Perinatal Psychiatric Practitioner Consultation Program Delivers Rapid Response to OB/GYN Practitioners

Abstract

(Birth. 2023;50(4):764–772. doi: 10.1111/birt.12722) The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) strongly suggests that OB/GYN practitioners should be capable of identifying, managing, and appropriately referring patients with perinatal psychiatric conditions. To effectively manage the pregnant or postpartum patient with psychiatric illness, knowledge of psychiatric medications, and their safe administration is critical, especially given the significant morbidity and mortality associated with perinatal psychiatric disorders in the United States. Geographic limitations and practitioner shortages may impact access to specialized psychiatric services. This descriptive quality improvement study evaluated a statewide perinatal psychiatric consultation service, The Periscope Project (TPP), in Wisconsin for OB/GYN practitioners by analyzing the volume, responsivity, content, and outcomes of clinical inquiries, and OB/GYN professional satisfaction.