EPI Fraser North

• Site: Royal Columbian Hospital
• Program Website: http://www.psychosissucks.ca/epi/aboutepi.cfm
• An EPI program is aimed at early detection and management of psychosis, in order to reduce duration of untreated illness and improve long-term prognosis. The program bridges youth and adult mental health services, and hospital and community settings. Typical criteria for program admission include age range between 13 and 30, first psychotic episode, suspected psychosis, family history of psychotic disorder, distress and or functional impairment.
• Psychiatrists and clinicians see patients at Royal Columbian Hospital and community mental health centres (predominantly Tricities and New Westminster) The EPI team provides individual patients with psychiatric care and case management for 2 years, consisting of pharmacotherapy, metabolic monitoring, psychotherapy (including CBT for psychosis), group therapy, family therapy, education, support, brokerage with services such as vocational rehabilitation and addictions management, and discharge and transitional planning.
• The team meets weekly to discuss administrative matters and review all new referrals. Clinical case discussions leverage the knowledge and experience of team members, and is an excellent method to learn several CanMEDS roles.
• Formal rounds and literature review occur periodically throughout the year.
• Elective rotations may be from 2 to 12 months in duration and require a minimum of 2 full days and attendance at weekly team rounds.
• Supervisor: Dr. Mansoor Anwar