Factors Affecting Re-hospitalization of Schizophrenic Patients at Benha Mental Health Hospital ABSTRACT Background: Re-hospitalization is considered a big problem, a source of frustration and suffering for both patients and their families because this phenomenon also negatively affects health care system due to the increasing cost of care. Aim of the study: This study aimed to assess factors affecting re-hospitalization of schizophrenic patients at Benha Mental Health Hospital. Design: A descriptive design was utilized to achieve the aim of the study. Setting: The study was conducted at Benha Mental Health Hospital which is affiliated to General Secretariat. Sample: a convenience sample of 60 schizophrenic patients (46 male, 14 female patients) who were hospitalized at the above mentioned setting. Tools: A structured interviewing questionnaire schedule consisting of two parts: to assess socio-demographic characteristics, clinical data of schizophrenic patients, and their knowledge about factors affecting re-hospitalization. Results: Findings demonstrated that more than three quarters of the studied schizophrenic patients had poor knowledge about factors affecting re-hospitalization. Conclusion: There are many factors affecting re-hospitalization of studied schizophrenic patients such as non compliance with medications, negligence of follow up after discharge, poor relationship between patients and their families and poor relationship with the hospital staff. The study recommended that discharged schizophrenic patients should be followed up on an ongoing basis throughout- patients' appointments, home visits or telephone calls to reduce patients' re-admission to hospital. Key words: Schizophrenia, Risk Factors, Re-hospitalization The Candidate Hend Ahmed Mostafa Hassinine