What is TelePsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry is the practice of psychiatry via telehealth. Psychiatry is pretty well-suited to using telemedicine as there is generally no need for a physical exam component to provide adequate care. At Elocin Psychiatric Services, telepsychiatry is done via secure, real-time video conferencing, similar to a FaceTime call. As long as you have a reasonably fast internet connection, you should have no problem.
Why see a telehealth Psychiatrist?
Quality care – Research has shown that telepsychiatry has similar outcomes to in-person care for many conditions.
Increased Access – For many, it can be difficult to find a psychiatrist, especially if you are looking for a Black psychiatrists. Black people make up 13% of the population but only 2 to 4% of psychiatrists are Black. Telehealth allows you access to physicians who may not be in your community. Dr. Washington sees several physicians in her practice and, for many, seeing a colleague can be uncomfortable. Having increased access can allow you to see someone who is able to provide care in your state, but not necessarily someone you might bump into professionally.
Convenience – Telepsychiatry eliminates the need for travel to and from appointments, taking up less time from your already busy day
In which states can Dr. Washington see patients?
Dr. Washington is currently licensed in Alabama, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Montana, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington D.C. , and Wyoming.
Do you offer in person appointments?
Dr. Washington typically sees patients in her Tulsa, OK office as needed/requested. She is available to travel out-of-state for an additional fee.
Do you take private insurance, Medicare or Medicaid?
This practice is not in-network with any private insurance companies, Medicare, nor Medicaid.
Do you offer services for teens or children?
Dr. Washington will see ages 16 and up
How do I schedule an appointment with Dr. Washington?
You can schedule an appointment by contacting us at 918-994-2445 or by emailing info@elocinpsych.com
What is the cost of an appointment?
Initial evaluation (60 minutes) – $397
Follow up appointment (20 minutes) – $147
Psychotherapy appointment (50 minutes) – $197
You have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining the cost of your medical care. Under the law, health care providers need to provide patients who are paying out-of-pocket for their care an estimate of the bill for medical items and services.
For more information about your right to a Good Faith Estimate, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises or call 877-267-2323
What is the cancellation policy for appointments?
Visits cancelled within 48 hours of the appointment will be subject to 50% of the appointment fee.
No show visits will be subject to 100% of the appointment fee
What if I have a previous diagnosis I don’t agree with?
Dr. Washington is available for second opinion evaluations if you are not in agreement with the treatment plan as recommended by your current psychiatrist. Dr. Washington will perform her own evaluation and discuss those findings with you.
What should I expect during my first appointment?
An initial evaluation visit involves a detailed interview about your current symptoms, psychiatric history, medical history, family history, social history,and a mental status examination. This visit is where Dr. Washington gets to know you and begins to develop your treatment plan. While she may develop a list of diagnostic impressions based on this initial visit, your diagnosis list could change as more information is shared and more time has passed for observation.
What can I do to make my first appointment successful?
I recommend you have the following information:
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Current medication list (including all prescription medication as well as supplements or vitamins you may be taking)
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List of previous psychiatric medication trials
What services do you provide?
The primary focus of this practice is psychiatric medication management. Dr. Washington does have a small number of spots available for psychotherapy and inquiry can be made at the evaluation appointment.
Do you prescribe controlled substances?
Dr. Washington recommends treatment based on the medication that will provide the patient the most benefit over time with the fewest possible side effects and/or abuse potential. Dr. Washington may occasionally prescribe controlled substances to those in Oklahoma after an in-person evaluation reveals a disorder that can benefit from this type of medication.
What kinds of psychiatric problems do you treat?
Dr. Washington mostly treats adults with disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, PTSD, OCD, and adjustment disorders. We see individuals who are able to safely participate in outpatient/virtual treatment. Those with severe disorders may require a higher level of care and wouldn’t be appropriate for care with this practice.
Do you offer same day appointments?
Dr. Washington does not offer same day appointments for initial evaluation. Appointment slots may be available for existing patients.
How do you ensure confidentiality?
Dr. Washington maintains a secure electronic medical record. She will discuss with you any health information that is disclosed outside of routine patient care. Patients must sign consent forms for family members or outside entities. The only exception to this is in emergency situations. If there is risk of harm to yourself or others, your health information may be shared to ensure safety as a priority.
