Presbyterian | Spring 2022 | Your Story

8 Kids taking antipsychotics Antipsychotic medications are being used more and more for children and adolescents between the ages of five and 17. These medications are shown to be useful in helping them manage serious mental health conditions. They can also have unsafe side effects. If your child, or a child in your care, was prescribed an antipsychotic medication like risperidone, aripiprazole, olanzapine, paliperidone, or quetiapine, it’s important to work with their provider to protect the child’s health. Follow the directions for taking medications Antipsychotic medication is prescribed to address specific behaviors and disorders. Your child’s provider will ask you about how your child’s medication is affecting their behavior and emotions. If your child does not take the medication as prescribed, your provider will not know if the medication is working. Complete all ordered lab work Your child is likely to gain weight while taking antipsychotic medication. They can also develop high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and high cholesterol. Your child’s provider will order lab work at least once a year to check your child’s health. They will assess whether the side effects are less harmful than the disorder being treated. This testing can help keep your child safe. Attend therapy sessions Antipsychotic medications may help your child quickly manage their symptoms. Therapy sessions help your child learn to recognize and control mood and behavioral issues. Without therapy, your child may rely on antipsychotic medication, which can lead to a higher risk of health complications. Ask questions Make sure to ask your child’s provider questions about their treatment. Here are a few good questions to ask: ● Why is the medication needed? ● What are the side effects? ● How often will your child need lab work? ● How can therapy help your child not rely on medication? ● What is the plan for weaning your child off the medication? ● Why might your child need to stay on the medication longer? Be sure to listen to the answers to these questions. This will help you understand your child’s needs, treatment, and diagnosis. Your child’s treatment depends on the relationship between you and your child’s provider and therapist. Together, you can help your child stay safe and healthy. Source: Magellan Health Presbyterian Health Plan ombudsman program The ombudsman program works with you to help you learn how your insurance works. The ombudsman will also help you get the covered services you need. The ombudsman can help you: ● Solve issues or problems (before they enter the grievance or appeal process) ● Learn how to get the services you need ● Get through and learn the Presbyterian Health Plan system ● Get referrals and resources (aid) ● Get you a referral to a care coordinator ● Teach you about your rights and responsibilities under Centennial Care What is the role of the ombudsman? The Presbyterian Centennial Care ombudsman works with you to help with issues through support and research. How can the ombudsman help me? The ombudsman works for you on issues and is not part of the grievance (complaint) system or appeals process. The ombudsman works with you to guide you through Presbyterian Health Plan processes. The ombudsman works with your care team to be your voice — to talk about your needs. What does an ombudsman not do? The ombudsman does not take the place of the appeals or grievances processes. The ombudsman will not make final decisions about your care. To contact the Centennial Care ombudsman: Phone: (505) 923-5780 Fax: (505) 923-8159 Email: ombudsman@phs.org Presbyterian Health Plan 9521 San Mateo Blvd. NE Albuquerque, NM 87113