Comparison of HoNOS and HoNOS-Secure in a forensic mental health hospital. Issue 6 (1st November 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shinkfield, Gregg; Ogloff, James
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic psychiatry & psychology. Volume 27:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 867
• Page End: 885
• Publication Date: 2016-11-01
• Subjects: HoNOS -- HoNOS-Secure -- outcome measure -- forensic mental health; Forensic psychiatry -- Periodicals; Forensic psychology -- Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1080/14789949.2016.1244278
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1478-9949

Abstract

Abstract: The Health of the Nation Outcome Scale (HoNOS) is a widely used tool for monitoring consumer outcomes within mental health services. However, concern about its suitability in forensic mental health settings led to the development of a forensic version of this tool (HoNOS-Secure). To date, no direct comparison of these versions has appeared in the empirical literature. In the present study, a cohort of forensic mental health consumers was rated using the HoNOS and HoNOS-Secure. Pearson correlations were generated to compare the tools at a total score and item level. Logistic regression was employed to evaluate how well these tools categorise patients on a range of measurable outcomes. HoNOS scores were also compared against civil mental health consumers to evaluate differences between these populations. The HoNOS/HoNOS-Secure correlated strongly at the total score level, but demonstrated variable correlations at the item level. Logistic regression suggested that the HoNOS-Secure 'clinical and social functioning scale' adds little to the HoNOS in a forensic setting; however, the HoNOS-Secure 'security scale' added significant benefit to both versions. Results remained stable when re-evaluated over time. Forensic and civil mental health patients were found to demonstrate the same degree of psychopathology at the point of admission; however, they differed at review and discharge collection occasions. Implications for clinical practice and policy are explored.