Background and Objectives: The readmission rate has been considered as a promising variable to evaluate the efficacy of the mental health system. Considering the lack of literature on the subject in Portugal, it is important to characterize it further in order to validate its meaning as a variable. The aim of this analysis was to characterize readmissions to Júlio de Matos Hospital (JMH), in comparison with the single admissions. Methods: This analysis was made through the review of the clinical files of patients admitted over a period of 21 months. Results: Of the 3,225 patients admitted in this period, 1,276 (39.6) were readmissions. Furthermore, a readmitted patient was admitted, on average, 2.6 times during the study timeframe. The results show a reduced social involvement, an increased prior institutionalization and an increased incidence of "Schizophrenic Psychosis" and "Abnormal Personalities" in the sub-group of repeated admissions. Conclusions: These findings are similar to those obtained in other European countries and strengthen the need for psychosocial and specific interventions at outpatient level. This analysis also shows the value of monitoring the relevant variables to tailor the intervention of the institutions.
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