I was diagnosed with cancer recently (no need to worry) and was amazed at how swiftly and effectively my personal care was coordinated among the surgeon, oncologist, diagnostic imaging center, psychologist, and radiation therapist. The surgeon personally called me on a Friday to let me know the results of the biopsy and by later that same afternoon, I had appointments for an MRI and an initial meeting with my Personal-Care team of doctors. The best news is that I did not have to lift a finger or make a single phone call for this total coordination to occur. It all happened automatically.
This is the way mental health care should work. Absolute and seamless coordination of my personal care among psychologists, psychiatrists, and mental health facilities coordinating my care.
I urge you, the patient, and mental health professionals to demand this kind of orchestrated care. It’s made the treatment of cancer much more effective, efficient and successful. Shouldn’t we ask the same of our mental health care?