Medication management at the Philadelphia area’s Buckingham Psychiatry is one aspect of comprehensive treatment for many patients seeking help for their mental health conditions. When coupled with psychotherapy, the approach can be highly effective—but requires significant preparatory work and routine check-ins in order to remain a safe and effective option.
In order to maximize outcomes while minimizing risks and side effects, Dr. Jacob Buinewicz begins every treatment plan with a thorough and detailed patient assessment. This allows him to get to know the patient as an individual, as well as learn key health information that will inform any medication choices made as part of a treatment plan.
Assessments will involve both discussions and paperwork, all of which is necessary for creating a personalized treatment plan. It is important to be honest and open throughout the process, as accurate information and as complete an understanding of the various factors at play as possible can greatly enhance both psychotherapy and medication management’s success.
During an assessment, Dr. Buinewicz will go over a patient’s health and medical history, note the signs and symptoms of their mental condition, create a list medications taken presently and in the past, discuss any other treatment strategies that have been tried, and explore lifestyle factors that may be contributing to the condition.
Armed with this information—and more—Dr. Buinewicz will then create a personalized treatment plan that may include medication management.
This is not a one-time event that consists of a prescription being written. Medications require ongoing monitoring, so that Dr. Buinewicz can assess the effectiveness of the approach, as well as watch for any side effects that may develop. Medication plans sometimes need to be adjusted, whether in terms of dosing, frequency, or the medications themselves.
Dr. Buinewicz also works closely with the patient’s pharmacy to ensure the proper medications in the proper doses are being administered. He will also check in routinely with the patient to be sure the medications are being taken the way they should.
Another key element of medication management is education, which is why Dr. Buinewicz works to explain what the various medication options are to his patients, as well as what each medication can and can’t do. It is especially important for patients to understand how various medications can interact with each other, as well as certain supplements.
Patients are always welcome to contact Dr. Buinewicz with any questions or concerns about medication management or other aspects of their treatment plan. Contact Buckingham Psychiatryonline or call 484-466-5560 to reach Dr. Jacob Buinewicz.