Effectiveness of a Multidisciplinary Expertise Team in the reduction of restrictive measures in sheltered care homes for people with an intellectual disability

Background: Minimizing restrictive measures is an important lever to promote self-determination for people with intellectual disabilities. Aims: This study assesses the efficacy of the Multidisciplinary Expertise Team (MDET) program in reducing such measures within Dutch sheltered care homes for people with intellectual disabilities. Methods and Procedures: A clustered randomized trial encompassed 30 residential units, reporting 428 measures on 107 residents through an organization-wide registration system. Units were randomly assigned to the MDET program or care-as-usual. Outcomes and Results: Units assigned to the MDET-program reported a significant stronger reduction in restrictive measures compared to the care-as-usual units (40% versus 20%). Conclusions and Implications: The MDET program shows promise in decreasing restrictive measures by enhancing awareness and sharing expertise across disciplines at staff and resident levels.