The chronic child patient: ensuring continuity of care.

Children under state supervision who are identified as needing long-term psychiatric care often do not have the opportunity to benefit from consistent mental health treatment. The difficulties in establishing a consensus about long-term treatment and the problems resulting from an absence of anyone consistently involved with the child over time are illustrated by a case history. Appointment of an "overseer" in such cases is argued for, and guidelines for this role are elaborated.