FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MoodDoctor™?

MoodDoctor™ is a mental health assessment tool that utilizes accepted medical standards to assist patients in communicating with their providers and to assist licensed providers in accurately diagnosing mental health disorders

How can MoodDoctor™ help me?

One of the challenges in healthcare is finding time and tools for clear, effective communication. MoodDoctor™ facilitates communication by asking the correct questions—questions that have been studied and validated—and presenting your answers to your provider in a clear, concise, organize manner. You can do your MoodDoctor™ assessment in advance of your visit, making your time with your provider as efficient as possible.

When should anxiety or depression be treated with medication?

Not all symptoms of anxiety or depression should be treated with medication. Treatment is based on severity of symptoms, duration of symptoms and impact on daily living. If symptoms adversely impact your life and persist beyond two weeks, medication may be appropriate. Other treatment, such as wellness therapy, stress reduction and counseling are often appropriate alternatives to medication.

Does stress cause anxiety or depression?

Stress can aggravate anxiety and/or depression. Situational stressors, grief, chronic pain, feeling overwhelmed, and other situations can cause symptoms of anxiety and depression. Symptoms may improve with stress reduction, utilization of coping skills or other behavior modifications. Severe or sustained stress can contribute to anxiety or depression requiring medical treatment.

How is screening for depression or anxiety different from diagnosing it?

A diagnosis of anxiety or depression is made by a qualified medical provider using specific published criteria, usually from the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). Screening questions ask about symptoms, including symptom severity and duration. The Patient Health Questionnaire—9 (PHQ9) and General Anxiety Disorder—7 (GAD7) are validated tools used by professionals to identify patients at risk for depression and anxiety. If a screening tool suggests the need for further evaluation, a qualified medical provider should request additional information before making a diagnosis. The correct diagnosis is critical because the diagnosis directs further evaluation and care. The DSM-5, PHQ9 and GAD7 are all incorporated into MoodDoctor to assist providers.

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine is a visit with a licensed provider via technology such as a computer or phone. Many mental health and medical issues can be managed as well via technology as in person. Some insurers cover telemedicine visits but most are still private pay. (this is changing with the Corona panndemic).  It is important to choose a telemedicine provider who is qualified and with whom you feel.

Is Online Treament the same as Telemedicine?

No. Online Treatment may include prescribed treatment without direct interaction between the patient and a licensed provider.

If I have a Telemedicine visit, will I get a prescription?

If your licensed provider feels a prescription is appropriate for your specific situation, they will provide a prescription. Usually the prescription can be sent directly to your pharmacy.

Is my medication included in the cost of my Telemedicine visit?

Generally, no. Just as with a regular office visit, your prescription is a separate cost at the pharmacy.

What makes MoodDoctor™ unique or better?

MoodDoctor™ uses validated tools and organizes information, making it easy for your licensed provider to review your answers against DSM-5 guidelines and establish a correct and more specific diagnosis and initiate appropriate care. It provides valuable information that is often overlooked in a time-sensitive visit. (or something about identifying risk and recognizing a need for psych referrals/counseling.)

What is a mood disorder?

Mood disorder is a spectrum of conditions ranging from mild, unstable ot rapid cycling mood changes to Bipolar Mania. Assessing mood is an important part of any new depression evaluation. Up to 25% of depression patients could have a mood disorder and are treated much differently than  tose with simple MDD depression.   MoodDoctor helps your licensed provider come to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan.

Are there different types of anxiety?

Anxiety is a broad term, including anxious feelings, dread, or excessive worry. Or it may exhibit multiple symptoms and have severity and function that indicate an actual disorder. Common  anxiety disorders include: Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Each disorder has its own diagnostic criteria and recommended management.