This study used a cross-sectional survey design to collect data
over an 18-month period in 2007-2008. Individuals were
eligible for this study if they met three criteria: at least
18 years old, living in Nantou County (a rural area of central
Taiwan), and enrolled in 2007 in Taiwan’s NHI program
with a diagnosis of schizophrenia. These criteria were met by
1840 clients with schizophrenia who were managed by
community-based nurses at 12 public health centres covering
all areas of Nantou County. Of these 1840 clients, 1655
agreed to participate and were evaluated for this study, for a
response rate of 89Æ95%.