“The Kerry Specialist Mental Health Hub can see you faster and get you same-day access to the care you need,” according to Aidan Murphy, Acting Area Director of Nursing, commenting this week as he pointed to GPs being able to refer patients to the hub for direct, same-day access to expert care. “The service offers a fast and comprehensive alternative to the emergency department for those in need of emergency mental health care.”
He continued: “We hold emergency appointments each day, which patients can access with a referral from their GP or clinician. This allows us to review urgent cases quickly.”
This, he added, means that Kerry people in need of urgent mental health support are assessed quickly, and directed to the right care promptly. Assessments are carried out by a Consultant Psychiatrist and Clinical Nurse Specialists in Mental Health, which means patients get specialist decision-making expertise as soon as they arrive.”
A recent analysis of attendances at University Hospital Kerry (UHK) Emergency Department showed how more than half of people who present there with mental health difficulties could have been seen on the same day at the mental health assessment hub.
The hub offers patients a private, confidential, and respectful assessment carried out by skilled mental health professionals. It places a focus on the immediate needs and safety of the individual.
They receive a thorough clinical evaluation and a clear plan is agreed before they leave the hub. They can also access signposting to the most appropriate services in Kerry, depending on need, including community mental health teams, psychology, crisis services, primary care supports, or inpatient admission if clinically necessary.