Delays in youth psychiatry assessments

In Denmark, assessments in child and youth psychiatry exceeded the statutory 30-day limit by nearly four times on average in 2022. About 70% of cases did not meet this timeframe, affecting over 27,000 children and adolescents from 2019 to 2022. The Statsrevisorerne sharply criticized both the regional health authorities for failing to ensure timely assessments and the Ministry of Interior and Health for inadequate oversight. Moreover, regions neglected to inform patients about their rights to extended hospital choice in 63% of cases. Despite spending around 1.7 billion DKK in the sector, delays persist. Interior and Health Minister Sophie Løhde acknowledged the need for corrective action, while the Enhedslisten political party called for an emergency support package. The ministry has two months to submit a plan to improve the situation.