A model for primary care child and adolescent mental health (CAMH)
services is presented, the overall goal of which is to reduce population
burden of CAMH problems. The theoretical orientation of the model is
based on ecological systems theories. Features of the model include: local
population outcome measures; small area service focus; primary-care-based CAMH specialists; a locally comprehensive service framework
based in primary care (schools and general practices); and an explicit
process of community engagement. The model is illustrated by reference to
a primary care CAMH service (currently the subject of a controlled trial) in
Flintshire, North Wales.