REFORMING THE SYSTEM OF PSYCHIATRIC CARE IN UKRAINE: ORGANISATIONAL AND LEGAL APPROACHES

Abstract

The article is devoted to the analysis of the content of the regulatory framework for the functioning of the mental health care system in Ukraine.

The analysis is based on theoretical (analysis, synthesis, generalisation, systematisation) and empirical (observation, classification) methods. The article also uses methods of statistical, comparative, dialectical, extrapolation, etc.

Based on the analysis of empirical data, it is established that the system of psychiatric care in Ukraine needs to be reformed. The priorities of national policy and planning in the field of mental health are identified. These include: intersectoral prevention; digitalisation of mental health services and communication; further deinstitutionalisation of mental health care; support for public structures; cooperation between health and social care networks, as well as forensic psychological examination. It is proposed to bring the qualification characteristics of professions in the field of mental health care in line with international standards, in particular psychotherapists, psychologists, social workers, nurses, etc.

The author substantiates the expediency of structuring the secondary level of mental health care, which should include outpatient and inpatient units; functioning of a coordinating body at the local level, which, taking into account the needs of the community, existing difficulties, development plans, would coordinate actions in the field of mental health care between different institutions.