Magdelene Siow
National Health Group, Singapore
Characteristics and Outcomes of Individuals Referred by CRT to IMH ES in 2023
Biography
Dr Magdelene Siow is a psychiatry resident currently training and working within Singapore’s public healthcare system.
Abstract
Objectives
and Scope:
The Singaporean Crisis and Response Team (CRT) supports
individuals in the community with mental health crises. Working closely with
the Institute of Mental Health Emergency Services (IMH ES), the CRT refers
at-risk individuals to IMH ES for further psychiatric evaluation. This study
aims to describe the characteristics and outcomes of individuals who were
referred by the CRT to IMH ES in 2023.
Methods:
Data was collected from the Mental Health Hotline’s records of police referrals.
Results:
The CRT engaged with 4427 cases in 2023, of which 2598 were
brought to IMH ES. Of the 2598 cases assessed in IMH ES, 884 were admitted, 228
were placed in a 24-hour observation unit, 1409 were discharged, 67 were
transferred to a restructured hospital for further medical management, and 10
had unknown dispositions. Of the 884 admitted, 411 were involuntary admissions
under the Singapore Mental Health (Care and Treatment) Act (MHCTA). With regard
to the ages of those admitted, 173 were below 21 years old, 355 were between 21
and 40 years old, 217 were between 41 to 60 years old and 126 were above 60
years old. Of the 1409 discharged, 607 were given a subsequent outpatient
appointment.
Conclusions:
These findings showcase the significance of collaboration between the CRT
and IMH to provide timely intervention for at risk individuals in the
community. By serving as a reflection of real-world clinical experiences at
Singapore’s only tertiary psychiatric institution, these findings can help
identify
trends
in patient needs and assess the adequacy of available resources.
23-24 Nov 2026 
Bangkok, Thailand 
