BACKGROUND: Young people in out-of-home care, especially those with a history of multiple placements, typically have numerous and complex health needs, and worse health outcomes than their peers who grow up within a family of origin. A significant proportion of this can be attributed to policy failures and poor interagency communication. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to describe the factors that contribute to the health needs of young people in out-of-home care and the tools available to support general practitioners (GPs) to provide care. DISCUSSION: GPs are crucial in the early detection of health problems and intervention for this vulnerable population. Marked social and relational problems make the high-priority task of creating a safe and trusting environment a challenge. GPs must also work within the statutory requirements of each state and territory, and navigate the complex out-of-home care system. Using recommended frameworks and maintaining effective communication and support will improve outcomes for these young people, their families and the community.
BACKGROUND: Young people in out-of-home care, especially those with a history of multiple placements, typically have numerous and complex health needs, and worse health outcomes than their peers who grow up within a family of origin. A significant proportion of this can be attributed to policy failures and poor interagency communication. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this article is to describe the factors that contribute to the health needs of young people in out-of-home care and the tools available to support general practitioners (GPs) to provide care. DISCUSSION: GPs are crucial in the early detection of health problems and intervention for this vulnerable population. Marked social and relational problems make the high-priority task of creating a safe and trusting environment a challenge. GPs must also work within the statutory requirements of each state and territory, and navigate the complex out-of-home care system. Using recommended frameworks and maintaining effective communication and support will improve outcomes for these young people, their families and the community.
Authors: Helen Herrman; Cathy Humphreys; Stephen Halperin; Katherine Monson; Carol Harvey; Cathrine Mihalopoulos; Susan Cotton; Penelope Mitchell; Tony Glynn; Anne Magnus; Lenice Murray; Josef Szwarc; Elise Davis; Sophie Havighurst; Patrick McGorry; Sam Tyano; Ida Kaplan; Simon Rice; Kristen Moeller-Saxone Journal: BMC Psychiatry Date: 2016-12-07 Impact factor: 3.630