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Accountability in acute in-patient mental healthcare: advancing structural and cultural change

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Following safety failures and gaps in oversight, acute in-patient mental health services face increasing scrutiny. This article examines accountability, conceptualised as answerability, responsibility and responsiveness, and reviews key strategies. Evidence varies in strength, with strongest support for reducing coercion and measurement systems. Structural and cultural alignment is essential for sustained improvement.

Source: The British Journal of Psychiatry

DOI: 10.1192/bjp.2026.10769

Authors: Corrado Barbui, Charlene Sunkel, Graham Thornicroft

Institutions: University of Verona, King's College London

Language: English

Topic: Healthcare Quality and Management

Subfield: Health Information Management

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Peace, justice, and strong institutions, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W7204935576