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The aim of this study was to identify the symptoms, disabilities and needs of schizophre­nic outpatients. Fifty schizophrenic outpatients (5% sample, 31 males and 19 females; mean age 43 years) receiving maintenance depot neurolep­tic therapy were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. The patients were interviewed using stan­dardized scales. The female patients were found to have been employed for a longer period than males (p<0.01). Most patients had disability pension and lived with their parents, while fema­les had more frequent contacts with their partners than with their parents. The quality of life was posi­tively correlated with female sex, broader social network and longer period of employment. The most frequently reported needs referred to the management of psychotic symptoms and physi­cal health, company, housekeeping skills and preparation of meals. The patients’ needs were not satisfied in the following areas: company, information about the condition and treatment, accommodation, physical health, daytime activi­ties, psychological distress, money, benefits, sexual expression. Local services proved inade­quate, particularly as concerns the management of psychotic symptoms. The patients were more satisfied with the role of of their relatives and friends in satisfying their social needs. It was found that the patients were poorly informed about the available services; therefore more emp­hasis should be placed on this aspect of patient education. Further research should be directed to the evaluation of the complementarity of diffe­rent services, as well as to the formulation of strategies for a more effective service provision.