Georgia’s Interior Ministry proposes unified database for mental health, addiction issues

The Georgian Interior Ministry has proposed amendments aimed at enabling the country’s Health Ministry to establish a unified database for individuals with mental health issues, alcoholism, drug and toxic addiction.

This central database, part of a legislative package of 15 bills submitted to the Parliament, will be accessible to relevant institutions in accordance with legal provisions, the Ministry told the press on Monday.

The proposed amendments address a “lack of a comprehensive information system” for individuals with mental health issues, the body said, adding the gap hampered “effective management” of public safety mechanisms.

The Ministry emphasised it was challenging to assess individuals' health status in relation to laws governing weapon permits, service weapon rights and driving licences “without a reliable information source”. 

It further noted the database was expected to enhance the functionality of state agencies, including the Health Ministry, and improve the accuracy and reliability of health-related data.