Liaison psychiatry continues to expand: developing services in the British Isles

Abstract

Aims and MethodA postal survey of consultants in liaison psychiatry was carried out in the spring of 2002 to document the current state of liaison psychiatry in the UK and the Republic of Ireland. Information was collected on post specifications, clinical organisation and plans for further local development.ResultsNinety-three liaison consultants were identified. Seventy-seven posts were full-time or half-time, compared with 43 such posts in 1996. During the same time period, specialist registrar training posts have doubled from 30 to 61. A third of respondents anticipated further consultant posts in their region.Clinical ImplicationsDespite the increase in the number of liaison consultants since 1996, the numbers still fall below that recommended by the Royal College of Psychiatrists. Liaison consultants need to improve links with primary care and continue to develop specialised services to demonstrate the qualitative and financial benefits that liaison psychiatry has to offer to a wide range of patients.