The Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences recently launched a new service to help prescribing providers in Washington — including providers in the UW Medicine Accountable Care Network — receive clinical advice regarding adult patients (18+) with mental health and/or substance use disorders.

Funded by the Washington State Legislature, the UW Psychiatry Consultation Line (PCL) helps address the severe shortage of mental health professionals in the state by providing consultation to providers working in primary care clinics, community hospitals, emergency departments, and county and municipal correctional facilities.

Providers can call 877-WA-PSYCH (877-927-7924) and, after a short intake with a health navigator, they are connected to a UW Medicine psychiatrist.

Most callers have questions regarding assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning, including management of antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, antipsychotic medications and medications for substance use.

Read the entire article at The Huddle. Jürgen Unützer, Adjunct Professor of Global Health, is quoted.