Child neuropsychiatry services in Sicily face year-long delays

Families using the Child and Adolescent Neuropsychiatry Service (Npia) in the Milazzo–Lipari area, under the ASP of Messina, are reporting critical delays in specialist evaluations. Regional deputy Matteo Sciotto has raised an inquiry regarding the situation, noting that wait times can reach up to one year.

The service, located in Giammoro, reportedly suffers from a severe staff shortage, with only two employees managing both clinical activities and administrative duties for a wide territory. This shortage affects the prevention, diagnosis, and rehabilitation of neurodevelopmental disorders for children and adolescents aged 0 to 18.

Concerns have been raised that these delays may compromise the effectiveness of therapies and the long-term development and autonomy of vulnerable young patients.