Caring for the Whole Person: A Practical Update on Common Medical-Psychiatric Comorbidities and Preventative Care for Clinical Practice-View Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The presentation focused on the holistic care of individuals with psychiatric and medical comorbidities, emphasizing the importance of integrating preventative care into clinical practice. Dr. Richards and Sandy Ngomu-Barak led the discussion, aiming to address life expectancy disparities for people with schizophrenia and bipolar disorders by reviewing common comorbidities and treatments. They highlighted the strong connection between mental and physical health, noting that adverse childhood experiences can significantly impact both areas, increasing risks for diseases like diabetes and cancer.<br /><br />Specific attention was given to screening and managing common health issues, such as smoking cessation, diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia, especially concerning patients taking psychiatric medications that might exacerbate these conditions. The use of medications like metformin to manage antipsychotic-induced weight gain was discussed, along with guidelines for cardiovascular risk reduction and appropriate screenings for cancer and infectious diseases.<br /><br />The session included interactive case discussions, exploring real-life scenarios to underscore the challenges and strategies in providing comprehensive care. The presenters emphasized the role of psychiatrists as frontline healthcare providers who can advocate for and educate patients on lifestyle changes, harm reduction strategies, and the importance of regular health screenings.<br /><br />Overall, the focus was on improving patient outcomes through coordinated care strategies that consider all aspects of a patient's health, helping them achieve longer and healthier lives. The session also supported attendees in understanding when and how to use various interventions and medications to manage these complex patient needs effectively.

Keywords

holistic care

psychiatric comorbidities

preventative care

life expectancy disparities

mental and physical health

adverse childhood experiences

screening and management

antipsychotic-induced weight gain

comprehensive care

coordinated care strategies