Information for provider
Dear colleague
Thank you for referring your patient for TMS assessment. TMS or Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation is a validated alternative treatment approach for the treatment of resistant depression, using magnetic pulses to stimulate the area of the brain associated with depression.
TMS is not currently paid for by medical aid, although we are working on it!
It is R 30 000 for 30 sessions. The sessions take 20- 40 minutes. Patients do not need anaesthetics and can drive afterwards. Sessions occur daily, on most weekdays.
The Process:
![icon1 icon1](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon1-40x40.png)
Fill in referral form. ReWire will contact patient and set up assessment session
![icon2 icon2](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon2-40x40.png)
Assessment session: normal medical aid rates apply
![icon3 icon3](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon3-40x40.png)
Session 0: calibrating (Can take up to 1 hour)
![icon4 icon4](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon4-40x40.png)
Session 1-10
(Referring clinician please to review at +/_ 2 weeks of initiating treatment. There is a small risk of increased suicidality or manic switch: just like when we start anti depressants)
![icon5 icon5](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon5-40x40.png)
Session 10-21
![icon6 icon6](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon6-40x40.png)
Efficacy assessment
![icon7 icon7](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon7-40x40.png)
Session 21-30
![icon8 icon8](https://www.rewire.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/icon8-40x40.png)
Feedback to referring doctor
I am very aware that there could be transference if I am seeing a patient daily. I am sensitive to the ethics of superseding, and have made a policy decision not to see referred TMS patients in my private practice for a year after referral.
NB: Medication changes can affect seizure thresholds. If possible, please do not make changes during the TMS period. If not possible, please let me know, so that I can make adjustments drm@rewire.co.za
Warmly
Marcelle