Psychiatric treatment done but nowhere to go for patients: Goa’s key institute has a problem

The Institute of Psychiatry and Human Behaviour in Goa recently faced scrutiny from the Goa Human Rights Commission. The investigation revealed that patients, once deemed fit for discharge, are struggling to find appropriate accommodation due to lack of family support. The Commission emphasized the need for dedicated rehabilitation facilities or halfway homes to provide these patients a safe and dignified environment, ongoing mental health support, rehabilitation, life skills training, and help for reintegration into society.

Additionally, the Commission pointed out that the local ambulance service often fails to transport psychiatric patients, causing delays in accessing emergency medical assistance. They suggested establishing a specialized ambulance service for these patients in each taluka or at least one per two to three talukas to ensure timely medical transport.

In terms of child and adolescent mental health services, the Commission noted that separate wards are used and OPD appointments occur twice weekly. They commended the efforts in this area but recommended further attention to the nutritional needs of patients, suggesting the government consider providing more than the current Rs 120 per day for five meals to ensure patients receive adequate, nutritious, and varied food.

Lastly, the Commission discussed the in-patient capacity of the Institute, currently at 190 beds. They advised the government to plan ahead for the additional staff and resources required to support an expected increase to around 250 beds once new infrastructure is built. This expansion would include demolishing portions of the old wards and constructing a hostel, with the Commission urging careful planning to ensure the enhanced capacity does not compromise the quality of care.