Partial Hospitalisation Programme
Also written as: PHP — Partial Hospitalisation Programme
A structured, time-limited outpatient psychiatric programme providing intensive therapeutic services for several hours per day without overnight stays.
Full Definition
A Partial Hospitalisation Programme (PHP) is a step-down or step-up psychiatric treatment option that offers intensive, structured therapeutic services—typically four to six hours per day, five days per week—without requiring the patient to reside in the facility overnight. PHPs bridge the gap between inpatient hospitalisation and standard outpatient care, providing group therapy, medication management, and skills training. In editorial documents, 'PHP' must not be confused with 'PHP' in other industries (e.g., a scripting language). American English usage favours 'program' while British-influenced style guides retain 'programme'; editors should follow the house style of the institution consistently.
Usage
Usage note: Editors should verify whether the house style uses 'program' (US) or 'programme' (UK/international) and apply consistently. 'PHP' should be spelled out on first use.
In Context
- "Following discharge from the inpatient unit, the patient was referred to the partial hospitalisation programme for continued stabilisation." — Discharge summary
- "PHP attendance records must be maintained for a minimum of seven years per state regulation." — Compliance manual