Health chiefs refuse to extend autism and ADHD assessments, raising serious concerns.
Topics covered
In a troubling turn of events, health officials in Aberdeenshire have declined urgent requests to extend autism and ADHD assessments for an additional six months. This decision has sparked outrage among families and advocates who fear the implications for those awaiting diagnosis and support.
Impact on vulnerable individuals
Marion McLaughlin, a concerned mother, expressed her deep worries about the potential consequences of halting these assessments. With approximately 1,800 adults in the north-east currently on the waiting list, the stakes are high. Statistics reveal that autistic adults are eight times more likely to die by suicide, highlighting the critical need for timely evaluations and interventions.
McLaughlin’s fears are echoed by many who believe that the lack of support could lead to devastating outcomes for vulnerable individuals.
Financial constraints hinder service continuity
During a recent meeting focused on health budget cuts, campaigners urged health leaders to allocate £80,000 to maintain the assessment services for another six months. However, a report detailing the financial struggles of the Aberdeenshire Health and Social Care Partnership (AHSCP) dashed hopes for a temporary solution. Officials indicated that continuing even a reduced service would not be feasible without negatively impacting other critical departments.
The AHSCP’s current autism and ADHD assessment services are set to cease on March 31, leaving many individuals in limbo. The partnership manager, Jeff Shaw, stated that the necessary groundwork for a limited service could only be laid if there was a clear expectation of a longer-term solution. Unfortunately, the financial realities suggest that such a service is not on the horizon.
Future of assessment services remains uncertain
As the situation stands, the waiting list for assessments will remain stagnant until a new service is established, which is not expected to launch for another six to eight months. This delay leaves the 1,800 individuals in a precarious position, with no immediate relief in sight. Health officials are exploring options for a new assessment service, but the timeline for implementation remains unclear.
Moreover, the report highlights that any attempt to purchase private assessments for those on the waiting list is deemed “not cost-effective or possible within the timeframes.” This leaves families with limited options and raises serious questions about the future of mental health services in Aberdeenshire.
As the community grapples with these challenges, the voices of those affected are crucial. Families are encouraged to share their experiences and concerns regarding the NHS services in Grampian, Highland, and the islands. The need for advocacy and support has never been more pressing as Aberdeenshire navigates this critical juncture in mental health care.
