Posted by Emily Elizabeth on February 16, 2006, at 21:05:08
In reply to Re: Suicide on Effexor, posted by Devastated Mother on February 16, 2006, at 15:44:09
Thanks to DM and SL for posting so openly about such a painful experience. It truly might save a life. And it gets us all to think a little about our society and medications.
First, I must say that I typically am not a huge advocate of lawsuits when things can be resolved by other means. However, in this case, I must admit that I am hoping you will pursue this route. While I do think that the MD was acting according to the standards of medical practice by maintaining confidentiality about treatment, it does sound like he needs to be held accountable for sloppy, irresponsible work.
For example, lets say that your child was suicidal before getting the effexor (I know you don't think that was the case, but for the sake of a general example, think about it.) Did the MD ask enough questions to assess whether the patient was suicidal or not? Did he refer the patient to a specialist (i.e. psychiatrist) for a complete assessment and treatment plan? Did he refer the patient to a psychotherapist to find other ways to address issues?
I'm willing to bet that the answer is "no" to all of the above. So many GP's skip these important steps and don't know how to address mental health probs. But they keep handing out psych meds. That is not okay. They need to know that if they are practicing in a specialty in which they are not trained, a tragedy could result. And, as the prescribing physician, they are accountable. The medical community needs to wake up about these issues.
Wishing you strength and healing.
Best,
EE
poster:Emily Elizabeth
thread:601406
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20060212/msgs/610431.html