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Mental Health Services Provision

Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 12 February 2013

Tuesday, 12 February 2013

Questions (660)

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Question:

660. Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health if he will work in conjunction with the Health Service Executive to ensure the implementation of the strong recommendation of the jury in an inquest in Wexford (details supplied) that families of vulnerable patients be informed prior to release from any institution so they may put a support plan in place, as outlined by letter of 31 January 2013 from the Wexford County Coroner to the HSE director of mental health. [6849/13]

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Written answers

The active inclusion of family members in the treatment of patients with a mental illness is the preferred model of engagement and is encouraged where appropriate; however some service users do not welcome or consent to this approach and in a lot of routine situations it is not appropriate or necessary. The issue of confidentiality is central to the doctor patient relationship and is a vital component in building trust. Respecting the autonomy of the service user and meeting the information needs of family members is a central consideration in any mental health treatment plan.

Risk assessment always forms part of an intervention and where a risk of harm to self or others including family is suspected, the Medical Council Code of Ethics allows doctors to breach confidence in the interests of preventing harm. The Mental Health Commission has also issued guidelines encouraging the involvement of family, where appropriate, in respect of admission to, treatment and discharge from Approved Centres. Healthcare professionals accept and operate all these provisions.

In relation to the specific case raised by the Deputy, as this is a service matter it has been referred it to the HSE for direct reply.

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