Responsibilities of Consultants in Child, Family and Adolescent Psychiatry: A Personal View

Christopher J Wardle

doi:10.1192/s0140078900002492

Abstract

This paper discusses the special problems of consultants' responsibilities in child and adolescent psychiatry, following the College memorandum (Bulletin, September 1977, pp 4–7). In particular consideration is given to the implications of consultants working in multidisciplinary teams and attached to clinics, residential homes and schools administered by the Local Authority. Ever since 1927, when Emanuel Miller opened the East London Child Guidance Clinic, a multidisciplinary team approach has been the elected method for dealing with psychiatric problems of children and their families.

Highlights

The arrangements for providing a consultant service in child psychiatry vary a great deal through out the United Kingdom, and it is possible for one consultant to be working in a variety of different ways in one health district
Each member of the team is responsible for his part of the team work, but the consultant is clearly recognized as having overall clinical responsibility for every patient referred to him. (All referrals to such a clinic will be automatically allocated to a consultant.) This system has the advantage that it clearly defines where final responsibility lies
Traditional child guidance clinics grew from concern about children who were failing to adjust in the community, presenting difficulties in school, or appearing in the Juvenile Courts

Summary

Introduction

The arrangements for providing a consultant service in child psychiatry vary a great deal through out the United Kingdom, and it is possible for one consultant to be working in a variety of different ways in one health district. Each member of the team is responsible for his part of the team work, but the consultant is clearly recognized as having overall clinical responsibility for every patient referred to him.

Results

Conclusion