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26 July 2024
Dr. Chong
123 Medical Centre
456 Health Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Dear Dr Chong,
Re: John Doe
DOB: 15/03/1985
ph: 0412 345 678
Address: 789 Patient Road, Sydney NSW 2000
Problem List:
• Major Depressive Disorder, recurrent, moderate
• Generalised Anxiety Disorder
• Insomnia
• Hypertension
Medications:
• Sertraline 100mg daily
• Propranolol 40mg twice daily
• Temazepam 10mg nocte PRN
Allergies: No known allergies
Past Psychiatric Treatment History: First depressive episode at age 25, treated with fluoxetine for 6 months. Recurrence at age 32, treated with cognitive behavioural therapy and sertraline. No psychiatric hospitalisations.
Family Psychiatric History: Mother diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Paternal uncle with history of alcohol use disorder.
Family Medical History: Father with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. Maternal grandmother with breast cancer.
Substance Use History: Non-smoker. Alcohol intake 2-3 standard drinks per week. No illicit drug use. Past cannabis use in university, ceased 10 years ago.
Forensic History: No significant forensic history
Thank you for referring John Doe for psychiatric assessment regarding worsening depressive symptoms and anxiety.
Mental State Examination: 39-year-old male, well-groomed, appeared older than stated age. Maintained good eye contact. Psychomotor retardation noted. Mood subjectively low, affect constricted. Speech slow in rate and monotonous. Thought process logical and goal-directed. No evidence of thought disorder or perceptual disturbances. Denied suicidal ideation. Cognitively intact. Limited insight into severity of depressive symptoms.
Impression: Overall, it was my impression that John meets criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, recurrent episode, moderate severity, with comorbid Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Current psychosocial stressors including work pressures and relationship difficulties appear to have exacerbated his symptoms. No acute safety concerns identified.
Treatment Recommendations: Increase sertraline to 150mg daily. Refer for cognitive behavioural therapy focusing on depression and anxiety management. Consider adding mirtazapine 15mg nocte for insomnia if sleep does not improve with sertraline increase. Review in 4 weeks to assess response. Encourage regular exercise and sleep hygiene practices.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Sarah Johnson
Consultant Psychiatrist
MBBS, FRANZCP
Provider No: 1234567A
I saw Zoe Adams again today on 15th May 2023 accompanied by her mother.
As you are aware, Zoe has a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), predominantly inattentive type. Recent assessments indicate a potential comorbid anxiety disorder, which we are monitoring closely.
On the whole, I am extremely pleased with Zoe's progress. Her concentration has improved significantly, particularly in school settings. However, some challenges persist in social interactions, possibly related to emerging anxiety symptoms.
We discussed implementing cognitive behavioral strategies to address Zoe's anxiety. I've provided her family with resources on relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises suitable for adolescents.
Zoe remains on Methylphenidate 30mg once daily, which has been effective in managing her ADHD symptoms. We're considering adding a low dose of Sertraline to address the anxiety, pending further evaluation.
I plan to see Zoe again in 6 weeks to reassess her progress and decide on potential anxiety medication. In the meantime, please monitor for any adverse effects from her current medication regimen. If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me on 0412 345 678.
CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT
GP Management Plan Review: MBS Item 732
Patient's Name: Mr John Doe Date of Birth: 15/06/1965
Contact Details: 123 Main Street, Suburbia, NSW 2000
Home Phone: 02 9876 5432
Work Phone: 02 8765 4321
Mobile Phone: 0412 345 678
Medicare No.: 2345 67890 1
Details of Patient's Usual GP: Dr Chong
123 Medical Centre
456 Health Street, Suburbia, NSW 2000
Details of Patient's Carer (if applicable): Not applicable
If the patient has a previous or existing care plan, when was it prepared and what were the outcomes?: On: 15/03/2023 By: Dr Chong
Other notes or comments relevant to the patient's care planning: Patient has shown improvement in blood pressure control but struggles with medication adherence
Medications:
Perindopril 5 mg tablet, one daily
Metformin 500 mg tablet, one twice daily
Atorvastatin 20 mg tablet, one at night
Allergies: Penicillin
I have explained the steps and costs involved, and the patient has agreed to proceed with the service:
GP Signature: _________________ Date: __________
GP MANAGEMENT PLAN
Patient problems / needs / relevant conditions:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Hypertension
Hyperlipidaemia
Goals - changes to be achieved:
Improve glycaemic control
Maintain blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg
Reduce LDL cholesterol to <2.0 mmol/L
Required treatments and services:
Task Provider Due
HbA1c test Dr Chong 15/09/2023
Lipid profile Dr Chong 15/09/2023
Dietitian review Ms Smith 30/09/2023
Arrangements for treatments/services:
Provider Phone Fax
Dr Chong 02 9876 5432 02 9876 5433
Ms Smith 02 8765 4321 02 8765 4322
Copy of GPMP offered to patient?: Yes
Copy / relevant parts of the GPMP supplied to other providers?: Yes
GPMP added to the patient's records?: Yes
Date service was completed: 15/06/2023 Review Date: 15/12/2023
CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT
Team Care Arrangement Review: MBS Item 732
TEAM CARE ARRANGEMENTS
Copy of TCA offered to patient?: Yes
Copy / relevant parts of the TCA supplied to other providers?: Yes
TCA added to the patient's records?: Yes
Referral forms for Medicare allied health and dental care services completed?: Yes
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to refer Mrs. Emily Thompson, a 32-year-old primigravida, for antenatal care. Mrs. Thompson has recently confirmed her pregnancy and requires comprehensive prenatal management. Given her medical history and current pregnancy status, I believe she would benefit from your expertise in obstetrics. Please find below the relevant patient information and medical details to assist in her care.
Patient Information
• Name: Emily Thompson
• Date of Birth: 15/09/1991
• Address: 123 Maple Street, Riverdale, NY 10463
• Contact Number: (718) 555-1234
Current Pregnancy
• LMP: 03/01/2023
• EDD: 10/08/2023
• Ultrasound findings: Viable intrauterine pregnancy, CRL consistent with 8 weeks gestation
Obstetric History
• G1P0
• No previous pregnancies or miscarriages
Medical History
• Mild asthma, well-controlled
• Appendectomy (2015)
• Allergic to penicillin
Family History
• Maternal: Hypertension
• Paternal: Type 2 diabetes
Medications
• Albuterol inhaler (as needed)
• Prenatal vitamins
Social and Demographic Data
• Occupation: Elementary school teacher
• Non-smoker
• No alcohol consumption since pregnancy confirmation
• No recreational drug use
Mrs. Thompson has undergone initial blood work, including a complete blood count, blood type, and Rh factor. Her pap smear is up to date, performed six months ago with normal results. I have also requested routine first-trimester screening tests, including HIV, hepatitis B, and rubella antibody titers.
Thank you for accepting this referral. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information or have any concerns regarding Mrs. Thompson's care.
Thank you for referring John Doe to our clinic for lower back pain.
John Doe's initial appointment was on 15th May 2023.
John Doe presented with:
• Severe lower back pain, rated 8/10 on the pain scale
• Limited range of motion in lumbar spine, particularly in flexion
• Positive straight leg raise test at 45 degrees
• Decreased sensation in L5 dermatome of left foot
The plan with physiotherapy is: manual therapy for the lumbar spine to improve mobility and reduce pain, home-based core strengthening exercises, and a progressive walking program to improve overall function and endurance.
If you have any questions regarding John Doe's physiotherapy, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0412 345 678.
Thank you again for referring John Doe.
Home:
• The patient resides at 123 Maple Street, Suburbia, with her parents and younger sister
• Recent changes include moving to a new school district 6 months ago
• Reports increased stress due to academic pressure and making new friends
• Spends approximately 4 hours daily on social media and gaming
Education & Employment:
• Currently enrolled as a junior at Suburbia High School
• Maintains a B average but struggling in mathematics
• Part-time job at local grocery store (10 hours/week)
• Plans to apply to state universities next year
Eating & Exercise:
• Weight: 65 kg, height: 165 cm
• Skips breakfast regularly, tends to snack late at night
• Participates in school soccer team, practices 3 times/week
• Menstrual cycles regular, every 28-30 days
Activities:
• Member of school drama club, rehearsals twice weekly
• Plays guitar as a hobby, self-taught
• Screen time averages 6 hours daily (including homework)
Drugs & Alcohol:
• Denies personal use of alcohol or drugs
• Reports some friends experimenting with marijuana at parties
• No known substance use in immediate family
Sexuality & Gender:
• Identifies as female, uses she/her pronouns
• Currently in a 6-month relationship with male classmate
• Sexually active, uses condoms for contraception
• No history of pregnancies or STIs
Suicide, Depression & Self-Harm:
• Reports feeling overwhelmed and sad occasionally
• Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep, averages 6 hours/night
• Denies self-harm behaviors or suicidal ideation
• No history of diagnosed mental health conditions
Safety:
• No serious injuries in past year
• Reports being cautious about online privacy
• No exposure to domestic violence or abuse
• No involvement in criminal activities
Templates made specifically for general practitioners
CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT
GP Management Plan Review: MBS Item 732
Patient's Name: Mr John Doe Date of Birth: 15/06/1965
Contact Details: 123 Main Street, Suburbia, NSW 2000
Home Phone: 02 9876 5432
Work Phone: 02 8765 4321
Mobile Phone: 0412 345 678
Medicare No.: 2345 67890 1
Details of Patient's Usual GP: Dr Chong
123 Medical Centre
456 Health Street, Suburbia, NSW 2000
Details of Patient's Carer (if applicable): Not applicable
If the patient has a previous or existing care plan, when was it prepared and what were the outcomes?: On: 15/03/2023 By: Dr Chong
Other notes or comments relevant to the patient's care planning: Patient has shown improvement in blood pressure control but struggles with medication adherence
Medications:
Perindopril 5 mg tablet, one daily
Metformin 500 mg tablet, one twice daily
Atorvastatin 20 mg tablet, one at night
Allergies: Penicillin
I have explained the steps and costs involved, and the patient has agreed to proceed with the service:
GP Signature: _________________ Date: __________
GP MANAGEMENT PLAN
Patient problems / needs / relevant conditions:
Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Hypertension
Hyperlipidaemia
Goals - changes to be achieved:
Improve glycaemic control
Maintain blood pressure below 130/80 mmHg
Reduce LDL cholesterol to <2.0 mmol/L
Required treatments and services:
Task Provider Due
HbA1c test Dr Chong 15/09/2023
Lipid profile Dr Chong 15/09/2023
Dietitian review Ms Smith 30/09/2023
Arrangements for treatments/services:
Provider Phone Fax
Dr Chong 02 9876 5432 02 9876 5433
Ms Smith 02 8765 4321 02 8765 4322
Copy of GPMP offered to patient?: Yes
Copy / relevant parts of the GPMP supplied to other providers?: Yes
GPMP added to the patient's records?: Yes
Date service was completed: 15/06/2023 Review Date: 15/12/2023
CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT
Team Care Arrangement Review: MBS Item 732
TEAM CARE ARRANGEMENTS
Copy of TCA offered to patient?: Yes
Copy / relevant parts of the TCA supplied to other providers?: Yes
TCA added to the patient's records?: Yes
Referral forms for Medicare allied health and dental care services completed?: Yes
Dear Dr. Johnson,
I am writing to refer Mrs. Emily Thompson, a 32-year-old primigravida, for antenatal care. Mrs. Thompson has recently confirmed her pregnancy and requires comprehensive prenatal management. Given her medical history and current pregnancy status, I believe she would benefit from your expertise in obstetrics. Please find below the relevant patient information and medical details to assist in her care.
Patient Information
• Name: Emily Thompson
• Date of Birth: 15/09/1991
• Address: 123 Maple Street, Riverdale, NY 10463
• Contact Number: (718) 555-1234
Current Pregnancy
• LMP: 03/01/2023
• EDD: 10/08/2023
• Ultrasound findings: Viable intrauterine pregnancy, CRL consistent with 8 weeks gestation
Obstetric History
• G1P0
• No previous pregnancies or miscarriages
Medical History
• Mild asthma, well-controlled
• Appendectomy (2015)
• Allergic to penicillin
Family History
• Maternal: Hypertension
• Paternal: Type 2 diabetes
Medications
• Albuterol inhaler (as needed)
• Prenatal vitamins
Social and Demographic Data
• Occupation: Elementary school teacher
• Non-smoker
• No alcohol consumption since pregnancy confirmation
• No recreational drug use
Mrs. Thompson has undergone initial blood work, including a complete blood count, blood type, and Rh factor. Her pap smear is up to date, performed six months ago with normal results. I have also requested routine first-trimester screening tests, including HIV, hepatitis B, and rubella antibody titers.
Thank you for accepting this referral. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you require any additional information or have any concerns regarding Mrs. Thompson's care.
John Smith, born on 15/03/1976 (47 years old), is married with two children aged 12 and 9. He works as a software engineer for a tech company in the city. Mr. Smith lives with his family in a suburban area and commutes to work daily. He maintains an active lifestyle, regularly participating in weekend sports activities with his children.
• Current medications: Lisinopril 10mg daily for hypertension
• Allergies: Penicillin (rash)
• Recent vaccinations: Influenza vaccine (3 months ago)
• Smoking: Non-smoker
• Alcohol consumption: 2-3 standard drinks per week, usually on weekends
• Hypertension diagnosed 2 years ago, well-controlled with medication
• Appendectomy at age 15
• Fractured left wrist from a cycling accident 5 years ago, fully healed
• Father: Type 2 diabetes diagnosed at age 60
• Mother: Breast cancer at age 55, in remission
• Maternal grandmother: Osteoarthritis
Mr. Smith's overall health status is generally good. He maintains a healthy weight, exercises regularly, and manages his hypertension effectively with medication. However, there are concerns about his family history of diabetes and cancer. We discussed the importance of regular check-ups, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and being vigilant about early signs of these conditions. Mr. Smith expressed understanding and commitment to following preventive measures.
• Blood pressure: 125/80 mmHg (within normal range)
• BMI: 24.5 (normal weight)
• Fasting blood glucose: 5.2 mmol/L (normal)
• Total cholesterol: 4.8 mmol/L (within normal range)
1. Asthma: Low risk. No personal or family history. No action required.
2. Cardiovascular illness: Moderate risk due to hypertension and family history of diabetes. Action: Continue blood pressure medication and monitoring.
3. Diabetes: Moderate risk due to family history. Action: Annual blood glucose testing and lifestyle counseling.
4. Mental health: Low risk. No personal or family history. Continue monitoring during regular check-ups.
5. Arthritis: Low to moderate risk due to family history. Action: Maintain healthy weight and exercise regimen.
1. Smoking: Non-smoker. No intervention required.
2. Nutrition: Generally good. Advised to increase fruit and vegetable intake.
3. Alcohol: Low risk. Consumption within recommended limits.
4. Physical activity: Adequate. Encouraged to maintain current exercise routine.
5. Mood: No concerns. Appears to manage stress well through regular exercise and family activities.
1. Blood pressure: Well-controlled with medication. Continue monitoring.
2. Body weight: Normal BMI. Advised to maintain current weight.
3. Cholesterol: Within normal range. Recheck in 2 years.
4. Glucose metabolism: Normal. Annual testing recommended due to family history of diabetes.
• Fasting lipid profile: To be scheduled in 2 years
• Fasting blood glucose: Annual testing
• Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test: To be considered at age 50 or earlier if family history changes
Mr. Smith was advised to maintain his current healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet. We discussed the importance of stress management techniques and maintaining work-life balance. He was encouraged to continue his blood pressure medication as prescribed and attend annual check-ups to monitor his risk factors, particularly for diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Mr. Smith agreed to schedule a follow-up appointment in 12 months for reassessment and to discuss any new health concerns that may arise.
Dear Dr. Emily Thompson,
Thank you for agreeing to see Mrs. Sarah Johnson under the Better Access Scheme for six sessions. Your expertise in managing her current mental health concerns is greatly appreciated. Please find enclosed the Mental Health Care Plan for your review. If you require any further information or have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact me. I look forward to your assessment and recommendations for Mrs. Johnson's ongoing care.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Roberts
[Signature space]
Patient Problem/s
• Major Depressive Disorder, Recurrent, Moderate (DSM-5: 296.32)
• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (DSM-5: 300.02)
Background to the current problems
Mrs. Johnson, a 42-year-old female, presents with a 6-month history of worsening depressive symptoms and anxiety. She reports persistent low mood, anhedonia, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, which have significantly impacted her daily functioning. Previous treatments include a trial of sertraline 50mg daily for 3 months, which provided minimal relief. Currently, she is taking escitalopram 10mg daily, prescribed 4 weeks ago, and attending weekly mindfulness classes. No previous psychological interventions have been attempted.
Social History
Mrs. Johnson is married with two children aged 10 and 12. She denies smoking or illicit drug use but reports occasional alcohol consumption (2-3 glasses of wine per week). Previously employed as a high school teacher, she is currently on leave due to her mental health concerns. Mrs. Johnson is of Caucasian descent and was born and raised in Australia. She describes a supportive family environment but feels increasingly isolated due to her symptoms.
Mental State Examination
• Appearance: Well-groomed, appropriate attire
• Behavior: Cooperative, mildly psychomotor retarded
• Speech: Normal rate and volume, slightly monotonous
• Mood: Depressed
• Affect: Restricted, congruent with mood
• Thought form: Logical and coherent
• Thought content: No delusions or obsessions noted
• Perception: No hallucinations reported
• Cognition: Alert and oriented, intact memory
• Insight: Good
• Judgment: Intact
• Risk assessment: Low risk of self-harm, no suicidal ideation
• Key family contact: Mr. David Johnson (husband) - 0412 345 678
Formulation
Mrs. Johnson's presentation is consistent with Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder, likely exacerbated by work-related stress and difficulty balancing family responsibilities. Her current treatment includes medication management by myself and weekly mindfulness classes. Patient education has been provided regarding the nature of depression and anxiety, the importance of adherence to medication, and the potential benefits of psychological interventions.
Expectations and Concerns
1. Problem: Major Depressive Disorder and Generalized Anxiety Disorder
2. Goals: Reduce depressive symptoms, manage anxiety, improve daily functioning
3. Action/Tasks: Engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, continue medication as prescribed
4. Emergency care/relapse prevention: Crisis plan discussed, including contact numbers for mental health crisis team
5. Initial action plan: Weekly therapy sessions, medication review in 4 weeks
6. Patient consent: Mrs. Johnson has provided verbal consent for this referral and sharing of information
Referring GP Details
Dr. Michael Roberts, MBBS, FRACGP, Greenwood Medical Centre, 123 Main Street, Sydney, NSW 2000. Phone: (02) 9876 5432. Fax: (02) 9876 5433. Provider Number: 1234567A.
Issues addressed in GPMP
• Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
• Hypertension
• Hyperlipidemia
• Obesity
• Osteoarthritis (knee)
Current Medications
Metformin 1000mg BD for diabetes. Ramipril 5mg OD for hypertension. Atorvastatin 20mg OD for hyperlipidemia. Paracetamol 1g QID PRN for osteoarthritis pain.
Update of Health Issues
• Type 2 Diabetes: HbA1c improved from 7.8% to 7.2%.
• Hypertension: BP stable at 138/82 mmHg.
• Hyperlipidemia: LDL-C reduced to 2.8 mmol/L.
• Obesity: BMI decreased from 32 to 30.5 kg/m².
• Osteoarthritis: Pain score reduced from 7/10 to 5/10.
Goals
• Type 2 Diabetes: Achieve HbA1c ≤ 7.0% within 6 months.
• Hypertension: Maintain BP < 130/80 mmHg.
• Hyperlipidemia: Reach LDL-C < 2.5 mmol/L in 3 months.
• Obesity: Reduce BMI to < 30 kg/m² in 6 months.
• Osteoarthritis: Maintain pain score ≤ 4/10.
For Medication Review (DDMR)
Mental Health Treatment Plan
The patient, Sarah Thompson, has provided informed consent for this mental health care plan and agrees to share it with her psychologist, Dr. Emily Chen.
Background
Sarah Thompson is a 28-year-old female with a history of anxiety and depression since her late teens. She had her first mental health review with her GP at age 19, which resulted in a referral to a psychologist. Sarah attended six sessions of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) but discontinued due to financial constraints. She has never been admitted to a mental health unit. Sarah was prescribed sertraline 50mg daily for depression two years ago by her previous GP but stopped taking it after three months due to side effects. No other relevant medical history was reported.
Current Mental Health Issues
Sarah presents with symptoms of persistent low mood, fatigue, and difficulty concentrating, which have worsened over the past six months. She reports frequent worry about her job performance and social interactions, leading to avoidance behaviors. Sarah also experiences occasional panic attacks, characterized by heart palpitations, sweating, and a sense of impending doom. These symptoms have significantly impacted her daily functioning and quality of life.
Screen for mental health conditions
Sarah's symptoms are consistent with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. There is no evidence of bipolar disorder, psychosis, or eating disorders based on the current assessment.
Social history
Childhood: Generally happy childhood, no significant trauma or abuse reported. Grew up in a suburban area with both parents and a younger sister.
Home life: Currently lives alone in a small apartment in the city.
Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing. No reported issues during her education.
Employment: Works as a marketing coordinator for a medium-sized company. Recently feeling overwhelmed and anxious about job performance.
Lifestyle: Non-smoker, occasional alcohol use (1-2 drinks per week), no illicit drug use. Inconsistent exercise routine.
Relationships/sexuality: Single, ended a 3-year relationship 8 months ago. Reports difficulty forming new relationships due to anxiety.
MSE
Appearance: Well-groomed, appropriately dressed
Behavior: Cooperative, maintained good eye contact, occasionally fidgety
Speech: Normal rate and volume, coherent
Mood: "Anxious and down"
Affect: Congruent with mood, restricted range
Thoughts: Logical and goal-directed, no evidence of thought disorder
Perception: No hallucinations or delusions reported or observed
Insight: Good insight into her mental health issues
Judgement: Intact
Suicidal thoughts: Denies current suicidal ideation or intent
Cognition: Alert and oriented, no apparent cognitive deficits
Formulation
Predisposing factors:
- Family history of anxiety (mother)
- Perfectionist tendencies developed in childhood
Precipitating factors:
- Recent job promotion with increased responsibilities
- End of long-term relationship 8 months ago
Perpetuating factors:
- Social isolation due to avoidance behaviors
- Negative self-talk and catastrophic thinking
- Poor sleep hygiene
Protective factors:
- Good insight into her condition
- Supportive family
- Motivation to improve mental health
- Stable employment
Impression
Sarah presents with symptoms consistent with major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder. Her anxiety appears to be significantly impacting her daily functioning and contributing to her depressive symptoms. Differential diagnoses to consider include adjustment disorder with mixed anxiety and depressed mood, given the recent life changes.
Assessment tool
DASS-21 scores:
Depression: 24 (Severe)
Anxiety: 18 (Severe)
Stress: 28 (Severe)
Risk assessment
Suicide: Low risk. No current suicidal ideation, intent, or plan. No history of suicide attempts.
Homicide: No risk. No homicidal ideation or intent reported.
Self-harm: Low risk. No current self-harm behaviors or intentions reported.
Goals
1. Reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety
- Refer to psychologist for CBT, focusing on challenging negative thoughts and developing coping strategies
- Consider reintroduction of antidepressant medication (SSRI) after discussing options and potential side effects
2. Improve social connections and reduce avoidance behaviors
- Gradually increase social interactions through exposure therapy techniques
- Join a local support group for individuals with anxiety and depression
3. Enhance work-life balance and stress management
- Implement time management and prioritization strategies
- Practice mindfulness and relaxation techniques daily
Plan
Referrals:
1. Psychologist: Dr. Emily Chen for CBT, 6-8 sessions initially
2. Psychiatrist: Dr. Mark Johnson for medication evaluation and management
Psychoeducation on depression, anxiety, and the importance of self-care provided during the consultation.
Emergency care: Lifeline 13 11 14 : Mental Health Access Line 1800 011 511
Psycho-education performed: Yes
Patient agreement to goals: Yes
Copy of plan given to patient: Yes
Review Date: Patient is scheduled for a follow-up consultation in 4 weeks for reassessment and review of the mental health care plan.
Crisis plan
1. Recognize early warning signs of worsening symptoms (e.g., increased isolation, persistent negative thoughts)
2. Utilize learned coping strategies (deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation)
3. Reach out to a trusted friend or family member for support
4. Contact psychologist or GP if symptoms persist or worsen
5. In case of emergency or suicidal thoughts, call Lifeline (13 11 14) or go to the nearest emergency department
6. Keep a list of emergency contacts readily available, including healthcare providers and support persons
26 July 2024
Dr. Chong
123 Medical Centre
456 Health Street
Sydney NSW 2000
Dear Dr Chong,
Re: John Doe
DOB: 15/03/1985
ph: 0412 345 678
Address: 789 Patient Road, Sydney NSW 2000
Problem List:
• Major Depressive Disorder, recurrent, moderate
• Generalised Anxiety Disorder
• Insomnia
• Hypertension
Medications:
• Sertraline 100mg daily
• Propranolol 40mg twice daily
• Temazepam 10mg nocte PRN
Allergies: No known allergies
Past Psychiatric Treatment History: First depressive episode at age 25, treated with fluoxetine for 6 months. Recurrence at age 32, treated with cognitive behavioural therapy and sertraline. No psychiatric hospitalisations.
Family Psychiatric History: Mother diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Paternal uncle with history of alcohol use disorder.
Family Medical History: Father with type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. Maternal grandmother with breast cancer.
Substance Use History: Non-smoker. Alcohol intake 2-3 standard drinks per week. No illicit drug use. Past cannabis use in university, ceased 10 years ago.
Forensic History: No significant forensic history
Thank you for referring John Doe for psychiatric assessment regarding worsening depressive symptoms and anxiety.
Mental State Examination: 39-year-old male, well-groomed, appeared older than stated age. Maintained good eye contact. Psychomotor retardation noted. Mood subjectively low, affect constricted. Speech slow in rate and monotonous. Thought process logical and goal-directed. No evidence of thought disorder or perceptual disturbances. Denied suicidal ideation. Cognitively intact. Limited insight into severity of depressive symptoms.
Impression: Overall, it was my impression that John meets criteria for Major Depressive Disorder, recurrent episode, moderate severity, with comorbid Generalised Anxiety Disorder. Current psychosocial stressors including work pressures and relationship difficulties appear to have exacerbated his symptoms. No acute safety concerns identified.
Treatment Recommendations: Increase sertraline to 150mg daily. Refer for cognitive behavioural therapy focusing on depression and anxiety management. Consider adding mirtazapine 15mg nocte for insomnia if sleep does not improve with sertraline increase. Review in 4 weeks to assess response. Encourage regular exercise and sleep hygiene practices.
Yours sincerely,
Dr. Sarah Johnson
Consultant Psychiatrist
MBBS, FRANZCP
Provider No: 1234567A
I saw Zoe Adams again today on 15th May 2023 accompanied by her mother.
As you are aware, Zoe has a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), predominantly inattentive type. Recent assessments indicate a potential comorbid anxiety disorder, which we are monitoring closely.
On the whole, I am extremely pleased with Zoe's progress. Her concentration has improved significantly, particularly in school settings. However, some challenges persist in social interactions, possibly related to emerging anxiety symptoms.
We discussed implementing cognitive behavioral strategies to address Zoe's anxiety. I've provided her family with resources on relaxation techniques and mindfulness exercises suitable for adolescents.
Zoe remains on Methylphenidate 30mg once daily, which has been effective in managing her ADHD symptoms. We're considering adding a low dose of Sertraline to address the anxiety, pending further evaluation.
I plan to see Zoe again in 6 weeks to reassess her progress and decide on potential anxiety medication. In the meantime, please monitor for any adverse effects from her current medication regimen. If you have any concerns, please don't hesitate to contact me on 0412 345 678.
Thank you for referring John Doe to our clinic for lower back pain.
John Doe's initial appointment was on 15th May 2023.
John Doe presented with:
• Severe lower back pain, rated 8/10 on the pain scale
• Limited range of motion in lumbar spine, particularly in flexion
• Positive straight leg raise test at 45 degrees
• Decreased sensation in L5 dermatome of left foot
The plan with physiotherapy is: manual therapy for the lumbar spine to improve mobility and reduce pain, home-based core strengthening exercises, and a progressive walking program to improve overall function and endurance.
If you have any questions regarding John Doe's physiotherapy, please do not hesitate to contact me on 0412 345 678.
Thank you again for referring John Doe.
Home:
• The patient resides at 123 Maple Street, Suburbia, with her parents and younger sister
• Recent changes include moving to a new school district 6 months ago
• Reports increased stress due to academic pressure and making new friends
• Spends approximately 4 hours daily on social media and gaming
Education & Employment:
• Currently enrolled as a junior at Suburbia High School
• Maintains a B average but struggling in mathematics
• Part-time job at local grocery store (10 hours/week)
• Plans to apply to state universities next year
Eating & Exercise:
• Weight: 65 kg, height: 165 cm
• Skips breakfast regularly, tends to snack late at night
• Participates in school soccer team, practices 3 times/week
• Menstrual cycles regular, every 28-30 days
Activities:
• Member of school drama club, rehearsals twice weekly
• Plays guitar as a hobby, self-taught
• Screen time averages 6 hours daily (including homework)
Drugs & Alcohol:
• Denies personal use of alcohol or drugs
• Reports some friends experimenting with marijuana at parties
• No known substance use in immediate family
Sexuality & Gender:
• Identifies as female, uses she/her pronouns
• Currently in a 6-month relationship with male classmate
• Sexually active, uses condoms for contraception
• No history of pregnancies or STIs
Suicide, Depression & Self-Harm:
• Reports feeling overwhelmed and sad occasionally
• Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep, averages 6 hours/night
• Denies self-harm behaviors or suicidal ideation
• No history of diagnosed mental health conditions
Safety:
• No serious injuries in past year
• Reports being cautious about online privacy
• No exposure to domestic violence or abuse
• No involvement in criminal activities
Interview Context:
I met with Sarah Johnson and her husband, Tom. Sarah expressed concern about her increasing anxiety levels and their impact on her daily life. Tom provided additional context and observations regarding Sarah's symptoms.
Profile:
Sarah Johnson is a 35-year-old married woman living in suburban Melbourne. She works as a primary school teacher and enjoys gardening and yoga in her free time.
Presenting Complaint:
Sarah is seeking help for worsening anxiety symptoms that are interfering with her work and personal life.
History of Presenting Complaint:
Anxiety symptoms began six months ago, gradually intensifying. Sarah experiences frequent worry about work performance, health, and family matters. Difficulty controlling these thoughts, often leading to physical symptoms.
Anxiety symptoms:
Excessive worry about various aspects of life. Racing thoughts, difficulty concentrating. Physical symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, and trembling. Avoids social gatherings and public speaking at work.
Mood symptoms:
Low mood accompanying anxiety episodes. Feelings of worthlessness and guilt, particularly related to work performance. No significant changes in appetite or weight.
Vegetative features:
Insomnia, taking 1-2 hours to fall asleep. Wakes multiple times during night. Fatigue throughout the day, affecting work performance. Concentration difficulties, especially during anxious periods. No significant diurnal mood variation.
Manic or Psychotic features:
No manic symptoms or episodes reported. No hallucinations, delusions, or other psychotic features observed or reported.
Risks:
No current suicidal ideation or intent. No history of self-harm or suicide attempts. No homicidal ideation or aggressive behavior.
Recent stressors:
Increased workload at school. Mother-in-law diagnosed with cancer three months ago. Financial concerns due to recent home renovation. Attributes anxiety to work stress and family health worries. Overall functioning impaired, particularly in work and social domains.
Past History:
- Mild depressive episode at age 25.
- Appendectomy at age 18.
- Asthma diagnosed in childhood, well-controlled.
Medication:
- Salbutamol inhaler PRN for asthma
- Trial of sertraline 50mg daily for 2 months (discontinued due to side effects)
Alcohol / Substance Use:
- Alcohol: 1-2 glasses of wine per week, socially
- No illicit substance use
- No smoking
Family History:
- Mother: Generalized Anxiety Disorder.
- Father: Type 2 Diabetes.
- Maternal grandmother: Depression.
Developmental History:
- Unremarkable pregnancy and delivery
- Met developmental milestones appropriately
- Described as a shy child, difficulty making friends in primary school
- Parents divorced when patient was 14, experienced adjustment difficulties
- Excelled academically throughout schooling
Mental State Examination:
Appropriately dressed, well-groomed woman appearing stated age. Mild psychomotor agitation, fidgeting with hands. Speech normal in rate and volume. Affect anxious, mood congruent. No perceptual disturbances. Thought process logical and coherent. No evidence of thought disorder or delusions. Cognition intact, oriented to time, place, and person. Good rapport established. Partial insight into condition. Judgment unimpaired.
Impression:
Sarah presents with symptoms consistent with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) as per DSM-5 criteria. Biological factors include genetic predisposition (family history of anxiety). Psychological factors involve perfectionist tendencies and negative self-talk. Social stressors include work pressure and family illness. Precipitating factors: increased work responsibilities and mother-in-law's cancer diagnosis. Maintaining factors: avoidance behaviors and rumination. Protective factors include supportive spouse and engagement in yoga. No immediate risk to self or others identified. Differential diagnosis includes Adjustment Disorder with Anxiety.
Plan:
- Commence cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) for anxiety management
- Consider trial of SSRI (e.g., escitalopram 10mg daily) for symptom relief
- Encourage continuation of yoga and introduction of mindfulness practices
- Provide psychoeducation on anxiety and sleep hygiene
- Review in 4 weeks to assess progress and medication response if initiated
- Liaise with GP for ongoing physical health monitoring
Patient Assessment – Mental Health
- Persistent low mood for 3 months
- Difficulty sleeping, averaging 4-5 hours per night
- Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Fatigue and low energy levels throughout the day
- Poor concentration affecting work performance
- Occasional suicidal thoughts without plan or intent
- Expresses feelings of worthlessness, stating "I feel like I'm failing at everything"
Mental Health History
- No previous mental health diagnoses
- Brief counseling during university for stress management (5 years ago)
- No history of psychiatric medications
- Never seen a psychiatrist
Social/Family History
- Single, living alone in a rented apartment
- Full-time employment as an accountant
- Limited social support network
- Mother diagnosed with depression in her 40s
- No other known family history of mental health issues
Mental Status Examination
- Appearance: Adequately groomed, slightly disheveled
- Behavior: Slow movements, slumped posture
- Speech: Slow rate, low volume
- Mood: Depressed
- Affect: Flat, congruent with mood
- Thought Process: Linear, goal-directed
- Thought Content: No delusions or hallucinations
- Insight: Partial
- Judgment: Intact
Outcome Measurement Tool
K10: 32
Risk Assessment
- Passive suicidal ideation without plan or intent
- No history of self-harm
- No risk to others
Provisional Diagnosis
- Major Depressive Disorder, single episode, moderate
Issues/problems
- Persistent depressive symptoms impacting daily functioning
- Sleep disturbance contributing to daytime fatigue
- Social isolation exacerbating low mood
- Work performance affected by poor concentration
Goals
- Improve mood and reduce depressive symptoms
- Establish healthy sleep patterns
- Increase social engagement and support network
- Enhance work productivity through improved concentration
Actions for patient
- Commence antidepressant medication as prescribed
- Attend weekly psychological therapy sessions
- Implement sleep hygiene techniques
- Gradually increase physical activity, starting with daily 15-minute walks
- Reconnect with one friend or family member each week
Plan for Crisis Intervention and/or for Relapse Prevention:
- Identify early warning signs of worsening mood
- Develop a list of coping strategies for managing low mood
- Create a safety plan for managing suicidal thoughts
- Schedule regular check-ins with GP to monitor progress
- Engage in regular physical activity to maintain mood stability
Emergency care: Lifeline 13 11 14 : Mental Health Access Line 1800 011 511
Psycho-education performed: Yes
Patient agreement to goals: Yes
Copy of plan given to patient: Yes