MEDICAL PSYCHOLOGY

The practice of medical psychology involves an awareness of and training in medical, psychological, and social factors that inform a broad spectrum of services including psychological diagnosis, treatment, consulting about the use of psychotropic medications, and prescribing of psychotropic medication within the scope of the practice of the profession.

For a more extensive definition of medical psychology, please read THIS Also, please see our coverage of medical psychology in WIKIPEDIA

Medical Psychologists are among the most well trained of all Specialties in Psychology. They are the premier specialty in psychology positioned to take hospital, primary care center, nursing and residential facility leadership and clinical practice, and in private practices that service these organizations and collaborate with general physicians and nurse practitioners.

Medical psychology encompasses more broad scientific education and demonstrated core competencies than psychopharmacologists. Medical Psychologists are additionally trained in interventions and differentiation between mental and substance abuse disorders and the psychological components of chronic physical disease and providing treatment for both.

Medical Psychologist can prescribe medications, diagnose, consult on psychopharmacology decisions. Additionally, Medical Psychologists can provide psychotherapy or comprehensive treatment plans.

Medical Psychologists (Board Certified) are uniquely suited and recognized by accrediting bodies for medical staff leadership positions in hospitals and healthcare facilities. These facilities are moving toward and are increasingly under pressure from accrediting and funding organizations to staff and program for Integrated Care or a broader and more scientifically supported staffing (multi-disciplinary and working in symmetrical team treatment) and delivery models. Increasingly, these facilities seek the Diplomate in Medical Psychology to establish and lead these efforts and to supervise them and related staff.