The Ministry of Health announced on Apr. 19 the approval of Supreme Decree No. 002-2026-SA, which sets out new guidelines for the comprehensive mental health care of children and adolescents at risk or lacking family protection. The regulation aims to ensure coordinated and timely attention for this vulnerable group, with endorsement from both the Minister of Women and Vulnerable Populations and the Minister of Health.
This measure addresses a significant issue in Peru, where more than 3.4 million children and adolescents are considered at risk due to lack of family protection, according to data from the National Survey on Social Relations (ENARES 2019). Research indicates that exposure to adverse experiences such as violence, neglect, or dysfunctional family environments can have long-term effects on both mental and physical health.
The decree applies nationwide and is mandatory for all relevant institutions. It outlines procedures for providing mental health support through Ministry of Health facilities as well as regional government services. These efforts are coordinated with protection services offered by the Ministry of Women and Vulnerable Populations, including municipal child advocacy offices (DEMUNA), special protection units (UPE), and residential care centers (CAR).
Officials from the Mental Health Directorate said this measure strengthens Peru’s community-based model for mental health care by focusing interventions on the needs and rights of children and adolescents. “Estas orientaciones aseguran una atención integral y articulada entre los sectores salud y protección social, priorizando a quienes más lo necesitan,” they said.
The guidelines include early screening for mental health problems, timely referrals to specialized services, integrated community-focused care approaches, ongoing training for healthcare personnel, continuous coordination between healthcare providers and social protection agencies, continuity in patient care, confidentiality safeguards, and culturally appropriate service delivery.
With these provisions in place, both ministries reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable youth by promoting their development and ensuring their rights are fully exercised.
