In response to the Sunday Independent’s article Doctors’ fear over mental health care for children,, MPS clarifies its position in the following statement.

Dr Helen Hartley, Head of Underwriting Policy at Medical Protection Society (MPS) said:

“It is likely that Medical Protection Society (MPS) would assist an adult psychiatrist who was asked to see a child in an emergency situation, when there was no child and adolescent psychiatric cover. In such circumstances, MPS would expect that the adult psychiatrist should assess and manage the patient within the limits of their competence and expertise and involve a child and adolescent psychiatrist at the earliest available opportunity.

“The Irish Medical Council’s guidance stresses the importance of doctors practising within their field of competence, training and experience. MPS members practising adult psychiatry are welcome to seek our assistance in relation to matters arising from their professional practice.”