London, July 24 - Actress Mischa Barton is showing signs of improvement in hospital and could return to work by the end of next week.

The former 'OC' star was rushed to Cedars-Sinai Medical Centre's psychiatric department last Wednesday after Los Angeles police took her from her home for an unconfirmed medical problem, reported mirror.co.uk.

'Mischa is improving and still under care, with the intentions of being able to resume production on 'The Beautiful Life' next week,' said her publicist Craig Schneider.

Production on the new drama set in the fashion industry was delayed from July 22 to July 31.