Radio Atlantic
Scripts | 3. A Special Drug
Aug 22, 2024
Explore the transformative power of ketamine as a treatment for depression, uncovering its journey from anesthetic to mental health therapy. Hear personal stories of hope from patients navigating the new landscape of telehealth. Discover the implications of recent changes in prescription practices and the emotional turmoil faced by both patients and doctors. Delve into the ongoing challenges of accessibility in mental health care and the quest for reform amidst the backdrop of a shifting healthcare environment.
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Quick takeaways
- The shift to remote prescribing of controlled substances during the pandemic significantly increased patient access to treatments like ketamine for mental health.
- Doctors' experiences with ketamine therapy have transformed skepticism into advocacy, showcasing its effectiveness as a rapid treatment for severe depression.
Deep dives
The Shift in Medication Accessibility
The decision by the DEA in March 2020 to permit doctors to prescribe controlled substances without requiring in-person visits fundamentally changed how patients access medications like ketamine. This new flexibility allowed patients to receive treatments that they might not have been able to obtain otherwise, particularly during a time when in-person appointments posed health risks due to the pandemic. As a result, telehealth visits surged, with a tenfold increase reported, leading to a notable rise in psychiatric medication usage among Americans. This shift not only expanded access but also gave patients greater autonomy in managing their mental health conditions.
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