The Scottish Government

Description of needs

Ways in which services can respond

4.1 Services for people with highly specialised needs

There is a need for a highly specialised service function, perhaps based in an academic department to act as a resource for a region or group of NHS Boards, and their partner local authorities, working through AATs. The tasks include:

• Management of complex alcohol-related neuropsychiatric problems, within in-patient provision.

• Services for individuals with established alcohol-related brain damage. Organisation of these services and responsibilities of the various agencies involved requires further consideration.

• Focus for individuals with severe co-morbidity (e.g., alcohol problems, and a co-existing mental illness, or post-traumatic syndrome).

A managed clinical network for the treatment, care, rehabilitation and after care of those with severe and complex alcohol problems to include:

• early, expert and multidisciplinary diagnosis and reassessment;

• counselling about the implications of the illness and support;

• information for the patient and the carer(s);

• co-ordination and continuity of care;

• expert, multi-professional clinical care;

• access to mental health services;

• rehabilitation;

• opportunities for individuals to develop new social and occupational activities;

• respite care and appropriate long-term placement; and

• advice to local agencies and AATs on effective preventative measures, widely applied.