At Mindful East Psychiatry, we prioritize patient safety, evidence-based prescribing, and responsible use of controlled medications.
Because controlled substances (including stimulants, benzodiazepines, and certain sleep medications) carry risks of dependence, misuse, and diversion, we follow strict prescribing guidelines outlined below:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation Required
Controlled substances are not prescribed during an initial visit. A full psychiatric evaluation is required before any controlled medication is considered.
2. Diagnostic Confirmation
For conditions such as ADHD, additional documentation or a formal diagnostic assessment may be required before stimulant medications are prescribed.
3. Prescription Monitoring Program (PDMP) Review
We routinely review state Prescription Drug Monitoring Programs to ensure safe prescribing practices and to prevent medication overlap or misuse.
4. Urine Drug Screening
Urine drug screening may be required prior to initiating or continuing controlled medications. Refusal to complete the required screening may affect prescribing decisions.
5. Single Prescriber / Single Pharmacy Policy
Patients receiving controlled medications from this clinic are expected to use:
- One prescribing provider (Mindful East Psychiatry)
- One designated pharmacy
6. Substance Use Policy
- Controlled substances may not be prescribed if there is:
- Active illicit substance use
- Unsafe or non-prescribed use of controlled medications
- Evidence of medication misuse or diversion
7. Ongoing Monitoring
Patients prescribed controlled substances will require regular follow-up visits for monitoring of effectiveness, side effects, and safety. Frequency of visits may vary based on clinical need.
8. Refills and Early Requests
Controlled substances are prescribed according to regulatory guidelines. Early refills, replacement of lost or stolen medication, or dose changes outside of scheduled visits are generally not permitted.
9. Clinical Discretion
All prescribing decisions are made at the clinical discretion of the provider, based on safety, medical necessity, and applicable state and federal regulations.