Policies & Procedures

ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY

All patients will conduct themselves in a socially appropriate fashion at all times. The following forms of aggressive or manipulative behavior will not be tolerated and will be grounds for immediate dismissal from the practice: drug seeking behavior, aggressive power-driven argument, prescription forgery, scatalogical speech, insults, failure to keep appointments, medication diversion (i.e. selling prescription medication), or attempts to circumvent payment or defraud the practice. The care that is being delivered in this practice is at a premium as there are very few practitioners who provide these services. Those who wish to remain patients of this practice will treat all staff members with courtesy and respect.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Addiction Medicine services have been recognized by Congress as requiring increased protection from disclosure to third parties. Federal laws governing “Confidentiality of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Patient Records” (42 U.S.C. 290dd-2) are more stringent than those of HIPAA, and they supersede HIPAA regulations. Federal rules permit disclosures in only 9 limited circumstances: 1) When patient signs a consent form that complies with the regulations’ requirements, 2) When the disclosure does not identify the patient as a substance abuser, 3) When program staff members consult among themselves, 4) When the disclosure is to a “qualified service organization” that provides services to the program, 5) When there is a medical emergency, 6) When the program must report child abuse or neglect, 7) When the patient commits a crime at the program or against staff members, 8.) When the information is for research, audit, or evaluation purposes, 9) When a court issues a special order authorizing disclosure.

These rules apply regardless of whether the person seeking information already has the information, has other ways of obtaining it, has official status, is authorized by state law, or has a subpoena or search warrant.

In other words, we don’t release your records to anyone without your permission and it takes a court order from a judge (not just an attorney) to get these records. If you elect to pay for your medications using insurance, your insurance company may require a prior authorization which will require disclosure of your diagnosis code. Your medical records will only be released with your permission or by means of a court order issued by a judge. Court orders are usually issued in criminal cases.

INSURANCE

We understand that managing healthcare expenses can be a concern for many. It’s important for us to mention that our clinic operates independently of insurance companies. This allows us to offer our services at more accessible rates.

We are aware of the financial and personal challenges that can arise from substance dependence. Our goal is to provide effective treatment solutions that are not only beneficial for your health and well-being but also cost-efficient in the long term. As our patients progress successfully through their recovery journey, the frequency of visits typically decreases. Investing in our services can often be less burdensome financially compared to the ongoing expenses related to substance dependence.

APPOINTMENT SCHEDULING AND COMMUNICATION

All scheduling is done by phone. You will receive a text message or phone call or automated e-mail the day prior to your appointment. E-mail is not secure. We do not use e-mail to address patient problems or inquiries. If you have a problem, call us.

PATIENTS WHO DO NOT SHOW UP FOR THEIR FIRST APPOINTMENT WILL NOT BE GIVEN A SECOND APPOINTMENT—NO EXCEPTIONS. IF YOU CANCEL YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT WITH 24 HOURS NOTICE AND WANT TO RESCHEDULE, WE WILL REQUIRE A $200 DEPOSIT IN ADVANCE IN ORDER TO RESCHEDULE.

PAYMENT FOR SERVICES

We accept Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and Cash. No Checks. All payments are due in full at the time of service.

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you have to cancel or change your appointment we require at least 24-hour notice prior to cancellation. Same day cancellations are subject to a $50 penalty for established patients.

PATIENTS WHO DO NOT SHOW UP FOR THEIR FIRST APPOINTMENT WILL NOT BE GIVEN A SECOND APPOINTMENT—NO EXCEPTIONS. IF YOU CANCEL YOUR FIRST APPOINTMENT WITH 24 HOURS NOTICE AND WANT TO RESCHEDULE, WE WILL REQUIRE A $200 DEPOSIT IN ADVANCE IN ORDER TO RESCHEDULE.

FINANCIAL POLICY

The following charges apply: $50 for missed appointments or same day cancellations of established patients (new patients will not be given 2nd appointments if they fail to attend the first appointment); $25 per completion of Insurance Company Prior Authorizations; $40 for Professional Letter; Disability Form completion $40; Form completion for other 3rd parties $40.