Appointments

POLICIES

MEDICAL AND MENTAL HEALTH RECORDS

I am bound by the law and the standards of my profession which requires me to keep appropriate treatment records. Because these are professional records, they can be misinterpreted, so I always recommend that we review them together so that we can discuss any concerns you may have. I am also able to prepare summaries upon request for an additional fee.

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CONFIDENTIALITY

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance in your treatment and is protected by the law. I can only release information about our work to others with your written (or electrically signed) permission. Some basic information about diagnosis and treatment may be required as a condition of your insurance coverage should you elect to seek reimbursement. Please be aware of the following exceptions to confidentiality where disclosure is required by law:

1.    If there is the threat of serious bodily harm to yourself or others, we are required to take protective actions, which may include notifying the potential victim, notifying the police, or seeking appropriate hospitalization.

2.    If there is an indication of abuse to a child, an elderly person, or a disabled person, even if it is about a party other than yourself, we must file a report with the appropriate state agency.

3.    If a judge may require our staff’s testimony through a subpoena.

4.    If due to mental illness, you are unable to meet your basic needs, such as clothing, food, and shelter, we may have to disclose information in order to access services to provide for your basic needs.

These situations are rare and when they arise I make my best effort to work in cooperation with you to make the process as smooth as possible.

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MEDICATION REFILLS

Please make all requests at least 4 business days   prior to medication expiring. Requesting a refill in less time than this may result in interruptions in your treatment, especially around weekends and holidays. Please plan accordingly. 

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Please primarily use the onpatient portal for refill requests.  You may use my voicemail line as well for medication refill requests. In your message, clearly state:

- Your name

- Your phone number

- Your date of birth

- The name and phone number of your pharmacy

- The name and current dosage of your medication(s)

If it has been longer than 4 months since you have been seen last, refills cannot be given without having an in office visit to ensure that we are achieving your appropriate therapeutic goals.  I will always give you a sufficient supply of medication to last until your next recommended follow-up appointment. Should complicated issues arise I may ask that you come in for an appointment prior to receiving a refill or bridging supply of medication.

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BILLING AND PAYMENTS

It is usual and customary to pay for my professional services when rendered, unless we agree otherwise.  Payment schedules for other services will be agreed to at the time these services are requested. If your account has payment overdue for over 60 days, I have the option of using legal means to secure payment, including collection agencies or small claims court.  I accept check, credit, and debit cards.  

LEGAL TESTIMONY

It is often unforeseen but legal matters requiring the testimony of a mental health professional can and do arise.  Legal testimony can often be damaging to the relationship between a patient and his/her therapist or physician.  As such I require that you employ independent forensic psychiatric services should this type of evaluation or testimony be required.