Mental Health and Substance Use KEEPING YOU INFORMED September 2014 New Westminster Mental Health & Substance Use Services Psychiatric Rapid Access Clinic (RAC) Who: New Westminster Mental Health and Substance Use Services What: a new Psychiatric Rapid Access Clinic (RAC) for New Westminster residents has been developed, in conjunction with the Fraser Northwest Division of Family Practice, to provide GPs/NPs with timely access to a Psychiatrist for one time consultation re: diagnosis, medication review, and treatment recommendations. This consultation service is intended to augment the current treatment already initiated by the GP/NP. Psychiatric Resident Dr. Charlena Chan along with a Mental Health Nurse will be providing this service. Target population: Adults aged 19 and older, living in New Westminster, affected by moderate mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, who are NOT presenting at risk for imminent harm. Where: New Westminster Mental Health Centre at 403 – 6th Street, 3rd Floor, New Westminster, BC When: The Rapid Access Clinic (RAC) will operate on Fridays, starting September 19, 2014. Referrals received will be scheduled to be seen on the first available Friday appointment time. Why: • • To provide more immediate access to timely psychiatric consultation in order to support and enhance the capacity of GPs to care for their patients. To provide service linkage, information sharing and collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health services. Who can refer to the clinic? GPs/NPs with patients who are New Westminster residents. Fax referral form to: New Westminster Mental Health Centre Rapid Access Clinic – 604-777-6848 What else? The GP may contact the Rapid Access Clinic for follow-up questions and advice regarding the client consult at (604) 777-6800 Fridays between the hours of 1430 – 1600 hrs. For more information: please contact Allison Luke, Manager, New Westminster Mental Health & Substance Use Services by calling (604) 777-6800.