Who we are
The Physical Health in Severe Mental Illness (PHSMI) Team is a specialist team within Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust.
It is dedicated to improving the physical health of adults of all ages living with mental illness under the care of community mental health teams.
Our team comprises:
- Dual Registered Nurses
- Registered Nursing Associates
- Health Care Assistants
- Administrative Staff
They work across Oxfordshire to bridge the gap between mental and physical healthcare.
Who we help
- All patients open to adult mental health teams (AMHT)
- All patients open to older adult mental health teams (OAMHT/CMHT), excluding Memory Clinic
What we do
Operating as a standalone service, we conduct holistic physical health assessments and provide tailored education and liaison support.
Our work spans primary and secondary care settings, with a strong emphasis on collaboration, quality improvement, and reducing diagnostic overshadowing.
Why we do it
People living with severe mental illness — such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, or psychosis — often face serious physical health risks. Our assessments are designed to individuals stay healthier and live longer.
Our team is committed to promoting parity between physical and mental health by empowering and supporting patients with their physical health needs.
People with SMI live 15–20 years less than the general population, mostly due to preventable physical illnesses.
Additionally, people with SMI may be at higher risk for conditions like heart disease, diabetes, liver problems, and cancer.
Medications such as antipsychotics and mood stabilisers can help manage mental health symptoms, but they also have side effects that require regular monitoring. This includes weight gain and changes in blood glucose and cholesterol, which can increase the risk of conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, liver problems, and cancer.
What we offer
- Annual Physical Health Reviews
- High-Dose Antipsychotic Therapy (HDAT) Monitoring
- Electrocardiograms (ECG)
- Phlebotomy (Blood tests)
- Home visits and clinic appointments
- Training and support for healthcare professionals
- Liaison with GPs, hospitals, and other care providers to ensure continuity of care
How to see us
We only accept healthcare professional referrals. However, if you feel you would benefit from our service, please speak to your Key Worker or Consultant Psychiatrist.
Your experience matters
Please take a few minutes to complete the feedback form on I Want Great Care to tell us what you think or review your care, using the access code 6989.
