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Suicide preceded by health services contact

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From Māori Health Review Issue 95
Authors:
  • Chiang A et al.
Summary:

A New Zealand whole-of-population study has determined that contact with a health service in the 6 months prior to death is associated with increased odds of suicide. The study examined all individuals aged at least 15 years who were alive on 5 March 2013, with follow-up to December 2015. Of the suicide decedent population, 59.4% had contacted primary health services, 46.5% had contacted secondary health services, and 30.4% had contacted tertiary health services in the 6 months prior to death. Contact with primary, secondary and tertiary services was associated with odds ratios for suicide of 2.51 (95% CI 2.19-2.88), 4.45 (95% CI 3.69-4.66) and 6.57 (95% CI 5.84-7.38), respectively, compared with those who had no health services contact.

Comment:
Two important points stood out for me here. First, the overall findings about previous contact with health services. As a GP, although the odds were lowest for people accessing primary care, general practices are also the most frequently contacted. Therefore, primary care plays an important role and better support for primary care clinicians to recognise and address suicide risk is key. Second, the excellent reporting on Māori data – what’s missing and why. Readers should take a look at the Discussion.
Reference: PLoS One. 2021;16(12):e0261163.
Abstract
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Independent commentary by Dr. Matire Hardwood

Dr Matire Harwood (Ngapuhi) has worked in Hauora Māori, primary health and rehabilitation settings as clinician and researcher since graduating from Auckland Medical School in 1994. She also holds positions on a number of boards, committees and advisory groups including the Health Research Council. Matire lives in Auckland with her whānau including partner Haunui and two young children Te Rangiura and Waimarie.

Research Review publications are intended for New Zealand health professionals.

Disclaimer: This publication is not intended as a replacement for regular medical education but to assist in the process. The reviews are a summarised interpretation of the published study and reflect the opinion of the writer rather than those of the research group or scientific journal. It is suggested readers review the full trial data before forming a final conclusion on its merits.

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