Care of patients with psychiatric problems

quired. We believe that this cost is relatively small and is good value for money, if a clear diagnosis is made, and appropriate management is initiated. That after all, is what specialist departments are for. We accept the convenience of general practice management, but until diagnostic ability improves, we suggest that many patients are being badly and unnecessarily treated. Training in minor surgical technique is only a small part of the necessary education diagnosis and application of technique is equally important. The costs may make treatment in general practice appear attractive but the person who bears the expense, in the form of inappropriate treatment, is inevitably the patient.