RCPsych responds to publication of HSSIB lithium report

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The Royal College of Psychiatrists has responded to the publication of a new report by the Health Services Safety Investigations Body (HSSIB) examining the use of lithium for people with bipolar disorder.

The report explores the prescribing, monitoring and oversight of lithium treatment across care settings and makes recommendations aimed at improving the quality and safety of care.

Responding to the report, Professor Subodh Dave, President of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, said:

“Bipolar disorder is a severe mental illness affecting around a million people in the UK. It can have a profound impact on a person's life, which is why timely access to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment is so important. The right treatment and support can help people manage their condition more effectively, reduce the risk of relapse and hospital admission, and live well.

“Lithium remains one of the most effective treatments available for preventing relapse and supporting long-term recovery for many people with bipolar disorder. We welcome HSSIB’s report and its focus on ensuring that people who may benefit from lithium are able to access it safely, supported by appropriate monitoring and follow-up care.

“It is also positive to see the recommendation for stronger national oversight and assurance processes to improve the quality and safety of care. While this report focuses on lithium, it also highlights the importance of ensuring that people with bipolar disorder can access timely diagnosis, evidence-based treatment and consistent support throughout their care. This is an important opportunity to improve care and outcomes for people living with bipolar disorder.

“The College is committed to developing a national position statement to help clinicians offer evidence-based treatment and ensure people with bipolar disorder receive the high-quality care they need and deserve.

“I have appointed a Presidential Lead for Clinical Effectiveness to help ensure that effective treatments, such as lithium, are used consistently across services. We are also producing, through a collaborative established by the College and Bipolar UK, a broader Position Statement on Bipolar Disorder, which we hope will provide the opportunity alongside the lithium work to help drive progress for this important group of patients.”