A study of 250 patients referred to a department of psychiatry for the deaf.

250 patients referred to a department of psychiatry for the deaf were selected by random sampling and studied. The results underline the need for specialised services for deaf patients of all types, not only those who communicate solely by manual methods. Patients are referred to this department suffering from mental illness and communication disorders, as well as from problems related to their deafness. Some of the difficulties of managing a supra-regional service are discussed.