4 Jul 2016

Psychiatrist reprimanded for treating girlfriend

5:40 pm on 4 July 2016

A psychiatrist who prescribed an anti-depressant for his girlfriend may face a competency review.

Health and Disability Commissioner Anthony Hill said the man prescribed citalopram to his partner from 2010 to 2011 but did not record the dosage or frequency, or document any formal consultations with her.

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She complained after they broke up, saying he wasn't providing any further support and she had no GP.

The psychiatrist, who has not been named, said he prescribed the drug reluctantly when she refused to see anyone else.

Mr Hill said it was unwise for a doctor to provide medical care for someone they were in a relationship with.

Doctors were advised to avoid prescribing psychotropic drugs to themselves or those close to them, but if they did, details must be recorded, Mr Hill said.

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