Geographical Variation in GP drug prescribing for Schizophrenia and similar psychosis in England

Visualising and analysing geographical patterns in mental illness can be a starting point for understanding and creating effective policy around inequalities and how to resolve them. This research note looks at geographical variations in GP prescribing for Schizophrenia and similar psychosis using open Presentation-level Data for England downloaded from NHS Digital. We found considerable geographical variation in both the level of prescribing per thousand population at Local Authority level and in the rate of change measured over five years. There is a statistically significant north-south divide in prescribing. We have used social marketing geodemographics to explore possible correlates with the geographical patterns. Highest positive correlations shows links to deprivation and less healthy lifestyle choices. Seeing the geographical variation is in itself informative and a potential eye-opener. In doing so, new questions can be asked of the data, practice and policy