CPAN Frequently asked questions

 

What is the CPAN?

CPAN, or the Child Psychiatry Access Network, is a free and trusted mental health resource for pediatric clinicians in Texas. CPAN offers provider-to-provider consultations related to specific patients, answers to general questions, care coordination, and training to pediatric clinicians to assist with identifying and treating mental health issues in patients up to age 22.

What type of help does CPAN offer?

CPAN services include real-time psychiatric consultation with a child and adolescent psychiatrist, assistance with safety planning, identifying mental health resources, and continuing education for primary care providers.

Can I refer a child/patient to CPAN for services?

No. CPAN is a provider-to-provider service only and does not provide mental health services directly     to patients, with the exception of an approved, one-time only patient-psychiatrist direct consultation.

If there is a crisis in the office, may I call you?

Although CPAN is not a crisis line, we can assist you in determining if your situation is a crisis. We can provide you with local crisis hotlines and information on inpatient mental health hospitals.

Can clinic staff call on behalf of a primary care provider (PCP) to schedule a consultation or request resource assistance?

Yes. However, CPAN will ask the caller for the provider’s name.

How can I request to speak with a child and adolescent psychiatrist?

Call the CPAN number and share a summary of the consultation need and your contact information.

How long does it take to get a call back from a psychiatrist?

Typically, five to ten minutes, although our psychiatrists have up to 30 minutes to return your call. 

May I request a specific call-back time by the psychiatrist?

Absolutely! Our psychiatrists are available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Do CPAN psychiatrists prescribe medication?

No. Our child psychiatrists will discuss treatment and medication options, but do not prescribe medication for patients.

How often may I call for consultation?

You may call as many times as needed. There is no limit to the call volume or frequency.

May I give your number to someone to call you?

Yes! Please share CPAN information with other PCPs, but do not provide our number to patients/family.

How much information do you need from me when I call?

A few basic pieces of information will be required: the reason for your call, the patient’s name or initials and date of birth, medical record number, race, ethnicity, zip code, and insurance information (if resources are needed). 

How much does CPAN cost (me, my office, the patient, the doctor) to use?

Nothing! CPAN is a no-cost service that is fully funded by the State of Texas.

Where are you located?

Our hub, which serves Northeast Texas, is based at The University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center in Tyler, Texas.  

What are CPAN’s business hours?

Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., excluding institutional holidays.

Can I leave a message outside of business hours?

If your need is outside of business hours, leave a message on our secure voice mail. Your call will be returned promptly the next business day.

 How do I contact CPAN?

Call 888-901-CPAN (2726), choose option 1, then option 3. If you have general CPAN questions, would like to enroll, or schedule a virtual or in-person presentation, you can also email us at CPANinfo@uthct.edu.