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A psychiatrist serving as a Site Sub-Investigator has a defined research role, while shared clinical care remains a separate professional relationship. The research role supports activities assigned under a study protocol and delegation records. A clinical consultation addresses the person's care question and does not automatically replace the clinician who referred them.
In a study, the Principal Investigator oversees the site and may delegate specific responsibilities to qualified team members. A Sub-Investigator may perform assigned protocol activities, such as evaluations, safety-related reviews, or assessments, within that study structure. The exact responsibilities depend on the protocol and the site's current delegation documentation.
For a referring clinician, the first question is whether the need is clinical care, research interest, or both. A clinical referral should use the professional consultation route and describe the coordination question. Interest in a public study should begin through the research contact route. Keeping those starting points separate helps patients and offices understand which team is responding and why.
Shared care works best when responsibilities are explicit. Before referring, consider asking: Who will manage ongoing psychiatric care? What information is needed before the consultation? How will findings or recommendations be communicated back? Is the patient asking about a clinical consultation, a research opportunity, or two distinct conversations? These questions support clearer communication without assuming an outcome.
Clinical records, treatment plans, and other protected information should move only through secure channels arranged with the practice. Public registry listings and website information can explain a study at a high level, but they are not substitutes for direct clinical or research communication. Use the appropriate consultation or research contact path to start the conversation.
A brief referral cover note can reduce avoidable back-and-forth. State the reason for consultation, the relevant time frame, the current care team, and the best secure route for follow-up. If there is a time-sensitive coordination concern, describe the concern without placing protected details in an unsecured message, then ask the practice how to send the supporting information.