Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry

Understanding Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry (Psychosomatic Medicine)

Evolution of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry

Recent recognition by academic medical societies such as the Academy of Psychosomatic Medicine and The Association of Medicine and Psychiatry, sanctioned by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology and American Board of Medical Specialties, has led to the formal acknowledgment of “Psychosomatic Medicine” or Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry as a subspecialty field within psychiatry, now commonly referred to as consultation-liaison psychiatry.

Purpose and Significance

Consultation-liaison psychiatry emerged due to mounting scientific evidence highlighting the prevalence of psychiatric disorders among individuals with various medical, surgical, obstetrical, and neurological conditions. This subspecialty primarily addresses the mental health needs of patients facing complex and chronic medical issues, emphasizing the crucial role of managing psychiatric disorders in their overall care. Patients with chronic illnesses such as chronic pain, cancer and heart disease benefit from treatment with a psychiatrist with expertise in consultation-liaison psychiatry.

Expertise of Consultation-Liaison Psychiatrists

Specialized in diagnosing and treating psychiatric disorders in complex medically ill patients, consultation-liaison psychiatrists possess distinct expertise catering to this unique patient population.

Certification and Dr. Oddy’s Expertise

The American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology initiated the first subspecialty certification examination in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry in 2005, marking a significant milestone in the development of this subspecialty. Dr. Oddy obtained certification in Consultation-Liaison Psychiatry during this pivotal period, solidifying his expertise in this specialized field.