نبذة مختصرة : Introduction: The mental health needs of chronically ill individuals have been a persistent challenge in public health, further exacerbated by the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study explores changes in mental health service utilization among this population in Poland across three periods: pre-pandemic (2018–2019), pandemic (2020–2021), and post-pandemic (2022–2023). The aim of the study was to analyze trends in the use of mental health services by chronically ill individuals, identify regional and diagnostic disparities, as well as assess the impact of the pandemic on service delivery. Material and methods: This retrospective observational study utilized anonymized data from the National Health Fund (Narodowy Fundusz Zdrowia – NFZ) database. It included the annual number of patients, service types, regional distribution, and diagnoses. Statistical analyses assessed the differences across periods and regions, including t-tests, chi-square tests, and ANOVA. Results: Mental health service utilization increased by 40% during the pandemic compared to the pre-pandemic period, with teleconsultations rising to 50% of services. Post-pandemic utilization decreased by 15% but remained 20% higher than the pre-pandemic levels. Significant regional disparities were noted, with urban areas experiencing greater increases in service use than rural regions. Cancer-related, respiratory, and cardiovascular conditions accounted for the most significant rises in patient numbers. Conclusions: The pandemic significantly altered the landscape of mental health service delivery for chronically ill individuals. Sustaining innovations like telehealth and addressing regional disparities are crucial to ensure equitable access to care and meet the ongoing mental health needs of this vulnerable population.
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