Comprehensive help for emotional, behavioral and addiction issues
Linda Shannon-Hills
Oro Valley Hospital has expanded their services with a new program to help those suffering from mental health or substance abuse conditions called the Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) in Behavioral Health Services. Dr. Matthew Malone, psychiatrist and medical director of Oro Valley Hospital’s Behavioral Health Unit, heads the IOP and provides psychiatric evaluations and periodic assessments. He will speak at SaddleBrooke Ranch on Tuesday, Aug. 13, at 4:00 p.m. in the La Mesa and Montana Rooms at the La Hacienda Fitness Center.
Dr. Malone will talk about their new program called CHOICES which means “Choosing Healthy Options Inspires Change, Empowerment and Strength.” When you or a loved one needs help to cope with stress, grief or addictive behaviors, their caring staff are available to help give you CHOICES. They offer a warm and safe environment for those who may be struggling with mental health issues.
Their program is overseen by a psychiatrist and includes group therapy three hours a day, three days a week. Patients are typically enrolled for six to 12 weeks.
There are a number of clinical issues involved in treating seniors with new and lifelong mental illnesses. A loved one may develop one of these conditions as they age, or they may have received a diagnosis long ago and remained stable on the same psychiatric medication for decades. In the latter case, however, their treatment plan may need to be adjusted as the aging body processes these drugs differently, new conditions develop and other medications are added to the mix.
Furthermore, it can be especially challenging for doctors to distinguish the symptoms of new or worsening mental illness from medication interactions or conditions like dementia. This is especially true for primary care physicians and psychiatrists who have not received geriatric training.
Join the Wellness Roundup and come to this presentation by Dr. Malone on Tuesday, Aug. 13.