Tenth International Conference on Health, Wellness & Society

Abstract

This paper considers the negative outcomes of the lack of universality in the AUGE reform though the current situation of children’s mental health coverage in Chile. Although Chile has a critical rate of suicide and one of the world’s highest prevalence of mental health issues in children aged 1-5, the Health Care System only guarantees some mental health services to children aged 15 and up. Mental health issues and maladaptive behavior affecting Chilean children stands out as a relevant public health crisis. Substandard access to mental health care affects not only neglected or institutionalized children but also, the entire underage population when infant mental health services are not part of the guaranteed essential package of health care. Ensuring that infant mental health care becomes part of guaranteed essential health services might help to overcome the differences arising from mental health disease or disabilities that impair individual opportunities and adaptive behavior.