In Germany, mental health care in people with IDD is mostly determined by experts’ opinions. Particularities of the psychiatric assessment and treatment of people with IDD and a co-morbid psychiatric disorder are taught neither at medical schools nor in the scope of the medical training of psychiatrists.

The present study examined the influence of socio-political aspects of health care on quality and organisation of mental health care in people with IDD.

Various aspects of health care systems in Germany and three other European countries were explored and juxtaposed subsequently with a special developed questionnaire.

The health care systems of four different European countries differ in socio-economical, educational and system-financed aspects.

Differing organisational levels of national health care systems and socio-economical aspects within these countries contribute to the organisation of the mental health care system in people with IDD. Suggestions for a better harmonisation of European mental health care in people with IDD are offered.

The author has not supplied his declaration of competing interest.