Today, the world has taken a steep shift from physical to online presence. From simple ideas to the biggest of organizations, everyone has shifted their lives online. This also includes mental health forums and practitioners. The question here is- Can online psychiatrists prescribe medications? The short answer is- Yes. They can. But why are people confused?
How can psychiatrists prescribe medications?
Psychiatrists are medical professionals that hold the credentials for prescribing medicines. Because of this medical degree, they are authorized to prescribe medication in any mode- online and offline as well.
So, when you are consulting an online psychiatrist, you are consulting a legitimate doctor. According to the Telemedicine practice guidelines (2020), such consultations are keenly governed and authorized. These guidelines allow registered medical practitioners, including psychiatrists, to prescribe medications during online consultations—with a few conditions.
What can be prescribed online, per say?
While most of the medicines can be prescribed online, there are some restrictions. For example, Schedule X and some psychotropic drugs cannot be allocated under the NDPS Act. This holds true for first time prescriptions. Other medications like SSRIs and SNRIs can be safely prescribed.
An online psychiatrist in Delhi for instance, might begin with an in depth assessment with comprehensive tools by his side. The psychiatrist asks detailed questions, forms an idea about the issue in upcoming sessions and then prescribes medications.
The Lancet Psychiatry highlighted that telepsychiatry has become a viable, reliable and an effective alternative to in person care in recent times. It was noted that patient satisfaction and treatment outcomes remained strong despite the challenges. When the online mental health services are regulated and ethically practiced, the bridge for seeking help can be shortened. This comes from a study from the Indian Journal of Psychiatry.
So, easily given, telemedicine has now become a new norm in the field of Indian Psychiatry. When one wishes to consult a psychiatrist in Delhi, it is now just a click away. Seeking online care is not an unwanted option- it is just a different door to find the same kind of treatment.
