How do I schedule an appointment with Dr. Sheehan? Look under the CONTACT tab and you can either call or email for an initial evaluation. Existing patients can call or use the Patient Fusion Portal to schedule.
What do I do if I’m having an emergency? Definitely reach out to Dr. Sheehan by either calling 512-871-8455 and leaving a message, messaging through the Patient Fusion Portal or emailing sheehansecretary2018@gmail.com. All messages are checked continuously through the day during office hours, but on weekends and holidays less frequently. The bottom line is that if the emergency involves a serious reaction to a medication or feeling suicidal the first thing to do is to go directly to the nearest Emergency Room or psychiatric hospital.
What psychiatric hospital should I go to? There are numerous choices around Austin including Austin Lakes, Austin Oaks, Georgetown Behavioral Health, Rock Springs and Cross Creek. Seton Shoal Creek is another great option but they do not accept walk ins – one must be medically cleared first in an Emergency Room to be eligible for transfer to Seton Shoal Creek. Always call ahead when going to a psychiatric hospital to make sure they have a bed and accept your insurance. It is a big decision to go inpatient and calling ahead makes things go a lot smoother.
When should I schedule a follow up appointment? That depends on how you are doing and what medication changes are being made. There is no set schedule as to when one has to follow up, it is entirely dependent on how you are doing.
What is the best way to get in touch with Dr. Sheehan? The Patient Fusion Portal is definitely the best way to get me quickly during office hours. It also can save a lot of time dealing with “phone tag”.
Can I text Dr. Sheehan if I am having an emergency? Texting is an option. Myself and my assistant, Jenny, frequently use text messaging to quickly communicate with people about appointments and refills and can be a great way to easily get in touch. As with all of our modes of communication (phone, Patient Fusion portal, email) they are not checked as frequently after office hours. Always reach out to Dr. Sheehan when you are having an emergency but proceed to the nearest emergency room if the emergency involves a serious reaction to a medication or thoughts of harming oneself or others.
