Medication Management
Prescription of medication, and ongoing medication management, may be recommended as part of a treatment plan. The process of medication decisions is handled differently for children, adolescents, and adults.
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Bartky HealthCare Center clinicians base their medication recommendations on the most current research and thinking in the field. In addition, medication choices are based on the assessment and family history.
A thorough discussion of the risks and benefits of medications is included as part of the treatment plan. Patients are encouraged to ask their clinicians about their medications and take an active role in the decision to start medication.
Children
We will spend sufficient time to listen to all concerns; we pride ourselves on partnering with parents in making difficult medical decisions. Bartky HealthCare Center clinicians recognize the often difficult decision to place a child on medication.
Bartky HealthCare Center is fully compliant with FDA regulations regarding prescribing psychiatric medications, especially antidepressant medications, to children. Patients and parents are provided with a detailed schedule of appointments that follow FDA recommendations. It is important to maintain this schedule to ensure effectiveness and safety of medications.
Adolescents
Adolescents require special care when it comes to psychiatric medication. They often want their independence and may have special or private concerns about medications that they do not wish to share with parents. These concerns are handled by Bartky HealthCare Center in a sensitive manner, while always maintaining safety as a primary concern.
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Bartky HealthCare Center is fully compliant with FDA regulations regarding prescribing psychiatric medications, especially antidepressant medications, to adolescents. Patients and parents are provided with a detailed schedule of appointments that follow FDA recommendations. It is important to maintain this schedule to ensure effectiveness and safety of medications. Bartky HealthCare Center encourages adolescents to be mindful of how a medication is working and potential side-effects, and to advocate for themselves if they have concerns.
Adults
Medication for adults is often recommended to improve significant life areas, including personal, work, and social functioning. A detailed discussion of risks and benefits takes place before any medication is prescribed.
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If medication is prescribed, a schedule of medication management visits will be discussed to maximize effectiveness and maintain proper safety.