Policies

Protecting Your Privacy and Ensuring Smooth Care

This document outlines important policies to ensure a successful working relationship between you and me. It covers aspects like payments, appointments, communication, and confidentiality.

Payments and Statements:

  • We accept credit card payments at the time of your appointment or to secure your spot beforehand.

  • Monthly statements are available upon request.

Appointments:

  • Cancellations: A minimum of 48 hours' notice is required to avoid a full-fee cancellation charge.

  • Frequency: The number of visits depends on your individual needs. Typically, new patients are seen monthly for the first six months.

  • Telemedicine: We offer secure telepsychiatry appointments. To use this service, you must be physically located in Pennsylvania during your appointment.

  • Urgent Needs: If you require an earlier appointment, please call or email to discuss your availability. We'll try our best to accommodate you.

Communication:

  • Emails: Emails are best for scheduling appointments and basic information exchange. Discussions about medication, side effects, or treatment plans should happen during appointments.

  • Medication Refills: Refills will be addressed during appointments. For concerns, email us with your full name,date of birth, and pharmacy details.

Important Information:

  • Controlled Substances: Pennsylvania's Prescription Drug Monitoring Program is checked for controlled medications. Medications are for you only and should never be shared. A urine test may be requested if deemed clinically necessary.

  • After-Hours: Emails and calls will be returned within 24-72 hours. Non-urgent matters will be addressed during business hours.

  • Emergencies: In case of a psychiatric emergency, call 911, go to your nearest Crisis Response Center, or emergency department. Inform the provider of our contact information.

Additional Fees:

  • Forms and Letters: Extensive forms (over 15 minutes) for medication authorizations, work, school, or disability may incur a $100 fee.

  • Phone Consultations: Extended phone conversations with other healthcare providers, family members, etc., (over 15 minutes) may incur a $100 fee.

Sharing Your Information:

  • With your permission, we may share information with other healthcare providers involved in your treatment. You will be notified beforehand. For minors, disclosures may be made to caregivers or authorities in cases of self-harm or abuse concerns. I am also a mandated reporter for suspected child abuse.

Ending Treatment:

If we decide to discontinue our work together, you will receive at least a one-month medication supply and referrals (upon request). I may also need to discontinue treatment if deemed necessary for your care.

Confidentiality in Public:

To protect confidentiality, if we see each other in public, I will not acknowledge you unless you do first. Feel free to discuss this further during our sessions.