Psychiatrists in Waterford, MI
![Photo of Jillian Price, MSN, PMHNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1c717466-1658-4059-9772-af2bfa5d6675/1/320x400.jpeg)
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
![Photo of John Mrachina, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62b77351-974b-4dca-a7d3-3bdaccd3900f/1/320x400.png)
John Mrachina
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP-C, FNP-C
Verified Verified
Waterford, MI 48327
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
At Healing Mental Health our mission is to provide high-quality mental health medication management to our community, city, county, and beyond. We envision a future where mental health is an important part of overall health, and mental care is an integral part of all health care.
![Photo of Hassan Almaat - Advanced Psychiatric Services, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42ec787c-8461-4d6a-9a92-52c1ff2e18e6/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
Welcome to Advanced Psychiatric Services where patient's care comes first. We believe the treatment in mental health should be a collaboration between the professional and the patient based on trust and honesty. We provide services for wide variety of mental health issues. We believe our patients time is equally valuable to ours, so we try hard to eliminate waiting, and use the time to discuss their issues, goals, and to provide the needed management, education, and support.
![Photo of Curtis Leipold, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/63be0599-b6c5-42fc-b59d-4d7bf2c72885/1/320x400.jpeg)
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
Curtis Leipold is a board certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse over 15 years of experience in healthcare. Curtis obtained his bachelor’s degree in nursing from Purdue University and is a recent graduate from Wayne State University where he obtained his master's degree in nursing specializing in psychiatric disorders including depression, anxiety, ADD/ADHD, bipolar, childhood behavioral issues, and panic disorders. Curtis treats patient between the ages of 10 and 75. Curtis has experience managing psychiatric medications for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors. Curtis uses a holistic approach to treat clients.
More Psychiatrists Nearby
![Photo of Maninderpal Dhillon, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df00aa7d-4f8e-4d6a-9c43-e1dd940f7390/6/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting new patients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management in regards to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD. More information at drmaninderpaldhillon.com
Accepting new patients for psychiatric evaluations and medication management in regards to depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, psychosis, ADHD. More information at drmaninderpaldhillon.com
![Photo of Alexis Lykins, APRN, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76495072-30a8-4095-8db2-b69311b28f7c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alexis Lykins
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, APRN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bloomfield, MI 48302
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management - Are you searching for a professional who is passionate about working collaboratively with you toward a treatment plan that is both evidence-based and helps accomplish your mental health goals? As a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner at Wellspring Therapeutic Partners who provides medication consultation and management, along with other mental health services, I enjoy treating the underlying causes of symptoms and concerns, and often implement nutritional, behavioral, and lifestyle modifications as part of my practice.
![Photo of Reginald W Banks - Peace of mind, LLC Wellness, MSN, PMHNP, BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aaaf0c67-d51b-40c7-bbff-02093ad8d8f8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Peace of mind, LLC Wellness
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, MSN, PMHNP, BC
Verified Verified
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
As a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I have expertise in medication management, psychiatry, and therapy. I use a holistic approach to mental well-being. It is my goal to help empower my client and dismantling mental health stigmas particularly within the African American community. I strive to create a space where you can feel safe, supported and hopeful about your growth journey. With a special interest in aiding men navigate life’s pressures and challenges. I treat both adolescents and adults, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued.
As a board certified psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner, I have expertise in medication management, psychiatry, and therapy. I use a holistic approach to mental well-being. It is my goal to help empower my client and dismantling mental health stigmas particularly within the African American community. I strive to create a space where you can feel safe, supported and hopeful about your growth journey. With a special interest in aiding men navigate life’s pressures and challenges. I treat both adolescents and adults, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and valued.
![Photo of Dan Dean, PMHNP-B, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4861a56b-326e-4d59-8c10-34a72a98a38a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dan Dean is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2007. Dan believes mental health requires a holistic approach, taking into consideration mind, body, spirit, and cultural preferences. Dan identifies individual goals and values, promotes growth, and helps improve quality of life. Outside of work, Dan enjoys animals, nature, walking, kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
Dan Dean is a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner in Michigan who has been practicing since 2007. Dan believes mental health requires a holistic approach, taking into consideration mind, body, spirit, and cultural preferences. Dan identifies individual goals and values, promotes growth, and helps improve quality of life. Outside of work, Dan enjoys animals, nature, walking, kayaking, traveling, and spending time with family and friends.
![Photo of Nina Ross - Artemis Reproductive Psychiatry, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cb0fcaa9-39fd-4ac8-aa28-5864997290dd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Artemis Reproductive Psychiatry
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48301 (Online Only)
Pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can be times of significant vulnerability to mental health issues. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I offer compassionate and holistic support to women during these times through medication management and therapy.
Pregnancy, postpartum, and menopause can be times of significant vulnerability to mental health issues. As a reproductive psychiatrist, I offer compassionate and holistic support to women during these times through medication management and therapy.
![Photo of Nazia S Adil - Alliance Behavioral Health Specialists, PLLC, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d851985-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alliance Behavioral Health Specialists, PLLC
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
West Bloomfield, MI 48323
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
We provide medication management and therapy to people who are struggling with depression, anxiety , bipolar disorder etc. If you are struggling with insomnia, stress , feeling overwhelmed, there is help. Medical issues affect mental health directly and indirectly. Our experienced clinicians are able to provide comprehensive treatment. We also started treating patients with TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation), which is proven to be the most advanced treatment for depression.
![Photo of Jeremy M. Baruch, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0dc057c9-d903-4f8d-8fbb-c553d69a604a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am committed to meeting you with an open, curious mind, and compassionate heart as we work together on your challenges and build toward your goals. My passion is to work with people who are going through a life transition, adjusting to school, navigating relationships and careers, and trying to make sense of their lives to build a better future. I offer individual therapy and the option of prescribing medications to individuals who prefer not to split their mental health treatment between a prescriber and a therapist. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey.
I am committed to meeting you with an open, curious mind, and compassionate heart as we work together on your challenges and build toward your goals. My passion is to work with people who are going through a life transition, adjusting to school, navigating relationships and careers, and trying to make sense of their lives to build a better future. I offer individual therapy and the option of prescribing medications to individuals who prefer not to split their mental health treatment between a prescriber and a therapist. I deeply value the opportunity to collaborate with you on your journey.
![Photo of Raji George, PMHNP, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c9b25965-3514-46ca-9cde-046b1db321cd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
Raji George is a Board Certified Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner. She hold a Doctorate in Nursing Practice from Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan and is and is board certified through American Nurses Credentialing Center as a Family Nurse Practitioner as well as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner (PMHNP). She originally obtained her Bachelor of science degree in Nursing(BSN) from India. She has the training and experience in diagnosing and, treating patients across the life span for all primary care and mental health conditions(anxiety, depression, PTSD/ trauma, ADHD, Bipolar disorder).
![Photo of Iyantta S. Howell, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ab3d147-9113-48bd-8e29-33ec4608b510/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Iyantta S. Howell is a double board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. She obtained her bachelor's degree from The University of Michigan and obtained her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training at The University of Pennsylvania's Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Howell has experience working in a variety of clinical environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings, prisons, residential treatment facilities, and partial hospital programs.
Dr. Iyantta S. Howell is a double board-certified Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatrist in Michigan who has been practicing since 2008. She obtained her bachelor's degree from The University of Michigan and obtained her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine. She went on to complete her Child & Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship training at The University of Pennsylvania's Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. Dr. Howell has experience working in a variety of clinical environments, including inpatient and outpatient settings, prisons, residential treatment facilities, and partial hospital programs.
Sterling Institute Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral
Psychiatrist, MD, PhD
Verified Verified
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
Sterling Institute welcomes you to our customer service oriented practice where your health, comfort and well-being are always a priority.
![Photo of Kevin Sethi - Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51114f4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kevin Sethi- Progressive Wellness Clinic
Psychiatrist, MD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Bloomfield, MI 48322
Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
Dr. Sethi completed his specialized psychiatric residency at the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor, MI. As an interventionist, he has a sub-specialized experience in the latest evidence-based treatment modalities including Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Ketamine. He focuses in collaborative work with patients and providing ample time to make sure everything is clear and transparent. His goal is to help improve the quality of life for all his patients with a focus on preventive measures as well.
![Photo of Alyssa Bottrell - Bloom Psychiatry, PLLC, MD, PhD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a18126db-ba0c-43ea-a338-b8ddfdcae695/1/320x400.jpeg)
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
Bloom Psychiatry provides high-quality, individualized psychiatric treatment to adolescents and adults using a holistic treatment approach. New patients in the state of Michigan are now being accepted for telehealth, hybrid, or in-person appointments. Services include psychotherapy and/or medication management, as indicated by individual need.
![Photo of Dr. Jennifer Giordano, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4ac364e-eaf3-4dc7-9c4b-efe0afe3f194/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you feel scared and alone being stuck on your psychiatric medication? And when you tried to discontinue, you experienced difficult withdrawal symptoms? Reducing or stopping psychiatric medications without the right plan can leave you stuck on a medication merry-go-round for years. I understand the pain and confusion you are experiencing. It doesn’t have to be this way.
Do you feel scared and alone being stuck on your psychiatric medication? And when you tried to discontinue, you experienced difficult withdrawal symptoms? Reducing or stopping psychiatric medications without the right plan can leave you stuck on a medication merry-go-round for years. I understand the pain and confusion you are experiencing. It doesn’t have to be this way.
![Photo of Bruce L Roth, DO, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ddac046-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
Dr. Roth has over 25 years of experience as a board certified adult and child psychiatrist. He is also an adult psychoanalyst affiliated with the Michigan Psychoanalytic Institute and a Qualified Medical Evaluator in psychiatry for injured workers in the State of California. At CPS we have psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, psychiatric nurse practitioner professionals providing the highest quality of mental health care to our clients. At CPS we offer a range of treatment from symptom focused counseling and medications to deeper psychoanalytic therapy and psychoanalysis.
![Photo of Dr. Michelle L Collins - New Oakland Family Centers, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6cb8140e-a1ae-48de-889d-04f2e4d9271d/1/320x400.jpeg)
New Oakland Family Centers
Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, DNP, PMHNPBC, FNP-BC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Farmington Hills, MI 48334
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with 18 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
Hi, my name is Michelle Collins. I hold a doctoral degree in nursing practice. In addition, I am a dual ANCC board certified psychiatric mental health (PMHNP-BC) and family nurse practitioner (FNP-BC) with 18 years of broad advanced practice experience. My training and years of clinical practice has allowed me to cultivate competent and compassionate care for clients across the lifespan. Together, we will work to establish a respectful client-provider relationship free from bias, judgement, and stigma. My goal is ultimately to help each client become or return to the best version of themselves.
![Photo of Stephen Colon M D, MD, Psychiatrist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/20ab10b2-ef17-483b-aadb-80cc6bbd67ab/3/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, I'm Dr. Colon. I'm a certified Integrative Psychiatrist. I provide holistic, highly personalized treatment that combines the best of Modern Medicine and Alternative/Complementary Medicine. I listen closely & get to know your goals and preferences. My approach is gentle, compassionate, & trauma-informed. Available treatments include psychotherapy, coaching, education, medication, natural supplements, nutrition, meditation, mind-body techniques, lifestyle medicine, exercise & more. I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD (Autism Spectrum/Asperger's). Let's work together to achieve your goals!
Hi, I'm Dr. Colon. I'm a certified Integrative Psychiatrist. I provide holistic, highly personalized treatment that combines the best of Modern Medicine and Alternative/Complementary Medicine. I listen closely & get to know your goals and preferences. My approach is gentle, compassionate, & trauma-informed. Available treatments include psychotherapy, coaching, education, medication, natural supplements, nutrition, meditation, mind-body techniques, lifestyle medicine, exercise & more. I also specialize in working with neurodiverse adults including ADHD & ASD (Autism Spectrum/Asperger's). Let's work together to achieve your goals!
See more therapy options for Waterford
How does your Psychiatrist compare?
Number of Psychiatrists in Waterford, MI
< 10
Psychiatrists in Waterford, MI who prioritize treating:
100% | Depression |
100% | Anxiety |
100% | Medication Management |
75% | ADHD |
75% | Obsessive-Compulsive (OCD) |
75% | Bipolar Disorder |
75% | Stress |
Top 3 insurances accepted
100% | Aetna |
100% | BlueCross and BlueShield |
100% | Cigna and Evernorth |
How Psychiatrists in Waterford, MI see their clients
75% | In Person and Online | |
25% | Online Only |
Gender breakdown
66% | Male | |
34% | Female |
FAQs - About Psychiatrists and Psychiatric Nurses
How can I find a psychiatrist in Waterford?
The Psychology Today Directory enables you to search specifically for psychiatrists, using the drop down provider menu in the navigation bar, by city or zip code, or by the name of the psychiatrist. Search results provide detailed profiles of professionals, including their treatment approach and areas of expertise. In addition, listings provide important information about each psychiatrist’s credentials, fees, payment options, and insurance affiliations. Directory users can select psychiatrists who meet an array of personally-desired criteria, such as familiarity with a specific community or condition.
What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a psychologist?
Psychiatrists are medical specialists who focus on understanding, diagnosing, and treating diseases of the brain and disorders of the mind and behavior. As physicians, psychiatrists are trained to recognize the often-subtle biological causes of mental disorders and to monitor the effects of mental disturbances on physical conditions, such as heart disease. Psychologists are especially attuned to the influence of early experience on development and behavior, emotional and cognitive processes, the nature of personality, and social functioning. They are also trained to deploy an array of psychological tests—IQ tests, personality tests, behavioral assessments—to gauge a person’s functioning.
What is a psychiatric nurse practitioner?
A psychiatric nurse practitioner, also known as a mental health nurse practitioner, is a registered nurse who completes advanced training in psychiatric care, earning either a master’s or doctoral degree in psychiatric nursing, and in the U.S., passes a national certification exam. Like psychiatrists, psychiatric nurse practitioners are trained to assess, diagnose, and treat mental health conditions. In some locales, psychiatric nurse practitioners can offer the full range of psychiatric care, including prescribing and managing medication. In other places, they must work in collaboration with a physician.
Is everyone in the Psychology Today Therapy Directory a licensed psychiatrist?
The Psychology Today directory lists providers who offer legitimate mental health services to the public, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, and counselors. All psychiatrists listed in the directory have a valid license issued by the state(s) in which they practice and are certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. Providers whose license or primary credential has been verified by Psychology Today are signified by a “Verified” symbol. Some individuals or organizations provide services for which their state or country does not offer licenses, such as pastoral counseling. They may be selectively included without the “Verified” seal.
Can a psychiatrist prescribe medication?
Psychiatrists are licensed medical doctors who are trained to recognize the many ways body processes affect the functioning of the brain and mind. As physicians, they can prescribe medication. Patients who are prescribed medications will typically need to continue to see a psychiatrist so that the effects of the medication can be monitored. For many psychiatric conditions, including common disorders such as anxiety and depression, the preferred treatment is combination therapy—medication accompanied by psychotherapy.
Do psychiatrists offer therapy?
Psychiatrists are generally trained in a number of treatment modalities, including psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, and, increasingly, somatic therapies. Typically, psychiatrists make a diagnosis and determine a course of treatment based on chemical or biological factors, using lab tests, brain scans and physical and psychological evaluations. While psychotherapy may be used in the first session to aid in diagnosis, it is not typically utilized in subsequent visits. In fact, after the introductory session, most sessions with a psychiatrist may only be 15-20 minutes in length and are largely focused on medication management. Many psychiatrists who do not offer psychotherapy work collaboratively with psychologists and other mental health clinicians and can refer clients seeking talk therapy to those providers.
How do I know if I need a psychiatrist or a therapist?
It is not always easy to know which type of mental health practitioner to choose. Many people are unaware of the root of their mental or behavioral problem. One way many people learn which type of care is best for them is by seeing their primary care provider first. Depending on the nature and severity of the symptoms, the physician may review their medical history or perform medical tests to determine whether biological factors are involved before making a referral. It is not necessary for a person to know precisely what type of care they need in order to seek help. Many psychiatrists and psychologists refer clients to each other depending on client needs.
Do I need a referral to see a psychiatrist?
A referral to a psychiatrist is often not required. However, seeing your primary care physician first can be helpful and actually prove to be a shortcut to getting what you need. Your PCP may have a clear idea whether psychiatric help is needed and/or which kind of mental health care would be most beneficial and refer you to the right type of practitioner. For that reason alone, some psychiatrists require a referral. Further, many insurance plans require a referral from a PCP if they cover all of part of the cost of seeing a specialist; if, however, you are paying out of pocket, you may not need a referral. In any case, a referral may speed the process of securing an appointment with a psychiatrist, especially in areas where there is a shortage of mental health specialists and new patients face long waits for appointments.