Psychiatric Times Vol 20 No 13

It's often believed--even by mental health care professionals--that people with mental illnesses could be employed in low-level jobs. Studies and demonstration projects have shown, however, that these individuals can sustain employment in high-level positions with the proper training and support.

There may be exciting new treatments for psychiatric disorders in the coming years due to advances in genetic testing. However, the increased cost of drug development and the current regulatory climate has had a chilling effect on taking risks and pursuing novel strategies.

The current climate of managed care has dramatically changed how psychiatrists deal with the issue of suicide. What should clinicians know, both about the safety and welfare of their patients and to protect themselves legally, when dealing with managed care companies in cases of potential suicidality?