Tragic incident involving young patient suicide at Regional Psychiatric Services in Randers

A tragic incident has occurred involving a young patient who took their own life while under the care of the Regional Psychiatric Services in Randers, which is currently embroiled in controversy. Jane Alrø, secretary general of Better Psychiatry, expressed her shock at the conclusion drawn by the Patient Compensation Board, stating that the suicide could likely have been prevented with adequate treatment. She emphasized the necessity of recognizing the life-threatening consequences of treatment failures in the mental health sector.

The family of the deceased had previously raised concerns with the Patient Compensation Board after Regional Midtjylland announced the suspension of a senior physician and an investigation into patient records. However, the Patient Compensation Board did not identify the specific doctor involved in this situation.

Reports have surfaced indicating that for several years, relatives, patients, and staff have warned of troubling conditions in the well-known inpatient unit C at the Regional Psychiatric Services in Randers. Significant action was delayed until a whistleblower intervened in January, leading to the subsequent dismissal of a senior physician.

Alrø hopes that the circumstances surrounding this case will encourage more patients and families to critically assess the adequacy of the treatment they receive. She voiced the importance of ensuring that individuals with mental illnesses receive necessary support and proper care, underscoring that neglect in psychiatric treatment can lead to severe consequences, including loss of life.

Mia Kristina Hansen, chairperson of SIND, a national organization for mental health, noted that it is uncommon for patients and their families to seek compensation following psychiatric care. Nonetheless, she anticipates that this situation will highlight the need for improved assistance for individuals suffering from mental health disorders.

The Regional Psychiatric Services stated that they are deeply affected by the incident and are reviewing the findings of the Patient Compensation Board, while also committing to a thorough evaluation of patient records to initiate necessary improvements.