Posted by AnneL on August 26, 2001, at 22:19:16
In reply to Will a GP write my prescription?, posted by Diane J. on August 25, 2001, at 19:51:32
> > >A GP is qualified to prescribe any medication that he or she feels is appropriate for a particular patient. It is not always necessary to seek professional help solely from a psychiatrist in the treatment of depression and/or anxiety.
Hopefully you have a good relationship with your primary care physician (GP or internist) and feel comfortable with he or she in discussing your problems, etc.
When I realized I was in trouble with depression 6 months ago, the first professional I went to (ran to) was my GP. He came up with the idea of trying Effexor along with Klonopin. I do not need to see him monthly unless I want to.
About 2 months into my medications, I thought maybe I "should" see a psychiatrist to make sure I was taking the "right meds" and the "right dose" and I sure was disappointed in the pdoc that I went to. Of course, this was just my experience and your own mileage may vary.
I respect my GP, he listens to my ideas about dose increases and trying out different combos of meds and I feel he cares about me.
As a Registered Nurse, I have worked along side many a physician, many famous in their specialties. IMHO, there are few who stand out as men and women of compassion, knowledge and integrity. As a patient you need to know what you want and more importantly you need to know how to ask for what you want and need. The doctor-patient relationship should be based on a foundation of mutual respect, honesty and an
ability to give and receive information.Good Luck in finding a doctor that you feel good about, GP or pdoc. :) Anne
poster:AnneL
thread:76401
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20010822/msgs/76514.html