When should I consider referring a patient with Illness Anxiety Disorder to a mental health specialist?

Consider referring a patient with Illness Anxiety Disorder to a mental health specialist if:

• They have persistent, significant anxiety about having or acquiring a serious illness that is not alleviated by medical reassurance.
• There is a presence of complex psychiatric symptoms or comorbidities that complicate management in primary care.
• They have not responded adequately to initial interventions such as psychological therapies or medication offered in primary care after at least two treatment attempts.
• There is significant functional impairment affecting daily activities, work, or education.
• There is diagnostic uncertainty or atypical symptom presentation requiring specialist assessment.

Referral should be considered to specialist mental health services for comprehensive assessment, formulation, and management, including access to cognitive behavioural therapy or other psychological treatments tailored to their needs.