The so-called sectorization of the psychiatric care system has been connected with deinstitutionalization and possibly also a forced discharge from hospital for some long-term inpatients. In Gävleborg County 96 patients who had been hospitalized for at least 1 year were discharged in the years 1984-88, when the reduction of hospital beds was at its peak. Their situation was investigated in the autumn of 1989, when members of the psychiatric staff evaluated their living conditions and asked the patients to complete a questionnaire. At that time 19 patients had been readmitted to hospital, 4 had moved to other parts of the country, and 3 were dead. Thus at least 70 were still living outside institutions, but 2 of these could not be reached. The material consists of the other 68 patients. Forty of them were diagnosed as being schizophrenic. Twenty-two patients had spent some time in hospital after the index discharge. Forty-three lived in their own lodgings, 14 in group homes, and 11 in homes for the elderly. Forty-one lived alone, and this was more often the case for male patients. Only one had a job and earned his living, but 41 took part in some organized activity like work therapy or study groups. About 50% of the patients had regular contact (at least once a month) with the local psychiatric department, and the same frequency was noted for regular contact with the district nurses. Only seven patients had no such contacts. According to the staffs judgement, about two of three patients had enough psychosocial support and a satisfactory quality of life. Resources for rehabilitation, activation, and social contacts were reported to be inadequate. The patients had a more positive view and were largely satisfied with their living conditions. Only four wanted to return to the hospital. The schizophrenic patients tended to have a more satisfactory life situation according to the staff, and they were also rehospitalized less frequently than other patient categories. There is a notable group of chronically ill patients with other psychiatric diagnoses, which need as much support as the schizophrenic group. When resources are lacking, the need for cooperation with social authorities, primary care, and clients' organizations is apparent.