What Is Goal-Directed Treatment Planning?
Tracking progress and avoiding 'therapeutic drift'
Clinical Expert: Barry Nurcombe, MD
Dr. Barry Nurcombe of the University of Queensland describes an approach he developed years ago that is unfortunately still not as widespread as it should be: goal directed treatment planning. In essence, it means that every intervention for psychiatric illness should have a desired outcome and a way to monitor progress and assess treatment efficacy. Otherwise, says Dr. Nurcombe, you get “treatment drift” that’s not good for anyone, particularly a young patient.
Related: Complete Guide to Getting Good Care
This article was last reviewed or updated on December 5, 2023.
