When a second opinion helps
A second opinion is reasonable when the diagnosis is uncertain, when symptoms have not improved despite treatment, when side effects are troublesome, when several medicines are being combined, or when a long-term treatment decision is being made.
It can also help before pregnancy, before starting a medicine with significant risks, when there is disagreement between clinicians, or when a person simply wants to understand the reasoning behind a plan.
Related: Psychiatry → · Dr. Ruja Shrestha profile → · All conditions →
What to bring
Bring a list of current and previous medicines with doses and dates, reports of previous trials and side effects, blood tests, imaging, discharge summaries and any psychological assessments. A written timeline of symptoms and a list of questions are useful.
If the person cannot provide a reliable history, a family member or caregiver may attend with consent. Records can be reviewed before the consultation when sent in advance.
- Current and previous medication list
- Dates, doses and duration of each trial
- Blood tests, imaging and discharge summaries
- Symptom timeline and previous diagnoses
- Specific questions you want answered
How the second opinion works
The consultation includes a full clinical interview, records review and, when needed, a mental state examination. The output is a clear formulation, an opinion on the diagnosis and options for treatment.
A second opinion does not automatically mean changing treatment. Dr. Shrestha explains where she agrees, where she sees alternatives and what she would recommend, and can share a summary with the treating clinician if the person wishes.
Access and booking
Appointments are at Mind Wellness Center, Durbar Marg area, Kathmandu. Call +977-9747736624 or use /book-appointment. Telepsychiatry is available for appropriate follow-up and for patients who cannot attend in person. This is not an emergency service.