HSE boss issues apology for Camhs failings: 'Our services in Kerry were so far below the acceptable standards as to cause risk of harm'

"It found some children were prescribed as many as seven different drugs, while non-medical treatments were almost entirely absent at a child and adolescent health service. There was a risk of moderate or major harm in respect of more than half of the cases on the service's books in 2022. The shocking findings were made in respect of 197 out of 374 case files - a rate of 53pc."

"The long-awaited review report from a team led by consultant psychiatrist Dr Colette Halpin found that 79pc of service users were prescribed psychotropic medication, an unusually high rate. In comparison, a HSE national prescribing audit in 2023 came back with a rate of 39pc. Almost all children with a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of autism were prescribed psychotropic drugs at the North Kerry service."

"Mr Gloster said today:"I apologise unequivocally to the children and families under our care who have been affected by the North Kerry CAMHS Look Back Review. "I am truly sorry for the harm caused and we will continue to work to improve, reform and invest in mental health services for young people in Kerry, and indeed throughout the country."

A review of 374 North Kerry CAMHS case files identified moderate or major harm in 197 cases (53%) and minor harm in 12 additional cases. Some children were prescribed as many as seven different drugs and non-medical treatments were almost entirely absent. Seventy-nine percent of service users received psychotropic medication, versus 39% in a 2023 national audit. Almost all children with confirmed or suspected autism were prescribed psychotropic drugs. Above-average prescribing of risperidone and guanfacine was found, with notable side effects including weight gain and sedation. A Medical Council referral has been made and an unequivocal HSE apology was issued.

Read at Irish Independent