Dr. Pages specializes in treating Major Depressive Disorder using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS). It’s a groundbreaking technology for people who have tried treating their depression with antidepressant medication and not had success. Dr. Pages has advanced training from Harvard and is the area’s most experienced provider of Neurostar TMS.
How is TMS different from traditional methods of treating depression, like antidepressants and therapy?
TMS is different because it does not use medication. It very specifically targets an area of the brain believed to be responsible for symptoms of depression. Magnetic pulses activate these areas of the brain to bring it to a more normal state and make the person less depressed. TMS is more effective than medications for treatment-resistant patients, and it may be me more effective than medication more generally.
Are there any health risks associated with TMS?
No, there are no health risks involved, which is another difference from medications. Some people will have discomfort at the contact point with the scalp. There is a small risk of seizure, which is estimated at 1 in 30,000 treatments. TMS has been under investigation and use for more than 30 years. It is the safest psychiatric treatment available.
TMS of South Tampa has now been using TMS for five years. What kind of impact has TMS had on your patients?
It’s had a terrific impact on patients who are tired of medications causing side effects and not helping. The results from my practice show 74 percent of patients feel better after TMS, and 44 percent of patients have a complete resolution of their depression. The results have been truly amazing. TMS has also had a great impact on myself and my staff, helping us feel better about the service we provide.
TMS is now covered by a wide variety of insurance plans. Why is that important for patients?
Patients want proven medical treatments to be covered by insurance. TMS is now an affordable option for many more people. At TMS of South Tampa, we accept Cigna, United, Aetna, Medicare, Baycare, Woods & Associates and TriCare (with single case agreement).
Who is a good candidate for TMS?
Anyone with major depression is a good candidate for TMS. For insurance to cover the treatment, patients will have had to have tried and failed to treat their depression with traditional medications and therapy. This year, I have also added TMS treatments for anxiety, PTSD, tinnitus and migraines to my practice.
Q&A with Dr. Pages
Favorite way to spend a weekend? With my husband, Ryne, in our favorite city — New York City
Favorite local cultural spot? I’m on the board of the Tampa Museum of Art. A shout-out to Michael Tomor for turning our museum into a real class act!
Favorite TV show? “Ancient Aliens”
Favorite happy hour spot? The bar at Bern’s
TMS OF SOUTH TAMPA
508 S. Habana Ave., Suite 320
(813) 878-2100
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