Effectiveness of short interventions in trauma outpatient centers An evaluation in Baden-Wurttemberg including the victim compensation offices

Background From 2014 onwards Baden-Wurttemberg commissioned the prospective evaluation of five model trauma outpatient services in cooperation with the victim compensation offices. Objective The focus of this study was on the effectiveness of a brief intervention and the satisfaction of the healthcare authorities with the cooperation. Methods During the study period 2014-2017 a total of 122 patients could be included and were psychometrically assessed at 2 further measurement points (post n = 90, follow-up n = 32). During the follow-up a qualitative evaluation of the mental state and everyday life of the participants was carried out. Results The early trauma-specific intervention showed positive effects after an average of five sessions in terms of reduction of posttraumatic symptoms and improved psychosocial functioning. At follow-up (limited by a high drop-out rate) we found only minor declines in posttraumatic symptoms. Participants primarily reported long waiting periods for the next psychotherapy as well as pending court hearings and not finalized procedures under the Victim Compensation Act (OEG) as major problems. The victim compensation offices rated the cooperation as highly satisfactory, except for procedures taking too long. Additionally, a psychiatric expertise was often still necessary. Conclusion A brief intervention can help to stabilize trauma patients but cannot achieve complete recovery in five sessions. Ongoing psychological attendance should be provided in a continuity of care without long waiting periods. We recommend close cooperation with the victim compensation offices while overcoming data protection issues. Some of the problems mentioned by patients, such as the recognition of the traumatic situation as a violent crime, will be overcome by the new OEG.