Despite increasing clinical interest and research consultation-liaison (C-L) services in the United Kingdom are mainly haphazard and unsatisfactory. Although the clinical problems are similar to those in other Western countries, the answers must reflect the British health care system. The national C-L organization must formulate and promote detailed policies for 1) clinical priorities; 2) staffing and other resources; 3) integration with other specialist psychiatric services for local populations and primary care; and 4) persuading other medical organizations to place greater emphasis on psychological skills, training requirements, and practice. Some of our conclusions are parochial, some are generally applicable; others are applicable only to countries with comprehensive health care.