Dr Basanth Kenchaiah

Dr Basanth Kenchaiah is a psychiatrist based in Richmond, Melbourne. With over ten years of experience, he specializes in managing substance use disorders, focusing on patients dependent on prescription medications such as opioid analgesics and benzodiazepines. Dr Kenchaiah is well-versed in opioid pharmacotherapy and substitution therapy, using agents like Buprenorphine, Suboxone, or Methadone when necessary. He works closely with pain specialists to ensure comprehensive and effective care for his patients, including coordinating inpatient stays when required.

Recognizing the potential complications arising from multiple medications over time, particularly among patients with chronic pain, Dr Kenchaiah is passionate about deprescribing principles. He strives to reduce the number of medications his patients are taking, collaborating with other specialists to facilitate necessary changes and optimize overall health outcomes.

Dr Kenchaiah's extensive experience includes working at Melbourne Health for over a decade and currently holding public appointments at The Alfred and St. Vincent's mental health services. Moreover, he serves as the Chair of the Subcommittee for Advanced Training in Addiction Psychiatry at the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatry. His expertise and knowledge make him a valuable resource for individuals struggling with substance use disorders or in need of chronic pain management.

Dr Basanth Kenchaiah provides services to patients between the ages of 18 and 60. He has experience working with non-English speaking individuals and specializes in addiction, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorders, pain management, personality disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, schizophrenia, and supportive psychotherapy. His services also include opinion and report consultations (MBS item 291) and shared care services.