OVERVIEW

Worldwide, Primary Care Practitioners frequently find themselves at the frontline of mental health care. Increasingly, these medical professionals are tasked with diagnosing and treating not only common but also complex and chronic psychiatric disorders. This conference equips primary care practitioners to confidently diagnose and manage the prevalent mental health conditions and associated comorbidities like cardiovascular disease, arthritis and diabetes. Our focus will be on evidence-based pharmacological interventions and the most recent advancements in the field of psychopharmacology. Upon completion, participants will be better prepared to handle behavioral and emotional health problems in their day-to-day practice. We will delve into a range of topics including basics of psychopharmacology; antidepressants; anxiolytics; mood stabilizers; antipsychotics; ADHD medications; treatments for substance use disorders; considerations for specific populations like women, children and seniors; and integrating medication with other treatments. The conference will be presented through a blend of enlightening lectures and engaging interactive discussions, providing participants with a robust foundation in psychopharmacology. Attendees will leave equipped with enhanced confidence to apply this knowledge in their primary practice settings. A special feature of this course is participants can present a case for review and discussion with faculty. 

TARGET AUDIENCE

Primary Care Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Pediatricians, Psychiatrists, Researchers in Psychopharmacology/Neuroscience, Substance Abuse/Mental Health Clinicians and Researchers, Specialty Physicians Psychologists and Physician Assistants.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES 

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of psychopharmacology fundamentals and the pharmacokinetics of frequently prescribed psychotropic medications;
• Recognize depression in clinical practice;
• Understand the role and limitations of standard antidepressant treatments;
• Develop strategies to accurately diagnose and manage important mental health symptoms and disorders, including depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety spectrum disorders, (GAD, OCD, Panic), sleep disorders, ADHD and substance use disorders;
• Identify and manage medication side effects, drug interactions, and potential adverse reactions;
• Assess the significance of pharmacogenomics in customizing psychopharmacological treatments for individual patients;
• Examine the utilization of psychotropic medications in special patient groups, such as children, adolescents, perinatal, pregnant and lactating women, and the elderly, along with patients with comorbid medical conditions;
• Explore non-pharmacological treatment alternatives and the significance of a holistic, patient-centered approach to mental health care;
• Effectively assess, document, and manage suicidality in primary care settings to protect their patients, and themselves medico-legally;
• Assimilate a more balanced perspective on the risks and benefits of benzodiazepine and how to prescribe them correctly and safely;
• Understand the concept and significance of digital psychiatry;
• Recognize the role of digital tools in psychiatric research and clinical care;
• Identify potential challenges and ethical considerations in digital psychiatry;
• Recognize when to consult with or refer to Psychiatry.

ACCREDITATION

Physicians: Pri-Med Institute is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education(ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians. Pri-Med Institute designates this live activity for a maximum of 14 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity. 

For more information please visit the official event page.