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CAMHS Misdiagnosis Review Report – Jan 2022

On the 26th of January 2022 the report of Dr. Sean Maskey, commissioned by the HSE, was published. The report followed a review into chronic shortcomings in the treatment of hundreds of children under the care of the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in South Kerry. The findings of the report are devastating and painful for the children involved and their families, and shocking for wider society.

Over a period of four years, a non-consultant hospital doctor prescribed medication to 244 young patients either incorrectly, or at dosages well above those appropriate for their age. Many were diagnosed with ADHD where the appropriate diagnostic process was not followed. Those affected suffered significant harm including daytime sedation, elevated blood pressure and considerable weight gain. The report highlighted very serious issues within the service around lack of supervision, unsafe practices, poor management and a generally chaotic system.

Addressing the Dail, Taoiseach Micheal Martin described the finding of the review as “very, very serious” and “unacceptable “. Mr. Martin has announced that there will be a full audit of all 72 Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services nationwide.