German mental health care in people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (idd) in comparison to other European countries

Abstract

Introduction

In Germany, mental health care in people with IDD is mostly determined by experts’ opinions. Particularities of the psychiatric assessment and treatment of people with IDD and a co-morbid psychiatric disorder are taught neither at medical schools nor in the scope of the medical training of psychiatrists.

Objectives

The present study examined the influence of socio-political aspects of health care on quality and organisation of mental health care in people with IDD.

Methods

Various aspects of health care systems in Germany and three other European countries were explored and juxtaposed subsequently with a special developed questionnaire.

Results

The health care systems of four different European countries differ in socio-economical, educational and system-financed aspects.

Conclusions

Differing organisational levels of national health care systems and socio-economical aspects within these countries contribute to the organisation of the mental health care system in people with IDD. Suggestions for a better harmonisation of European mental health care in people with IDD are offered.

Disclosure of interest

The author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.