An urgent review into care received by children and young people in South Kerry was prompted by concerns raised by a local staff member.
Cork Kerry Community Healthcare will review the care received by those who attended the South Kerry Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services between 2016 and 2020.
The HSE is reviewing the files of over 1,500 child and adolescent mental health service patients amid concerns some were prescribed dangerously excessive amounts of medication.
Cork Kerry Community Healthcare says that most of children will have received appropriate care and clinical interventions, however, it’s important to review all cases from this time period.
The independent review is expected to take 4 months.
Dr Máire Young, executive clinical director for Kerry Mental Health Services said concerns were initially raised by a staff member in South Kerry CAMHS.
The HSE has set up a helpline for concerned parents on 1800-742-800.
Dr Young apologised to the families affected.
Kerry TD Pa Daly says he will be raising the matter in the Dáil today. The Sinn Féin TD said he welcomes the investigation but says we must have confidence that young people are getting the best mental health care possible.
