated network of services, based on the community. This carried a dramatic reduction of inpatient beds and subsequent increase in pressure on available beds in hospitalisation units, as well as the appearance of a higher risk of readmission.

The purpose of this retrospective study is to identify clinical and demographic variables that correlated with readmission in our Psychiatry Unit, over a two year period (from January 2006 to December 2008).

Data were abstracted from medical records for retrospective analysis. Repeat users were defined as those individuals receiving two or more inpatient admissions to our Psychiatry Unit during the study period. Statistical comparisons were made between repeat and single admission groups to identify variables predictive of rehospitalization, such as age, gender, diagnosis, comorbidity of mood and personality disorders, alcohol dependence / abuse, number of previous admissions, number of compulsory admissions, length of admission and treatment among others.

Most important predictors for readmissions included age, previous psychiatric admission, alcohol and illegal substance dependence / abuse, comorbidity of personality disorder and early drop-out of treatment.

Our results indicated that there are several factors involved in a higher risk of readmission in our Psychiatry Unit. By identifying predictors of readmission and intervening appropriately, unnecessary readmission may be prevented.