« Previous | Contents | Next »
Listen
Primary and Community Care Directorate
Alex McMahon, Head of Mental Health Delivery and Services Unit/Mental Health and Learning Disability Nursing Advisor
T: 0131-244 2816 F: 0131-244 2970
E: alex.mcmahon@scotland.gsi.gov.uk
Chief Executives: NHS Boards
Chief Executive, The State Hospitals Board for Scotland
NHS Pandemic Flu Coordinators
Copy:
Chief Executives, Local Authorities.
7 April 2008
Dear Colleague
GUIDANCE ON PLANNING FOR INFLUENZA PANDEMIC
SCOTTISH GUIDANCE: MENTAL HEALTH
My letter of 22 November 2007 invited comments on, and alerted to, coming guidance to assist NHS Pandemic Flu Coordinators and all local planners in preparing mental health services and partners in Scotland for an influenza pandemic. I now attach the outcome guidance.
It is crucial in planning for pandemic flu, that the dependency and needs of particular service users are considered carefully and thoroughly so that every practical step is taken to sustain core services throughout the period of any pandemic. This philosophy should be reflected in all pandemic flu contingency plans for mental health services.
The guidance offers planners operational guidance for responding to an influenza pandemic and covers key planning assumptions, principles, roles and responsibilities. The guidance is premised on ensuring that the range of service providers work together effectively on contingency planning, review and contingency delivery.
An emphasis is placed on continuity of care and maintaining access to services and treatments for service users throughout the pandemic phase so that people with mental health problems receive support and protection whether in the community, in residential or inpatient settings.
Please bring this letter and guidance to the attention of all partners including the local authority (ies), the Voluntary and Independent Sectors, and others.
Yours sincerely
ALEX McMAHON
« Previous | Contents | Next »