Effectiveness of Mental Health Services at Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital Rwanda

Abstract Background Mental health remains a pressing public health issue worldwide, with increasing prevalence in low- and middle-income countries, including Rwanda. Despite efforts to integrate mental health services within primary healthcare, challenges remain in service delivery and utilization. This study assessed the effectiveness of mental health services at Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital in Rwanda, focusing on service accessibility, quality of care, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes. Methods A descriptive case study using a mixed-methods approach was conducted. 15 respondents were included, comprising 89 mental health patients and 16 next-of-kin. Yamane’s formula was used to determine the sample size, and an interview-assisted questionnaire was used to collect data. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with selected participants. Data were analyzed using SPSS (v. 25) for quantitative data and content analysis for qualitative data. Results Across genders, 52.4% were female, while the male counterparts were 47.6%. The majority of patients (83.8%) accessed services monthly, and 65.7% found them easily accessible. Satisfaction with provider professionalism (80.9%), treatment effectiveness (74.3%), and follow-up care (71.4%) was reported. A significant proportion (93.5%) reported improved mental health outcomes, and 89.6% indicated that the services helped them manage their conditions effectively. Key challenges identified included long waiting times, drug shortages, limited provider availability, transportation costs, and inadequate follow-up. Cultural stigma and traditional beliefs were also barriers to care. Conclusion Mental health services at the Rwamagana Level II Teaching Hospital are largely effective and positively perceived. However, systemic and demographic barriers hinder optimal service delivery. Addressing these issues through decentralization, workforce strengthening, continuous medication supply, and stigma reduction is critical to improving mental healthcare access and outcomes in the region.