Austin, TX
A 62-year-old male asked:
My psychiatrists differ in diagnoses: bipolar ii with gen. anx disorder, ptsd plus panic - or plain vanilla depression only. who do i believe?
3 doctor answers • 10 doctors weighed in
Dr. Robert GalatzerLevyanswered
Child Psychiatry 51 years experience
Use your judgment: A psychiatrist should be able to explain in plain english how s/he reached a diagnosis and what it means for the patient. I would go with the doctor who was best able to do this.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Jeffrey Satinoveranswered
Psychiatry 40 years experience
Always frustrating: It is very frustrating when experts differ (in any subject, not just medicine). Let them know about this difference of opinion and see how they each respond. You have the right to expect a clear explanation, without dogmatic certainty. One immediate implication is that "plain vanilla" depression may be treated safely with antidepressants. Ptsd plus panic maybe (but safely, too), but not bipolar.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Heidi Fowleranswered
Psychiatry 26 years experience
Collaboration: Collaboration between providers who render care to the same patients is important for the safe practice of medicine. Ensure that your physicians/ providers have releases to discuss your case. Cement this with a verbal request that they discuss your diagnosis & your treatment plan.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
5.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Oct 4, 2016
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