Beth, might you be confusing TMS with ECT?
What you are describing is typical of out-patient ECT, where an efficient, well-run clinic can admit, treat, recover, and discharge an experienced patient about 1-1/2 or 2 hours.
TMS does not require a patient to be npo, there is no IV or sedation, and no recovery time. Most patients drive themselves to and from treatment, often before or after work, or even possibly on a lunch hour. Max time in the chair is about 40 minutes.
I have become familiar with this procedure recently, accompanying a family member. The clinic is part of a multi-specialty psychiatric practice, with MDs, NPs, therapists, RNs and psych. techs.
The initial mapping of each patient is conducted in 2 steps, first by the RN and tech working in tandem. Once they determine the ideal coordinates, the procedure is repeated by the physician, and then results are compared to those generated by the machine itself. The first treatment is conducted by the physician. Mapping is repeated approximately 1/2 way thru the course of treatment.
Each session is conducted by either the RN or psych tech, with a second professional present in the office. The person conducting the treatment uses the time to converse with the patient, present educational information, etc. This isn't a therapy session, but is useful in assessing the client's mood, activity level, motivation, behavioral plan, side effects, etc. It is not acceptable in this practice to plug in earphones and "chill" during the treatment.
To Curious MD, As a business owner myself, I understand the challenge of starting up a new business and realize that personnel represent the biggest expense, by far. Though it may be tempting to cut corners to save on this expense, I implore you NOT to do so. Give up your own salary first. (Like many entrepreneurs, we went for a few years without paying ourselves.) It is necessary, and will pay dividends down the line when your business thrives because of the quality and commitment of the front-line people interacting with your patients.
Best of luck to you.
