RCGP Response to Care Quality Commission Report on
Mental Health
24th September
2009
RCGP Chairman Professor Steve Field,
Chairman of the Royal College of General Practitioners,
said:
“All patients are entitled to quality care and
support, regardless of their condition or where they are receiving
their treatment, and it is crucial that patients with mental health
issues - who are often some of the most vulnerable people in
society – are properly supported by the hospital system.
While the report indicates that the majority
of patients are satisfied with the treatment they receive, more
needs to be done to ensure that there is a consistent picture right
across the UK.
GPs have a vital role to play in ensuring that
patients are as prepared as possible for their stay in hospital and
in ensuring that their health needs are provided for once they
leave hospital.
Provision of care and services for patients
with mental health issues is a growing priority for GPs and our
primary care teams. GPs are making good progress on the prevention
agenda so that patients can access more help and support from the
doctors and health professionals they know and trust at their local
GP practice, rather than being sent to hospital apart from when it
is absolutely necessary. The availability and quality of services -
such as talking therapies - that we can offer in primary care
is improving.
The RCGP has appointed a Clinical Champion for
Mental Health and we have also established a primary care Mental
Health Forum with our colleagues at the Royal College of
Psychiatrists so that we can work together to deliver a better deal
for all mental health patients.”