The chronic child patient: ensuring continuity of care.
Children under state supervision who are identified as needing long-term psychiatric care often do not have the opportunity to benefit from consistent mental health treatment. The difficulties in establishing a consensus about long-term treatment and the problems resulting from an absence of anyone consistently involved with the child over time are illustrated by a case history. Appointment of an "overseer" in such cases is argued for, and guidelines for this role are elaborated.
D002648:Child; D002674:Child, Institutionalized / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D002908:Chronic Disease; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D001523:Mental Disorders / Q000628:therapy*; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*