Specialist services inadequate for children with psychiatric problems
One in five children in Ireland has a psychiatric or behavioural problem. Only 15 of the recommended 156 in-patient beds exist for those under 16 years of age with psychiatric or behavioural problems. These beds are located in Dublin and Galway only.
The existing beds facilitate assessment and elective admissions. However, acute admissions are not facilitated.
Consequently, adolescents with behavioural or psychiatric problems are cared for in paediatric or adult psychiatric units which are inappropriate and do not meet their specific requirements. Some children are transferred to Britain for in-patient treatment, adding to the financial burden of the HSE and the taxpayer. Dedicated in-patient facilities are essential. This is supported by the Association for the Welfare of Children in Hospital (Ireland) and the Irish College of Psychiatrists.
Ireland has just 62 child and adolescent psychiatrists, as opposed to the 150 required. Waiting time to see a child psychiatrist in Dublin is 18 months on average. Furthermore, funding for mental health is only 6.8% of the health budget. Individuals involved in the care of children and adolescents must respect their rights as outlined in the Convention on the Rights of the Child which says that State parties must “recognise the right of the child to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health and to facilities for the treatment of illness and rehabilitation of health”.
In terms of dedicated adolescent units, numbers of consultants and funding for adolescents with psychiatric or behavioural problems, we have not yet realised this vision.
Ann Cummins
61 Weston View
Ballinrea Road
Carrigaline
Co Cork
