What action is being taken to improve continuity of care for patients who are required to change psychiatrists, including when moving betwe…

The Scottish Government recognises the importance of continuity of care for people receiving mental health treatment, including when moving between services or NHS Board areas. Our Core Mental Health Quality Standards emphasise the importance of strong links between primary and secondary care services, including supporting people when moving between or out of services.Decisions about transferring care are based on individual clinical need. Where ongoing secondary mental health care is required, care can be transferred to the appropriate local service. Best clinical practice is for the transferring service to retain clinical responsibility until the person has engaged with the receiving team. This flexible approach supports person-centred care while recognising that individual needs and local service arrangements vary.The Scottish Government's refreshed Mental Health and Wellbeing Delivery Plan sets out our priorities to improve mental health support and services over the next three years and is aligned to wider health system reform. It reflects a shared commitment across national and local government to meet people's needs, regardless of where they live in Scotland. As part of this work, we will publish a Mental Health and Wellbeing Blueprint by autumn 2027, which will set out the role of each part of the mental health and wellbeing system and support stronger collaboration across services.