Psychiatric Practice Patient Flow Protocol

1. Pre-Appointment Procedures

1.1 Initial Contact

• Screen calls for urgency/emergency status
• Collect basic demographic information
• Verify insurance coverage
• Schedule intake appointment

1.2 Pre-Visit Documentation

• Send intake forms electronically
• PHQ-9, GAD-7, and other relevant screening tools
• Medical history questionnaire
• Current medication list
• Informed consent forms

2. Check-In Process

2.1 Front Desk Procedures

• Verify patient identity
• Collect/update insurance information
• Process copayment
• Review completed forms
• Update electronic health record (EHR)

2.2 Initial Assessment

• Vital signs by medical assistant
• Brief safety screening
• Substance use screening
• Update medication list

3. Clinical Flow

3.1 New Patient Visits

• 60-minute evaluation slot
• Complete psychiatric history
• Mental status examination
• Risk assessment
• Preliminary diagnosis
• Treatment planning

3.2 Follow-up Visits

• 20-30 minute slots
• Medication management
• Progress assessment
• Treatment adjustment

4. Crisis Management

4.1 Emergency Protocols

• Immediate risk assessment
• Crisis intervention procedures
• Emergency contact notification
• Hospitalization coordination if needed

5. Check-Out Process

5.1 Documentation Completion

• Update treatment plan
• Schedule follow-up appointment
• Process prescriptions
• Provide patient instructions

5.2 Administrative Tasks

• Process billing
• Schedule referrals if needed
• Coordinate with other providers

6. Quality Assurance

6.1 Regular Review

• Monthly flow efficiency assessment
• Patient satisfaction surveys
• Wait time monitoring
• Staff feedback collection