Dr. Vivek Prasad
Board Certified Psychiatrist Specializing in Individualized Telemedicine
Meet Dr. Prasad
Introduction & Professional Biography
I am an ABPN Board-Certified adult psychiatrist. In my training at Indiana University, I've learned about various therapies to help you look at ways your thoughts affect your feelings and behaviors. You can learn skills and habits that will benefit your life and help you achieve your goals. Attaining balance requires that one learns the necessary tools to cope with stress and to react appropriately to life's uncertainties.
As an experienced clinician, I treat difficult conditions such as sleep problems, anxiety, depression, OCD, ADD, ADHD, PTSD, phobias, relationship issues, and addiction. If medication is needed, we'll use it. If your goal is to be medication-free, we'll work together toward it, at a mutually agreed pace. Mental health happens when every area of one's life is in balance. mental health incorporates financial, physical, and spiritual health.
About Telepsychiatry
Telepsychiatry is a subset of telehealth that involves the delivery of psychiatric assessment and care through telecommunications technology, such as video conferencing. It allows patients to receive mental health services remotely, improving access to care, particularly for those in underserved or rural areas.
Telehealth, more broadly, encompasses a variety of healthcare services provided through digital communication tools, including not only telepsychiatry but also remote consultations, diagnostics, and treatment across various medical fields. Both telepsychiatry and telehealth leverage technology to enhance the accessibility, efficiency, and quality of healthcare services.
& Individualized Medicine
Pharmacogenomics is the study of how genes affect a person's response to medications. It's a relatively new field that combines pharmacology (the study of drugs) with genomics (the study of genes). By understanding how genes influence drug metabolism and efficacy, pharmacogenomics aims to tailor drug treatments to individual patients based on their genetic makeup.
Individualized medicine is a broader approach to healthcare that involves using a patient's specific genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors to develop personalized treatment plans. Pharmacogenomics is a key component of individualized medicine, as it helps to identify the most effective and safest medications for a particular patient.
How does it work?
Genetic testing: Patients undergo genetic testing to identify specific variations in their DNA that may affect drug response.
Drug selection: Based on the genetic information, healthcare providers can select medications that are more likely to be effective and have fewer side effects for that individual.
Dosage adjustment: Pharmacogenomics can also help determine the appropriate dosage of a medication, as genetic factors can influence how quickly a person metabolizes drugs.
Benefits of pharmacogenomics and individualized medicine:
Improved treatment outcomes: By tailoring treatments to individual patients, healthcare providers can increase the likelihood of positive outcomes and reduce the risk of adverse reactions.
Reduced healthcare costs: By avoiding ineffective or harmful treatments, pharmacogenomics can help to reduce healthcare costs.
Faster recovery: Personalized treatment plans can help patients recover more quickly from illnesses and injuries.
In essence, pharmacogenomics and individualized medicine are revolutionizing healthcare by providing a more precise and effective approach to treating patients.
Education
Indiana University School of Medicine (Indianapolis)
Residency, Psychiatry, 2005 - 2010
Indiana University School of Medicine
Residency, Peds/Psych/Child-Adolescent Psych, 2005 - 2008
SUNY Upstate Medical University
Class of 2005
Certifications
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology — Psychiatry
American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology — Adult Psychiatry
State Licenses
Dr. Prasad is licensed to treat patients in the following states:
Florida State Medical License
Michigan State Medical License
Wisconsin State Medical License
Missouri State Medical License
Arizona State Medical License
Indiana State Medical License
New York State Medical License
Minnesota State Medical License
Pennsylvania State Medical License
Common Questions About Telepsychiatry
What is telepsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry is a form of mental health treatment that uses telecommunication technology, such as video conferencing, to connect patients with psychiatrists. This allows for remote consultations, making mental health care more accessible, especially for those in rural or underserved areas. Read more about how an individualized approach to benefits psychiatry patients
How does telepsychiatry work?
Telepsychiatry sessions typically involve a video call between the patient and psychiatrist, using a secure platform that ensures confidentiality. The psychiatrist can assess the patient's symptoms, diagnose conditions, and prescribe medications or therapy.
Is telepsychiatry as effective as in-person therapy?
Studies have shown that telepsychiatry is equally effective as in-person therapy for many mental health conditions. It can provide a convenient and accessible option for patients who might otherwise have difficulty accessing care.
What conditions can be treated through telepsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry can be used to treat a wide range of mental health conditions, including:
Depression
Anxiety disorders
Bipolar disorder
Schizophrenia
Substance abuse disorders
Is telepsychiatry confidential?
Yes, telepsychiatry is highly confidential. The platforms used for these sessions are designed to protect patient privacy and comply with HIPAA regulations.
What are the benefits of telepsychiatry?
Increased accessibility: Telepsychiatry can make mental health care more accessible to people who live in rural or underserved areas.
Convenience: Patients can receive treatment from the comfort of their own homes, eliminating the need for travel.
Reduced stigma: Telepsychiatry can help reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health treatment.
Cost-effective: In some cases, telepsychiatry can be more cost-effective than traditional in-person therapy.
Are there any limitations to telepsychiatry?
While telepsychiatry offers many benefits, there may be some limitations. For example, it may not be suitable for patients who have difficulty using technology or who require immediate in-person care.
Is telepsychiatry covered by insurance?
Many insurance plans now cover telepsychiatry services. However, it's important to check with your insurance provider to determine your specific coverage.