Bridging the Gap in Mental Health Care
Reconnect Mental Health offers a Shared Care program designed to support primary care providers in managing patients with treatment-resistant depression and anxiety. This program provides a comprehensive psychiatric consultation and diagnostic assessment with treatment recommendations tailored to the patient's unique circumstances.
How Shared Care Works
- Referral Submission: Primary care providers (GP, NP) in the Medicine Hat Region can refer eligible patients for Shared Care.
- Comprehensive Assessment: Dr. Comeau conducts a thorough psychiatric evaluation, available virtually or in-person.
- Treatment Recommendations: After the assessment, a detailed consultation report, including treatment recommendations, is forwarded to the referring provider.
- Ongoing Support: Primary care providers can consult with Dr. Comeau by phone to discuss patient progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.
Program Highlights
- Virtual and In-Person Options: Flexible consultation formats to suit patient and provider needs.
- Collaborative Care: Seamless coordination with primary care providers for enhanced patient outcomes.
- Expert Guidance: Diagnostic clarification and evidence-based recommendations tailored to each patient.
Patient Eligibility
Patients must meet all criteria to qualify for Shared Care:
- Referred by a primary care provider in Medicine Hat for patients residing in Medicine Hat.
- Chronic anxiety or depression symptoms impairing quality of life.
- Moderate to severe symptoms but not requiring a higher level of care, such as case management.
- Aged 18-65.
- Failure of at least three antidepressant trials due to non-response or intolerance.
- Not actively suicidal (requires a higher level of care).
- Symptoms not primarily caused by substance use.
- No severe active substance use issues.
- No primary psychotic illness or bipolar disorder.
Availability
Limited Spots Available
Due to high demand, referrals for Shared Care are reviewed on the first business day of each month. Spaces are limited, so early referral submission is encouraged.
