The Benefits of Physician-Led Mental Healthcare

Stephen Pannel, DO, ABPN, ABAM, Chief Medical Officer, Right Track Medical Group

With nearly all physical ailments, patients can see a physician on the same day. So, when a patient sprains their ankle, they know they can see a doctor within 24 hours and feel relief. However, when it comes to mental healthcare, it is not unusual for patients to wait weeks or even months for their first appointment. Unfortunately, some patients will reach a crisis level – requiring hospitalization or inpatient care – before that first appointment comes around.

“From the behavioral healthcare perspective, unfortunately, seeking care still carries a lot of stigma so it’s hard for people to get the care they need,” said Dr. Stephen Pannel, Chief Medical Officer of Right Track Medical Group. “Coupled with the wait times and limited access, it can be a real burden for patients.” 

The unique, physician-led approach taken by Right Track Medical Group seeks to improve this limited access to care and ultimately, improve patient outcomes.  

Our approach prioritizes collaboration amongst our experienced team of physicians, therapists and nurse practitioners. The clinical protocols and procedures we have in place ensures that patients receive a high quality of care and reduces the possibilities of misdiagnosis or mistreatment.

“This rigorous standard of care means that patient outcomes become sustainable, and patients can get the help they need before their mental health reaches a crisis level,” said Dr. Pannel.

And, with physician-led teams, patients have access to a broader range of experts all in one location, eliminating fragmented care. This approach also allows for highly individualized care, because patients have access to an entire team that understands the full scope of the patient’s needs.

“While the physician is ultimately taking responsibility for that patient, you have psychologists, therapists and nurse practitioners managing care on a day-to-day basis,” said Dr. Pannel. “So, you have all of these providers collaborating together to make sure everyone is on the same page and ensuring the patient is getting the best possible care that is tailored to their needs.”

For more information on our approach to mental healthcare, visit https://www.righttrackmedical.com/about or listen to our experts on our podcast, South of Fine.