At Idyllium Behavioral Health, we are committed to responsible, evidence-based prescribing practices. We prescribe medications in a thoughtful, patient-centered manner, considering each individual’s health, wellness, and treatment needs. This policy outlines our approach to prescribing Schedule II-IV medications, excluding pain medications.

1. Commitment to Patient-Centered Care

We ensure that medications are prescribed in alignment with each patient’s unique needs:

• Comprehensive assessment of medical history, mental health, and treatment goals.

• Patient involvement in the decision-making process, ensuring that they understand the purpose, risks, and benefits of medications.

• Ongoing monitoring of efficacy and side effects to adjust treatment as necessary.

2. Schedule II-IV Medications

Idyllium Behavioral Health prescribes Schedule II-IV controlled substances where clinically indicated, primarily for the treatment of:

• Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)

• Anxiety disorders (when appropriate and based on patient needs)

• Other mental health conditions that may benefit from stimulant or non-stimulant medications.
  However, pain medications (such as opioids) are not prescribed at this practice.

3. Parental Consent for Children Under 18

For children under 18, parental consent is required prior to prescribing controlled substances. We recognize that stimulant medications (including those classified as Schedule II controlled substances) may be necessary for the treatment of certain diagnoses, such as ADHD. In these cases, we follow these procedures to ensure the child’s health and safety:

• Parental consent must be obtained for any controlled substances prescribed to minors.

• Pediatric face-to-face evaluation: We require a completed Pediatric Face-to-Face Form from the child’s pediatrician. This form must state:

  • That the child does not have any health problems that could be negatively impacted by controlled substances.

  • That the pediatrician believes the child would benefit from this type of medication.

  • Vital signs (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and weight) should be included in the form, confirming that the child is in good health and appropriate for the medication.

• We will monitor children who are prescribed controlled substances regularly to:

  • Ensure the medication is effective and necessary.

  • Track side effects and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

  • Ensure comprehensive care that includes therapy, support, and family involvement when appropriate.

4. Regulatory Considerations for Telemedicine and Controlled Substances

Under the Ryan Height Act and current government regulations:

• Telemedicine providers are not required to conduct an in-person evaluation for the prescription of controlled substances for adults 18 and over.

• However, Idyllium Behavioral Health reserves the right to request in-person evaluations for minors, even though the current regulation may not require it for telehealth prescriptions.
  We do this to protect the health and well-being of minors, ensuring that medications are only prescribed when absolutely necessary and under the supervision of a licensed healthcare professional.

5. Ongoing Monitoring and Follow-Up for Controlled Substances

Patients who are prescribed controlled substances for any condition will receive:

• Regular follow-up appointments to monitor the medication’s effectiveness and to assess side effects.

• Comprehensive care plans, which may include behavioral therapy, lifestyle changes, and additional treatments to support the patient’s overall mental health.

6. Ethical and Legal Compliance

Our practice adheres to all state and federal regulations regarding controlled substances, ensuring:

• Compliance with HIPAA to protect patient privacy and confidentiality.

• Monitoring prescribing practices to prevent misuse and ensure the responsible use of medications.

• Transparency with patients and families about the risks, benefits, and alternatives to controlled substances.

7. Conclusion

At Idyllium Behavioral Health, we take the responsibility of prescribing controlled substances seriously. Our goal is to ensure that every patient receives safe, appropriate care tailored to their individual needs. For children under 18, we prioritize safety by requiring thorough evaluations from pediatricians and ongoing monitoring throughout treatment.