Psychiatry
Psychiatrists are medical doctors who have specialised in the diagnosis and treatment of mental and behavioural disorders. Psychiatrists are able to use medication to treat mental disorders but that is not the only treatment option open to them.
Mental disorders occur do to a combination of biological,
psychological and social factors in differing ratios.
At Tara Clinic we believe the doctor-patient relationship and the level of trust they achieve play a very important role in effecting treatment.
Medication is used according to the latest evidence based international guidelines in a safe and controlled manner.
Covert medication, i.e giving patients medicines without their knowledge is discouraged. For patients who do not recognise the need for treatment, a firm but honest approach tends to pay off in the long run.
Your first appointment
Your first appointment with the psychiatrist, often called a consultation can take anywhere up to an hour and fifteen minutes. Occasionally a further meeting may be necessary to finalise the diagnosis and treatment. .
Blood tests, scans and psychological tests may be necessary; if you have reports from investigations done previously please bring them along with you.
At the end of the consultation the working diagnosis and treatment plan will be discussed with you.
Review appointments usually take 20 to 25 minutes.
Please bring all previous medical documents, results and prescriptions when you come for your consultation.
Also, bring along all medication you are currently taking.
Relatives & carers are not usually seen prior to seeing the patient.
At the end of the consultation the working diagnosis and treatment plan will be discussed with you.
Review appointments usually take 20 to 25 minutes.
General Psychiatry
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Diagnostic consultations
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Consultation - Liaison with general medicine/surgery
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Medication reviews
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Chronic disease management
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Family and carer education & support