Objective — This article reviews the extent to which epidemiology and disability measurement can con-tribute to mental health and service policy and planning. Methods — The review explores the information required for local, mental and international policy and planning in a variey of settings. Results — Epidemiology and disability measurement are essential to underpin policy and planning that are responsive to local needs, together with information on service inputs and processes and health outcomes. Conclusions — Epidemiology and disability measurement should be an integral part of the policy and planning process to support the development of service, and service processes and the measurement of health outcomes for not only specialist mental heath services, but also activities in primary care, schools and workplaces.
