When Clients Have Immediate Access to Psychiatric Records

Psychology Today
Psychology Today
2M ago 97 views
The article discusses the implications of open notes in psychiatric care, highlighting both benefits and risks for clients and clinicians. While many clients appreciate the transparency, concerns arise regarding potential distress from reading their records. Studies indicate that open notes can empower clients but may also disrupt the therapeutic relationship. Clinicians are adapting their documentation practices to balance these effects, emphasizing the need for careful implementation of this practice.
When Clients Have Immediate Access to Psychiatric Records
A What happened
The article discusses the implications of open notes in psychiatric care, highlighting both benefits and risks for clients and clinicians. While many clients appreciate the transparency, concerns arise regarding potential distress from reading their records. Studies indicate that open notes can empower clients but may also disrupt the therapeutic relationship. Clinicians are adapting their documentation practices to balance these effects, emphasizing the need for careful implementation of this practice.
★

Key insights

  • 1

    Client Empowerment

    Open notes empower clients by providing access to their psychiatric records.

  • 2

    Therapeutic Relationship

    The practice may alter the dynamics between clinicians and clients.

  • 3

    Documentation Changes

    Clinicians are adjusting their note-taking practices to enhance client understanding.

Takeaways

Open notes present both opportunities and challenges in psychiatric care that require careful consideration.

Topics

Mental Health Healthcare Systems Wellness