In Ireland, regularly reviewed Individual Care Plans (ICPs) for inpatients at all acute psychiatric inpatient units are a requirement of the Mental Health Act 2001. In this study, we comprehensively evaluated and compared opinions of key stakeholders in relation to the ICP as a care delivery tool.

We employed a descriptive survey design. Questionnaires were distributed to 123 stakeholders (patients and mental health professionals (MHPs)) to evaluate and compare opinions regarding the impact of the ICP in relation to healthcare delivery and health outcomes, and regarding the structure and frequency of use of the ICP.

Ninety-eight stakeholders (80%) completed study questionnaires. Stakeholders (patients (58%) and MHPs (85%)) reported that the ICP assisted in healthcare delivery. However, different attitudes between groups were noted in relation to whether the ICP contributed towards healthcare outcomes, with 64% of patients, but only 41% of MHPs reporting that the ICP positively contributed to mental healthcare outcomes. Some free-text comments described patient dissatisfaction with the role of the ICP for healthcare delivery, and MHP dissatisfaction that the ICP was time-consuming and did not significantly enhance standard patient care.

Whilst the implementation of the ICP is generally viewed positively by both patients and MHPs, considerable dissatisfaction by MHPs was also noted with certain aspects of how the ICP was delivered in practice. Practical adjustments to the implementation of ICP in order to build more positive stakeholder experiences appear warranted and worthy of further research.