Search

This chapter proposes that using knowledge about the implementation of change in organizations can facilitate the implementation of evidence-based practices in forensic mental health services. It explains a case study, during a 20-year period, to implement the use of different versions of HCR-20 in Vitos Haina Forensic Psychiatric Hospital, Haina, Germany. Forensic mental health services aim to reduce symptoms of mental disorders and antisocial, aggressive, and violent behaviors, and increase psychosocial functioning. In mental health services generally, and in forensic mental health, there is a wide gap between available evidence on effective assessment, treatment, and management strategies and clinical services. Performance implementation produces actual benefits to consumers, organizations, and systems, and requires careful and thoughtful efforts. Evidence-based practice refers to assessment tools that have been proven to be valid and treatment and management strategies that have proven efficacy and effectiveness. Efficacy is achieved when a study shows that a new treatment leads to a better outcome than treatment as usual.