Practice Policies & Notices
The following policies and notices govern administrative, clinical, billing, communication, and privacy practices at A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Clients are encouraged to review these policies carefully.
These policies reflect the current operational and legal standards of A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically. The most current version is always available on this page
At A New Hope Psychiatric Services, we are committed to providing quality care while maintaining clear financial expectations regarding appointments, insurance, balances, and payment responsibilities.
This Financial Policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services. Policies, fees, and procedures may be updated periodically to maintain compliance with applicable laws and operational requirements.
This online policy is the current version of the Financial Policy for A New Hope Psychiatric Services. Clients are responsible for reviewing and complying with this policy as posted on the practice website.
Payment Information
A valid and chargeable credit or debit card on file is required to schedule, maintain, and attend appointments.
Payment for services is due at the time of service and may be automatically processed to the card on file in accordance with the signed Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization.
Authorized charges may include, but are not limited to, self-pay fees, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance amounts, estimated patient responsibility amounts, no-show or late cancellation fees, same-day appointment fees, administrative fees, psychological evaluation fees, Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Package fees, and outstanding balances.
Co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, self-pay fees, estimated patient responsibility amounts, and other known patient-responsible amounts may be charged at the time of the appointment or within one (1) hour before the scheduled appointment time.
For insurance-based appointments, A New Hope Psychiatric Services may estimate patient responsibility using the applicable out-of-pocket service fees listed in this policy until final insurance claim adjudication is completed.
For example, if a client has a 20% co-insurance responsibility and the listed rate for an Initial Psychiatric Evaluation is $250.00, approximately $50.00 may be charged at the time of the appointment.
Final insurance claim adjudication is determined by the insurance carrier. If the insurance carrier later determines the client owes less than the amount collected, the overpayment may be refunded or credited. If the insurance carrier determines the client owes more than the amount collected, the remaining balance may be charged to the card on file.
If the original payment method is unavailable, removed, expired, closed, or otherwise unable to receive a refund, the amount may instead be applied as a credit to the client’s account unless otherwise required by law.
Accepted payment methods include debit cards and major credit cards, including Visa and MasterCard.
Service Fees — Out-of-Pocket Pay
Psychiatric Services
Initial Psychiatric Evaluation, 1 hour: $250.00
Medication Management / Follow-Up Appointment, 30 minutes: $125.00
Therapy Services
Therapist Visit, 1 hour: $150.00
Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Package
Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Package: $300.00
This structured testing package may include psychometric instruments, cognitive testing platform access, scoring, interpretation, diagnostic documentation integration, and feedback review.
This fee is separate from psychiatric visit billing, is not typically covered by insurance, and payment is due at the time the appointment is scheduled.
Completion of testing does not guarantee an ADHD diagnosis, stimulant treatment, or controlled substance prescribing.
Psychological Evaluations
Psychological evaluations are cash-pay only and are not billable to insurance.
Rate: $250.00 per 60 minutes.
A minimum of two (2) hours is required, for a minimum total fee of $500.00 due at the time of service.
Clients must acknowledge this policy before scheduling.
Insurance & Reimbursement
Insurance coverage depends on eligibility and verification completed before the appointment.
Required paperwork must be submitted at least 48 business hours before appointments requiring insurance verification.
Clients remain responsible for all costs not covered by insurance, including denied claims, co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, and non-covered services.
A New Hope Psychiatric Services submits insurance claims as a courtesy. Final coverage decisions are made solely by the insurance carrier.
Self-pay rates must be elected before the date of service. Retroactive self-pay elections are not permitted after claim submission.
Outstanding Balances, Failed Payments, and Account Holds
Accounts with an outstanding balance of $200.00 or more may be placed on account hold. Future non-emergent appointments may be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until the balance is resolved.
If payment cannot be successfully processed at the time of the appointment, the appointment may be treated as a late cancellation or no-show, subject to applicable fees. Future non-emergent appointments may also be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until the payment issue and any outstanding balance are resolved.
A payment method may be considered invalid if it is declined, locked, restricted, expired, replaced, has insufficient funds, blocks authorized charges, or otherwise cannot be successfully processed.
Notice regarding failed payments, balances, invoices, invalid payment methods, or account holds may be provided through the client portal, IntakeQ, email, text message, phone call, voicemail, written notice, or any other communication method available to the practice. Notice sent through IntakeQ or the patient portal is considered sufficient notice.
Clients will generally be provided up to seven (7) calendar days from notification to resolve balances, update payment information, establish an approved payment plan if offered, and/or resolve billing discrepancies.
If the client has an upcoming appointment scheduled within that seven (7) calendar day period, the balance and/or payment method issue must be resolved by the end of the business day on which notice is provided, unless otherwise approved by administration. If the issue is not resolved by that time, the upcoming appointment may be canceled and/or treated as a late cancellation or no-show, subject to applicable fees.
If the issue remains unresolved after seven (7) calendar days, future non-emergent appointments may be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until resolved.
Payment plans are not guaranteed. Unless otherwise approved by the practice, future non-emergent appointments may remain on hold until balances are paid and valid payment information is maintained.
More than one failed payment attempt, declined transaction, invalid payment method, or failure to maintain a valid and chargeable payment method may be considered repeated noncompliance and may result in discharge from the practice in accordance with applicable laws, ethical standards, and continuity-of-care requirements.
Discharge from the practice, when applicable, will be handled through the practice’s standard discharge process, including appropriate notice, emergency care instructions, and transition-of-care information as clinically appropriate.
Approved one-time waivers for no-show or late cancellation fees may require the applicable fee to be successfully charged and temporarily held pending compliance with the separate No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy.
Administrative exceptions may be granted at the discretion of the practice.
Account holds and appointment suspensions are administrative actions and are separate from the practice’s collections procedures or referral to third-party collections.
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is not responsible, to the extent permitted by law, for delays in treatment, medication refills, medication adjustments, interruption of care, or other consequences resulting from a client’s failure to comply with this Financial Policy. This does not limit the client’s right to seek emergency care or the practice’s obligation to provide care as required by applicable law.
Same-Day Appointment Fees
New Appointments: $100.00 additional fee
Follow-Up Appointments: $75.00 additional fee
Applies regardless of insurance or self-pay status.
No-Show / Late Cancellation Fees
Established Patients: $100.00
New Patients: $150.00
Please see the separate No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy for complete details.
Forms and Administrative Fees
Medical Records Requests
$1.00 per page for the first 25 pages.
$0.25 per page for each additional page after 25.
Applies to printed, faxed, and staff-processed record requests in accordance with Florida Statute §456.057.
Electronic Transmission of Records
$10.00 administrative fee per request for records transmitted through staff-handled electronic methods.
Patient portal access to records is provided at no charge.
Administrative Forms
FMLA, disability, and complex paperwork: $50.00 per page, maximum $200.00.
Payment is required before completion.
School or Work Notes
Free during appointments.
$25.00 if requested outside an appointment.
Cancellation Policy
Appointments must be canceled at least 48 business hours in advance.
Late cancellations and no-shows are subject to the applicable fees listed above.
Price Changes
Prices and fees are subject to change with prior notice.
Good Faith Estimate — No Surprises Act Compliance
Clients paying out of pocket or without insurance have the right to receive a Good Faith Estimate explaining expected healthcare costs before services are rendered.
For more information, visit www.cms.gov/nosurprises.
Client Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services, clients acknowledge that they are responsible for reviewing and complying with this Financial Policy and accept responsibility for all applicable fees, balances, payment obligations, and charges described herein.
No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy
A New Hope Psychiatric Services values both new and established patients and strives to provide timely, efficient, clinically appropriate care. This policy establishes expectations for appointment attendance, arrival times, cancellations, telehealth location compliance, and repeated missed appointments.
The purpose of this policy is to support continuity of care, reduce scheduling disruptions, maintain clinical safety, and ensure appointments can be managed effectively for all clients.
Arrival Time
New patients should arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled appointment.
Established patients should arrive 5 minutes before the scheduled appointment.
Patients arriving more than 10 minutes late for psychiatric appointments, including medication management and psychiatric evaluations, will be considered a no-show and will be subject to this policy.
Patients arriving more than 15 minutes late for therapy appointments will be considered a no-show and will be subject to this policy.
Appointment Reminders
Text message reminders are sent several days before appointments, giving clients time to cancel or reschedule if needed.
Appointments must be canceled or rescheduled at least 48 business hours in advance to avoid fees.
Reminders are provided as a courtesy and do not replace the client’s responsibility to attend appointments as scheduled or cancel within the required timeframe.
No Show / Late Cancellation / No Contact Policy
Appointments canceled or rescheduled less than 48 business hours before the scheduled time, appointments where the client does not attend, or appointments where the client arrives beyond the allowed arrival window will be charged as follows:
Established Patients: $100.00
New Patients: $150.00
These fees are not covered by insurance and are the client’s responsibility.
If required payment cannot be successfully processed at the time of the appointment, the appointment may be treated as a late cancellation or no-show, subject to the applicable fee. Future non-emergent appointments may also be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until the payment issue and any outstanding balance are resolved.
One-Time Waiver Policy
A one-time waiver may be considered for a no-show or late cancellation fee if the missed appointment is rescheduled within seven (7) calendar days and the rescheduled appointment is completed.
The client must schedule with the original provider if that provider has availability within seven (7) calendar days.
If the original provider is unavailable, the client may schedule with another available provider within seven (7) calendar days.
If no provider appointments are available within seven (7) calendar days, the waiver may be considered only with administrative review and approval.
One-time waivers are not guaranteed and may be denied if the client does not maintain a valid and chargeable payment method on file.
For any approved one-time waiver, the applicable no-show or late cancellation fee must first be successfully charged and temporarily held.
If the client attempts to reschedule under the one-time waiver policy and the card on file cannot be successfully charged, the client must correct the payment issue by the end of that business day. If the payment issue is not corrected by the end of that business day, the one-time waiver will not apply unless otherwise approved by administration.
Waiver requests made after the day of the missed or late-canceled appointment are not automatically approved. If the client requests to reschedule after the applicable fee has already been successfully charged, the client must still reschedule and complete an appointment within seven (7) calendar days of the missed or late-canceled appointment for waiver eligibility to be considered.
If the rescheduled appointment is completed within the approved waiver period, the held fee may be refunded to the original payment method when possible.
If the original payment method is unavailable, removed, expired, closed, or otherwise unable to receive the refund, the amount may instead be applied as a credit to the client’s account unless otherwise required by law or approved by administration.
If the rescheduled appointment is missed, canceled late, rescheduled again outside the approved waiver terms, or otherwise not completed, the held fee will not be refunded.
If the rescheduled appointment is also missed or late-canceled, an additional no-show or late cancellation fee may apply in addition to the original held fee.
Telehealth Location Requirement
For telehealth appointments, clients must be physically located in Florida, or in another jurisdiction where the provider is legally authorized to practice, at the time of the appointment.
Clients are responsible for notifying the practice at least 48 business hours in advance if they will be outside Florida or outside another approved jurisdiction at the time of the appointment.
If a client attends or attempts to attend a telehealth appointment while outside an authorized jurisdiction, the provider may be unable to legally or clinically render services. This may be treated as a late cancellation or no-show because the client was not eligible to receive the scheduled clinical service at the time of the appointment.
Exceptions may be made at the discretion of the practice based on clinical, legal, emergency, or administrative circumstances.
Definitions
No Show: Failure to appear for a scheduled appointment, arriving beyond the allowed arrival window, or failing to meet requirements necessary for the appointment to proceed.
Late Cancellation: Cancellation or rescheduling made less than 48 business hours before the scheduled appointment.
No Contact: Failure to attend a scheduled appointment and failure to notify the practice before or after the appointment time.
Telehealth Location Non-Compliance: Attending or attempting to attend a telehealth appointment while physically located outside Florida or outside another jurisdiction where the provider is legally authorized to practice.
Appointment Unable to Proceed: A scheduled appointment that cannot be completed due to the client’s failure to meet clinical, legal, telehealth, safety, payment, or administrative requirements at the time of service.
Repeated Missed Appointments
After three (3) No Show / Late Cancellation / No Contact occurrences, A New Hope Psychiatric Services reserves the right to discharge the client from the practice in accordance with applicable laws, ethical standards, and continuity-of-care requirements.
Telehealth appointments that cannot be completed because the client is physically located outside an authorized jurisdiction may be included in the appointment history reviewed for repeated missed appointments, when clinically and administratively appropriate.
Appointments that cannot proceed due to unresolved payment issues, invalid payment methods, or failure to comply with required administrative requirements may also be reviewed when determining continued appropriateness of care.
Discharge is not automatic and, when applicable, will be handled through the practice’s standard discharge process, including appropriate notice, emergency care instructions, and transition-of-care information as clinically appropriate.
Medication and Treatment Disclaimer
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is not responsible, to the extent permitted by law, for adverse effects, health complications, medication lapses, treatment delays, refill delays, medication adjustment delays, interruption of care, or other consequences resulting from missed appointments, late cancellations, no-shows, failure to seek timely care, failure to comply with payment or administrative requirements, or failure to meet telehealth eligibility requirements.
Missed appointments, late cancellations, no-shows, unresolved payment issues, or appointments that cannot proceed may delay medication refills, treatment adjustments, or the ability to discuss potential side effects with the provider.
Continuation of treatment is contingent upon the client’s ability to attend scheduled appointments and comply with treatment, telehealth, financial, and administrative requirements, as determined by the provider and the practice.
This does not limit the client’s right to seek emergency care or the practice’s obligation to provide care as required by applicable law.
Documentation and Review
A New Hope Psychiatric Services may document missed appointments, late cancellations, no-contact occurrences, telehealth location issues, payment-related appointment issues, administrative exceptions, and related communications.
Clients with repeated missed appointments, late cancellations, no-contact occurrences, unresolved administrative issues, payment-related appointment issues, or appointments that cannot be completed due to telehealth location non-compliance may be reviewed for continued appropriateness of care.
Possible outcomes may include education, written warning, scheduling limits, account hold, enforcement of applicable fees, or discharge from the practice when clinically, legally, and ethically appropriate.
Any discharge decision will be handled in accordance with the practice’s Discharge / Termination from Practice Policy.
Important Note
For details regarding payment methods, valid card requirements, insurance coverage, same-day fees, account holds, failed payments, and other financial terms, please refer to the Financial Policy and Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization.
This online policy is the current version of the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy for A New Hope Psychiatric Services. Clients are responsible for reviewing and complying with this policy as posted on the practice website.
Client Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services, clients acknowledge that they are responsible for reviewing and complying with this No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, including attendance, cancellation, arrival, telehealth location, payment-related appointment, and scheduling requirements.
Credit Card on File & Automated Payment Policy
Purpose
To ensure timely payment, administrative efficiency, and transparency regarding billing practices, A New Hope Psychiatric Services requires clients to maintain a valid and chargeable credit or debit card on file while actively receiving services.
This policy explains how payment information may be securely stored and used for authorized charges related to services, balances, fees, and other patient-responsible amounts.
Payment Method Requirement
A valid and chargeable credit or debit card on file is required to schedule, maintain, and attend appointments with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
A payment method may be considered invalid or noncompliant if it is declined, locked, restricted, expired, replaced, reported lost, has insufficient funds, blocks authorized charges, or otherwise cannot be successfully processed.
Clients are responsible for keeping payment information accurate, current, active, and able to process authorized charges.
If the client is not the cardholder, the client is responsible for ensuring authorization from the cardholder to use the card for payment of charges related to services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Credit Card Storage and Security
Credit and debit card information is securely stored through the practice’s electronic systems in accordance with applicable security standards.
Any payment method provided or used at any time, including in person, online, through the client portal, or by phone, may be securely stored on file and used for future authorized charges unless authorization is revoked in writing.
Authorized Charges
The card on file may be charged for patient-responsible amounts, including but not limited to:
- Co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance
- Self-pay or out-of-pocket service fees
- Estimated patient responsibility amounts
- Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Package fees
- Psychological evaluation fees
- Same-day appointment fees
- No-show fees
- Late cancellation fees
- Administrative fees
- Forms, records, or documentation fees
- Outstanding balances
- Balances remaining after insurance processing
- Fees or balances related to failed, declined, or returned payment attempts, if applicable
- Any other charges authorized under the Financial Policy, No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization, or other signed practice agreements
Timing of Charges
Charges for scheduled appointments, including co-pays, deductibles, co-insurance, estimated patient responsibility amounts, self-pay fees, and other known patient-responsible amounts, may be processed at the time of the appointment or within one (1) hour before the scheduled appointment time.
No-show fees are processed at the time the appointment is determined to be a no-show, including after the applicable arrival window has passed.
For psychiatric appointments, including medication management and psychiatric evaluations, this generally occurs when the client is more than 10 minutes late.
For therapy appointments, this generally occurs when the client is more than 15 minutes late.
Late cancellation fees are processed at the time the practice is notified that the appointment is being canceled or rescheduled less than 48 business hours before the scheduled appointment.
Same-day appointment fees are charged at the time the same-day appointment is scheduled.
Comprehensive ADHD Assessment Package fees are charged at the time the appointment is scheduled.
Psychological evaluation fees are charged at the time the psychological evaluation appointment is scheduled.
Administrative fees, records fees, forms fees, and other requested-service fees are charged at the time the service is requested or before the service is completed, as applicable.
Outstanding balances, insurance balances, or other patient-responsible amounts may be charged once the balance is identified, including after insurance processing is completed, after the claim is returned, or after the insurance carrier identifies a patient responsibility amount.
As a courtesy, A New Hope Psychiatric Services may send notice through the client portal before charging an insurance-related balance, stating that the balance may be charged within 24 hours or after the notice period stated in the message. This courtesy notice is not required before processing charges already authorized by this policy, the Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization, the Financial Policy, the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, or other signed practice agreements.
No separate invoice is required before processing charges already authorized by this policy, the Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization, the Financial Policy, the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, or other signed practice agreements.
Insurance Processing and Estimated Patient Responsibility
Insurance eligibility and benefit information may be used to estimate patient responsibility at the time of service.
A New Hope Psychiatric Services may charge estimated patient responsibility amounts, including co-pays, deductibles, and co-insurance, at the time of the appointment.
For insurance-based appointments, the practice may use the applicable out-of-pocket service fee listed in the Financial Policy to estimate patient responsibility until final insurance claim adjudication is completed.
Final insurance claim adjudication is determined by the insurance carrier. If the insurance carrier later determines that the client owes less than the amount collected, the overpaid amount may be refunded or credited. If the insurance carrier determines that the client owes more than the amount collected, the remaining balance may be charged to the card on file.
Charges for patient-responsible amounts identified by the client’s insurance carrier are not considered “balance billing,” but are amounts identified as the client’s responsibility by the insurance carrier, Explanation of Benefits, claim response, or other insurance processing information.
If the original payment method is unavailable, removed, expired, closed, or otherwise unable to receive a refund, the overpayment may instead be applied as a credit to the client’s account unless otherwise required by law or approved by administration.
Card Not on File, Failed Payments, Declined Cards, and Account Holds
A valid and chargeable payment method is required to schedule, maintain, and attend appointments with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
If a client does not have a valid and chargeable card on file, or if the card on file is declined, locked, restricted, expired, replaced, reported lost, has insufficient funds, blocks authorized charges, or otherwise cannot be successfully processed, the client is responsible for updating the payment method and resolving any balance owed.
A New Hope Psychiatric Services may provide notice requesting that the client add or update a valid and chargeable card on file. Notice may be provided through the client portal, email, text message, phone call, voicemail, written notice, or any other communication method available to the practice.
Once notice is provided that a valid and chargeable card is not on file, all non-emergent appointments may be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until the client adds a valid and chargeable payment method and resolves any outstanding balance.
The client will generally have up to seven (7) calendar days from notification to place a valid and chargeable card on file and/or resolve the payment issue.
If the client places a valid and chargeable card on file within the seven (7) calendar day correction period, the client may contact the practice to request rescheduling, subject to provider availability, clinical appropriateness, and applicable practice policies.
If the client does not place a valid and chargeable card on file within seven (7) calendar days of notification, A New Hope Psychiatric Services reserves the right to review whether the client can continue receiving non-emergent services with the practice.
Discharge from the practice, when applicable, will be handled through the practice’s standard discharge process, including appropriate notice, emergency care instructions, referrals or transition-of-care information as clinically appropriate, and steps intended to avoid patient abandonment.
Failure to maintain a valid and chargeable payment method may result in account hold, cancellation or suspension of future non-emergent appointments, and/or review for discharge from the practice in accordance with the Financial Policy, No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, and Discharge / Termination from Practice Policy.
Multiple Cards on File
If multiple cards are stored on an account, the client may designate a preferred card.
If no preferred card is designated, or if the preferred card cannot be successfully charged, A New Hope Psychiatric Services may use any valid card on file to process authorized charges.
One-Time Waivers and Held Fees
Approved one-time waivers for no-show or late cancellation fees may require the applicable fee to be successfully charged and temporarily held in accordance with the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy.
If waiver requirements are met, the held fee may be refunded or credited as described in the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy and Financial Policy.
For detailed waiver eligibility, rescheduling requirements, held fee rules, and missed rescheduled appointment consequences, clients should refer to the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy.
Disputes and Chargebacks
Clients are expected to contact A New Hope Psychiatric Services directly regarding billing questions or disputes before initiating a chargeback, unless the client reasonably believes the charge was fraudulent or unauthorized.
Charges made in accordance with this policy, the Credit Card on File Consent Form & Automated Payment Authorization, the Financial Policy, the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, or other signed practice agreements should not be disputed with the card issuer solely because the client later disagrees with a policy that was previously acknowledged.
In cases of suspected fraud or unauthorized card use, the practice will cooperate with appropriate parties and authorities as required.
Revocation of Authorization
Authorization to store and charge a credit or debit card remains in effect until revoked in writing by the client or authorized cardholder.
Revocation does not eliminate responsibility for charges, balances, or fees incurred before revocation.
If a client requests removal of a card or revokes authorization, any balance already owed for services rendered, missed appointments, late cancellations, administrative fees, insurance balances, or other charges incurred before the revocation request may be charged to the card on file before the card is removed, to the extent permitted by law and applicable practice policies.
A client who does not maintain a valid and chargeable payment method on file may not be able to continue non-emergent services with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Future appointments may be canceled, suspended, or placed on administrative hold until a valid and chargeable payment method is provided and any outstanding balance is resolved.
Revocation does not affect the practice’s right to collect amounts owed through other lawful billing or collections processes.
Policy Availability and Updates
This online policy is the current version of the Credit Card on File & Automated Payment Policy for A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Clients are responsible for reviewing and complying with this policy as posted on the practice website.
Client Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services, clients acknowledge that they are responsible for reviewing and complying with this Credit Card on File & Automated Payment Policy, maintaining a valid and chargeable payment method on file, and paying all authorized charges described herein.
Client Rights and Responsibilities Policy
Purpose
To outline the rights and responsibilities of clients receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services and to promote respectful, ethical, clinically appropriate, and legally compliant care.
Client Rights
Clients receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services have the right to:
- Confidentiality in all matters related to treatment, programming, and services, except as otherwise required or permitted by law.
- Actively participate in decisions regarding their care.
- Be treated with dignity, courtesy, and respect.
- Receive services free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, political beliefs, veteran status, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.
- Know the name, role, and professional qualifications of their clinician.
- Access their client records in accordance with applicable federal and state laws.
- Receive clear information regarding fees for services.
Client Responsibilities
Clients receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services are responsible for:
- Providing accurate and complete information necessary for treatment, billing, scheduling, insurance verification, safety, and telehealth eligibility.
- Notifying the practice in advance if an appointment needs to be canceled or rescheduled, in accordance with the No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy.
- For telehealth appointments, accurately disclosing their physical location at the start of each appointment and notifying the practice in advance if they will be outside Florida or outside another jurisdiction where the provider is legally authorized to practice.
- Participating in telehealth services from a private, safe, and appropriate location whenever possible.
- Refraining from verbal abuse, threats, harassment, discrimination, or aggressive behavior toward staff, providers, or other clients.
- Paying any required fees for services in accordance with the Financial Policy.
- Notifying the practice of any changes to behavioral or medical advance directives.
- Respecting the confidentiality and privacy of treatment sessions. Audio or video recording of sessions is strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorized in writing by both the client and the provider. Unauthorized recording may result in termination of services and may also violate Florida law, including Florida Statute § 934.03.
- Complying with A New Hope Psychiatric Services policies, procedures, treatment expectations, and safety requirements necessary for the delivery of care.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically. The most current version of this policy is available on the practice website.
Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services, clients acknowledge and agree to comply with this policy.
Patient Non-Discrimination Policy
Purpose
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is committed to providing high-quality psychiatric care in an environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and bias. This policy affirms our commitment to treating all patients with dignity, respect, and compassion, in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.
Policy Statement
A New Hope Psychiatric Services does not discriminate in the provision of services, treatment decisions, employment practices, or administrative operations on the basis of any legally protected characteristic.
Care is provided without regard to:
- Race
- Color
- Ethnicity
- National Origin
- Ancestry
- Religion
- Sex
- Gender
- Gender Identity or Expression
- Sexual Orientation
- Marital Status
- Disability
- Age
- Military or Veteran Status
- Genetic Information
- Any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law
Clinical Decision-Making
All clinical decisions — including but not limited to psychiatric evaluations, diagnoses, medication prescribing, treatment planning, and recommendations for services — are based solely on:
- Medical necessity
- Clinical judgment
- Patient safety
- Applicable legal and ethical standards
- The best available medical evidence
Personal characteristics, beliefs, or protected statuses never influence clinical care decisions.
Workforce Compliance
All providers, employees, contractors, trainees, and staff members of A New Hope Psychiatric Services are required to comply with this Non-Discrimination Policy as a condition of their role within the practice.
Discrimination, harassment, or bias by or toward patients, staff, or providers will not be tolerated and may result in corrective action, up to and including termination of employment or contractual relationships.
Patient Conduct Expectations
Patients are expected to engage in care in a manner that is respectful, courteous, and professional toward providers, staff, and others.
A safe and therapeutic treatment environment depends on mutual respect, appropriate boundaries, and professionalism.
Behavior that is discriminatory, harassing, threatening, or abusive may result in limitations on services or discharge from the practice, in accordance with the Discharge and Termination from Practice Policy and applicable legal requirements, including appropriate notice and transition of care.
Concerns and Reporting
Patients who believe they have experienced discrimination are encouraged to notify the practice.
Concerns or complaints may be submitted in writing to the Administrative Office. All reports are reviewed promptly and addressed in accordance with applicable laws, professional standards, and internal procedures.
Legal Compliance
A New Hope Psychiatric Services complies with all applicable federal, state, and local non-discrimination laws and regulations, including but not limited to those enforced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the State of Florida.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Notice of Privacy Practices
Purpose
This Notice of Privacy Practices (“Notice”) describes how medical information about clients of A New Hope Psychiatric Services, LLC may be used and disclosed and how clients may access this information. This policy is maintained in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (“HIPAA”) and applicable federal and state law.
Protected Health Information (PHI)
Protected Health Information (“PHI”) includes individually identifiable health information relating to a client’s past, present, or future physical or mental health condition, the provision of healthcare services, or payment for healthcare services.
This Notice explains how PHI may be used and disclosed and outlines the rights clients have with respect to their PHI.
Legal Duties of the Practice
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is required by law to:
- Maintain the privacy and security of PHI
- Provide notice of legal duties and privacy practices regarding PHI
- Abide by the terms of the Notice currently in effect
The practice reserves the right to change the terms of this Notice. Any revised Notice will apply to all PHI maintained by the practice. The most current version of this Notice is available on the practice website and upon request.
Permitted Uses and Disclosures of PHI
Treatment
PHI may be used and disclosed to provide, coordinate, or manage healthcare treatment and related services. This includes consultation with other healthcare providers, clinical supervisors, or members of a treatment team involved in a client’s care, as permitted by law.
Payment
PHI may be used and disclosed for billing and payment activities, including eligibility determinations, claims processing, medical necessity review, utilization review, and collection activities. Only the minimum necessary PHI will be disclosed for these purposes.
Health Care Operations
PHI may be used or disclosed for healthcare operations such as quality assessment, licensing, accreditation, training, compliance activities, and general business management. PHI may be shared with business associates who are contractually obligated to protect the confidentiality and security of PHI.
Appointment Reminders and Care Coordination
PHI may be used to contact clients regarding appointments, treatment alternatives, or other health-related services.
As Required by Law
PHI may be disclosed when required by federal or state law, including mandatory reporting requirements and government audits.
Serious Threat to Health or Safety
PHI may be disclosed when necessary to prevent or lessen a serious and imminent threat to the health or safety of a client or others, consistent with applicable law and ethical standards.
With Verbal Permission
PHI may be disclosed to family members or others involved in a client’s care with the client’s verbal permission, when appropriate.
With Written Authorization
Uses and disclosures not otherwise permitted by law will be made only with written authorization. Authorizations may be revoked in writing, except to the extent that action has already been taken in reliance on the authorization.
Client Rights Regarding PHI
Clients have the following rights regarding their PHI:
- Right to Access and Copy: Clients may inspect or obtain a copy of their PHI, subject to limited exceptions permitted by law. A reasonable, cost-based fee may apply.
- Right to Amend: Clients may request an amendment to their PHI if they believe it is incorrect or incomplete. Requests may be denied as permitted by law.
- Right to an Accounting of Disclosures: Clients may request an accounting of certain disclosures of PHI. A reasonable fee may apply for multiple requests within a 12-month period.
- Right to Request Restrictions: Clients may request restrictions on certain uses or disclosures of PHI; the practice is not required to agree to all requests.
- Right to Request Confidential Communications: Clients may request communications in a specific manner or at a specific location.
- Right to Be Notified of a Breach: Clients have the right to be notified following a breach of unsecured PHI that may compromise the privacy or security of their information.
- Right to a Paper Copy: Clients may request a paper copy of this Notice at any time.
Complaints
Clients who believe their privacy rights have been violated may file a complaint with A New Hope Psychiatric Services or with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Clients will not be retaliated against for filing a complaint.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
200 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20201
Phone: (202) 619-0257
Privacy-related questions or concerns may also be directed to the practice’s Privacy Officer.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Telehealth Services Policy
Purpose
This policy establishes standards for the provision of telehealth services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services in compliance with Florida law, federal regulations, and professional standards of care. Telehealth is used to improve access to care while maintaining patient safety, confidentiality, and clinical appropriateness.
Definition of Telehealth
Telehealth refers to the delivery of healthcare services through secure, interactive audio and/or video communication technology when the provider and client are in different physical locations. Telehealth may be used for psychiatric evaluations, medication management, psychotherapy, care coordination, and related services when clinically appropriate.
Telehealth does not include emergency services and is not suitable for all clinical situations.
Clinical Appropriateness
Telehealth services are provided only when:
- Clinically appropriate based on the provider’s judgment
- Consistent with applicable laws and professional standards
- The client has provided informed consent for telehealth services
Providers may determine at any time that telehealth is not appropriate and may recommend in-person care or referral to a higher level of care.
Licensure and Jurisdiction
Telehealth services are provided only by licensed clinicians acting within the scope of their professional licensure and in compliance with Florida law. Providers must ensure that telehealth services are delivered in jurisdictions where they are legally authorized to practice.
Client Physical Location Requirement
Telehealth services through A New Hope Psychiatric Services are generally available only when the client is physically located in the State of Florida at the time of the appointment, unless the treating provider is legally authorized to provide services in the jurisdiction where the client is physically located.
Clients are responsible for accurately disclosing their physical location at the start of each telehealth appointment and for notifying the practice in advance if they will be outside Florida or outside another approved jurisdiction at the time of service.
The provider or practice may verify and document the client’s physical location at the beginning of each telehealth encounter.
If a client is physically located outside Florida, or outside another jurisdiction where the provider is legally authorized to practice, the provider may be unable to provide clinical services. In that situation, the appointment may be canceled, rescheduled, or treated as a late cancellation or no-show under the practice’s No Show, Contact, and Arrival Policy, unless an exception is approved by the practice.
Failure to accurately disclose physical location may result in inability to provide treatment, delay in medication refills, cancellation of the appointment, late cancellation/no-show fees, or discharge from telehealth care when clinically and legally appropriate.
Privacy and Security
Telehealth services are conducted using platforms that meet applicable privacy and security standards. Reasonable administrative, technical, and physical safeguards are used to protect protected health information.
Clients are encouraged to participate in telehealth sessions from a private location and to take reasonable steps to protect their own privacy.
Emergency and Crisis Limitations
Telehealth services are not intended for emergency or crisis situations.
Clients experiencing emergencies are instructed to call 911 or seek emergency medical care.
Providers do not deliver emergency services through telehealth.
Providers may require verification of the client’s physical location at the start of telehealth sessions.
Providers may redirect care or terminate telehealth sessions when patient safety cannot be ensured.
Documentation and Records
Telehealth encounters are documented in the client’s medical record in the same manner as in-person services. Records are maintained in accordance with HIPAA and applicable state and federal laws.
Billing and Financial Practices
Telehealth services are billed in accordance with the practice’s Financial Policy and applicable payer requirements. Coverage varies by payer and plan. Clients are responsible for applicable copayments, deductibles, and non-covered services.
If a client attends or attempts to attend a telehealth appointment while outside Florida or outside another approved jurisdiction, and the provider is unable to legally or clinically provide services, the appointment may be canceled, rescheduled, or treated as a late cancellation or no-show under the practice’s policies, unless an exception is approved by the practice.
Consent Requirements
Clients must complete a Telehealth Services Informed Consent prior to receiving telehealth services. Consent may be withdrawn at any time without affecting the client’s right to future care, though in-person services may be required if telehealth is declined.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Electronic Communication & SMS Policy
Purpose
This policy governs the use of electronic communications, including SMS text messaging, email, and patient portal messaging, to ensure compliance with HIPAA, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), and applicable federal and state laws.
Scope of Electronic Communications
Electronic communications may be used for:
- Appointment reminders
- Scheduling and administrative communication
- Billing and payment notifications
- Practice-related information
Electronic communication is not used for emergency or crisis care.
Privacy and Security Considerations
Electronic communications carry inherent privacy risks, including unauthorized access to devices or accounts. The practice takes reasonable steps to safeguard PHI but cannot guarantee absolute security.
Clients are informed of these risks prior to consenting to electronic communication.
SMS Text Messaging
SMS text messaging is used only with client consent and is limited to non-marketing, care-related communication. Mobile numbers are not sold or shared for marketing purposes.
Clients may opt out of SMS messaging at any time by replying “STOP” or by notifying the practice.
SMS consent is voluntary and not a condition of receiving treatment.
Email and Patient Portal Communication
Email and portal messaging may be used for non-urgent communication. Clients are responsible for monitoring messages sent through these channels. Providers do not guarantee immediate responses to electronic messages.
Consent and Revocation
Clients must complete an Electronic Communication & SMS Consent prior to receiving electronic communications. Consent may be revoked at any time verbally or in writing.
Revocation of electronic communication consent does not affect a client’s right to receive care.
Workforce Responsibilities
All workforce members must comply with this policy and use electronic communication only in accordance with practice procedures and applicable law. Unauthorized or inappropriate use of electronic communication may result in corrective action.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all electronic communications conducted by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Session Recording Policy
Purpose
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is committed to protecting the privacy, confidentiality, and therapeutic integrity of all clinical services. This policy establishes clear restrictions regarding the recording of sessions to safeguard clients, staff, and providers and to ensure compliance with applicable federal and Florida law.
Scope
This policy applies to all sessions and communications, including but not limited to:
- In-person sessions
- Telehealth sessions
- Telephone-based clinical encounters
This policy applies to all clients, providers, staff, contractors, and any individuals participating in services with A New Hope Psychiatric Services.
Prohibition on Recording
Audio, video, or digital recording of any session or clinical interaction is strictly prohibited unless explicitly authorized in writing by both the provider and the client.
Unauthorized recording includes, but is not limited to, recordings made via:
- smartphones
- computers
- tablets
- wearable devices
- third-party applications
- hidden or passive recording tools
Florida Law Compliance
Florida is an all-party consent state under Florida Statute § 934.03. Recording a private communication without the consent of all parties is unlawful and may expose the individual making the recording to civil and/or criminal liability, including damages and attorney’s fees.
Practice Enforcement
Violation of this policy may result in corrective action, up to and including termination of services, in accordance with the Discharge and Termination from Practice Policy.
Any unauthorized recording may not be:
- used
- disclosed
- published
- transmitted
- distributed
Unauthorized recording may also compromise the confidentiality of other clients, providers, or staff and may be addressed through appropriate legal or administrative channels.
Permitted Recording – AI Scribe Technology Only
The only exception to this policy is the practice’s approved AI scribe technology, which may be used solely with the client’s separate written consent.
Client-initiated recordings, whether for personal, legal, or third-party use, remain strictly prohibited under this policy.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services and sessions provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Good Faith Estimate (GFE) Policy
Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to ensure compliance with the No Surprises Act and applicable federal regulations by outlining the procedures for providing Good Faith Estimates (GFEs) to uninsured and self-pay clients. This policy supports transparency, protects clients from unexpected medical bills, and establishes consistent internal practices for documentation and delivery.
Policy Statement
A New Hope Psychiatric Services provides a Good Faith Estimate (GFE) to all uninsured or self-pay clients for non-emergency services when required by law.
The GFE outlines the expected out-of-pocket charges for scheduled services based on information available at the time of scheduling.
Applicability
This policy applies to:
- Uninsured clients
- Clients who elect self-pay and decline use of insurance
- Non-emergency psychiatric, psychotherapy, and psychological services
This policy does not apply to:
- Clients using insurance for services
- Emergency services
- Walk-in encounters where no scheduling occurs
Timing of GFE Delivery
A Good Faith Estimate will be provided:
- At the time a self-pay or uninsured client schedules services, or
- Upon request by the client
GFEs are delivered prior to services being rendered, in accordance with federal requirements.
Content Requirements
Each Good Faith Estimate must include:
- Practice name and identifying information
- Patient name
- Date the estimate is provided
- Payment status (Self-Pay / Uninsured)
- Description of expected services
- Itemized expected charges
- Required No Surprises Act disclosures, including:
- Statement that the GFE is not a contract
- Explanation of the $400 dispute threshold
- Information on how to dispute a bill
Flat-Fee Pricing Model
A New Hope Psychiatric Services operates under a flat-fee pricing model for self-pay services. GFEs reflect the current standard out-of-pocket rates, including but not limited to:
- Initial Psychiatric Evaluation
- Psychiatric Follow-Up / Medication Management
- Psychotherapy Services
- Psychological Evaluations
If services change materially, an updated GFE will be provided when required.
Acknowledgment of Receipt
Client acknowledgment of receipt of a GFE:
- Is optional
- Is not required for compliance
- Does not constitute acceptance, consent for treatment, or financial obligation
Optional acknowledgment may be documented electronically when available.
Documentation and Recordkeeping
- A copy of each GFE is maintained in the client’s medical record
- Delivery of the GFE is logged via the practice’s intake or scheduling system
- GFEs are retained in accordance with federal and state record retention requirements
Workforce Responsibilities
All administrative and clinical staff involved in scheduling, intake, or billing are responsible for:
- Identifying uninsured or self-pay clients
- Ensuring timely delivery of GFEs when required
- Documenting delivery appropriately
- Referring questions regarding GFEs to the Privacy Officer or Clinical Director as needed
Failure to follow this policy may result in corrective action.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
DISCHARGE / TERMINATION FROM PRACTICE POLICY
Purpose
A New Hope Psychiatric Services is committed to providing safe, ethical, and clinically appropriate mental health care. This policy establishes the circumstances under which a client may be discharged or terminated from specific services or from the practice and outlines the procedures used to ensure compliance with applicable federal and Florida law, professional standards, and patient safety requirements.
Discharge decisions are made to protect patient safety, provider integrity, staff safety, and the therapeutic environment.
General Policy Statement
Discharge or termination is not automatic and is determined on a case-by-case basis using clinical judgment, patient safety considerations, adherence to treatment, legal requirements, and operational considerations.
This list of reasons for discharge is not exhaustive. A New Hope Psychiatric Services reserves the right to discharge or terminate services when continuation of care is no longer clinically appropriate, safe, feasible, or legally permissible.
Discharge decisions are not based on retaliation for protected activity and are made solely in accordance with this policy and applicable law.
Grounds for Discharge or Termination
Clients may be discharged or terminated from services, including psychiatric, psychotherapy, and/or psychological evaluation services, for reasons including but not limited to:
- An ongoing pattern of missed, late, or canceled appointments, including three (3) missed, late, or canceled appointments, as defined in the Attendance Policy
- Financial non-compliance, including failure to pay required fees, in accordance with the Financial Policy
- Failure to follow recommended treatment plans, medical instructions, or safety requirements
- Non-adherence to medication management requirements, including failure to attend required follow-up appointments
- Clinical determination that the provider cannot safely or effectively meet the client’s treatment needs
- Inappropriate use, misuse, diversion, or non-adherence involving prescribed medications
- Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) findings, including but not limited to provider shopping, multiple pharmacies, overlapping prescriptions, undisclosed controlled substance use, or other findings that interfere with safe prescribing
- Abuse, threats, harassment, or unsafe behavior directed toward providers, staff, or other clients
- Conduct that compromises the safety, integrity, or functioning of the practice
- Provider relocation, licensure limitations, or changes in scope of practice
- Administrative or operational circumstances that make continuation of services unsafe or infeasible
Service-Specific Discharge
Discharge may apply to specific services rather than the entire practice.
- If a client is discharged from psychiatric services, they will not be eligible to receive psychiatric services from any psychiatric provider within the practice
- If a client is discharged from psychotherapy services, they will not be eligible to receive psychotherapy services within the practice
- If a client is discharged from psychological evaluation services, those services will no longer be provided
Clients may continue receiving other services within the practice only if not discharged from those services and only with clinical and administrative approval.
Discharge from one service does not automatically result in discharge from all services unless clinically or administratively indicated.
Medication Management During Discharge
When clinically appropriate and legally permissible, medication continuity may be provided as follows:
- Up to ninety (90) days of non-controlled medications
- Up to thirty (30) days of controlled substances only when all of the following conditions are met:
- The client has attended recent follow-up appointments
- No safety concerns are present
- No concerning PDMP findings exist
- No evidence of misuse, diversion, or non-adherence
- Continued prescribing is clinically appropriate and lawful
Medication continuation is not guaranteed and may be limited or withheld when patient safety cannot be ensured.
Emergency and Safety Situations
In situations involving immediate safety concerns, threats, unlawful behavior, or risk of harm, discharge may be effective immediately.
In such cases, emergency resources will be provided, and appropriate documentation will be completed.
Notification Process
Clients will be notified of discharge or termination in writing.
Notification may be delivered via:
- Patient portal
- Email on file
- USPS mail to the last known address
Notice is considered delivered when sent using any of the above methods.
The notice will include:
- The reason for discharge (when appropriate)
- The effective date of discharge
- Information regarding medication transition (if applicable)
- Referral resources and emergency contact information (e.g., 988, 911)
Continuity of Care and Referrals
When appropriate, clients will be provided with:
- A reasonable transition period
- Referral resources for psychiatric providers, therapists, psychological services, or higher levels of care
- Emergency and crisis resources
A New Hope Psychiatric Services does not guarantee availability of external providers.
Policy Availability and Updates
This policy applies to all services provided by A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically.
Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services, clients acknowledge that they have been informed of the Discharge / Termination from Practice Policy and agree to comply with its terms.
Controlled Substance Treatment Policy
The term “controlled substances” refers to medications that are regulated by federal and state law because they may carry a higher risk for misuse, dependence, addiction, or safety concerns. Drugs in this category include, but are not limited to, benzodiazepines, stimulants, sedative medications, and sleeping aids.
A client may be prescribed a controlled substance as part of a treatment plan with a provider at A New Hope Psychiatric Services (ANHPS). This may include, but is not limited to, benzodiazepines, stimulants, or sedative/sleeping medications, based on the provider’s clinical assessment of the client’s needs. If a client is already taking a controlled substance at the time they seek care, the provider will evaluate the necessity of continuing, adjusting, tapering, or discontinuing the medication as part of treatment. The final decision will be made in accordance with clinical safety standards, provider judgment, best practices, and the client’s overall mental health goals.
This policy explains important risks and treatment guidelines associated with controlled substances. Clients receiving controlled-substance treatment are expected to comply with these terms as part of their treatment plan.
Understand and Acknowledge the Risks
Addiction and Dependency Risks: Medications prescribed under the category of controlled substances carry inherent risks of addiction, physical dependence, tolerance, withdrawal, and misuse. These medications can lead to substance use disorders if misused. Controlled substances may also cause sedation, confusion, impaired memory, poor judgment, delayed reaction time, and impaired coordination, which could increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents and falls. Clients should report any concerns or adverse effects to their provider immediately.
Mixing with Alcohol: Mixing controlled substances, particularly benzodiazepines and sedative/sleeping medications, with alcohol is extremely dangerous and significantly increases the risk of severe sedation, respiratory depression, overdose, or death. Clients are expected to avoid alcohol consumption while using these medications and to inform their provider of any alcohol use during treatment.
Mixing with Other Medications: Combining controlled substances with other medications, especially opioids, including but not limited to buprenorphine, methadone, morphine, Percocet, oxycodone, fentanyl, or other sedatives, may pose a serious risk of overdose, respiratory depression, and death. Clients are expected to inform their provider of all medications, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, herbal supplements, or any other substances they are currently taking.
Legal Restrictions and Compliance: The prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances are strictly regulated by state and federal laws. Clients must comply with all legal and regulatory requirements and must not engage in any illegal activity related to obtaining, using, sharing, selling, or distributing controlled substances. Failure to comply with controlled-substance requirements may result in increased monitoring, tapering, discontinuation of controlled-substance treatment, referral to a higher level of care or specialty provider, or discharge from controlled-substance management when clinically and legally appropriate.
Refill Limitations and Prescription Frequency: Controlled substances are subject to strict refill and prescription limitations. Clients are expected to follow the prescribed schedule and not request early refills. Controlled substances will not be refilled early unless the provider determines that an exception is clinically and legally appropriate. Prescription timing is based on the medication prescribed, quantity dispensed, directions for use, legal requirements, pharmacy or payer requirements, and provider clinical judgment. Certain controlled substances, including stimulant medications, have stricter legal prescribing rules and may not be refilled in the same manner as routine medications. These medications may require a new prescription or separate prescriptions when legally and clinically appropriate.
Treatment Agreement Expectations
Medication Adherence: Clients are expected to take medications exactly as prescribed, including the specified dose and frequency. Clients are not permitted to increase the dose or frequency of medication on their own. Clients must not take medications prescribed for others or share their medications with anyone.
Monitoring Use: Clients are expected to track medication usage and effectiveness and report any changes in condition, side effects, or concerns to their provider during scheduled appointments. Clients may be required to participate in monitoring of their health status, including drug screenings, physical exams, vital signs, or other monitoring requested by the provider. Providers may review Florida’s Prescription Drug Monitoring Program, also known as E-FORCSE, or other legally available prescription monitoring information before and during controlled-substance treatment.
Refill Restrictions: If a client misuses medication by taking more than prescribed, taking it differently than instructed, or running out early, the client may not be eligible to obtain a refill until the prescribed time frame has passed. Misuse of prescribed medication may result in increased monitoring, shorter prescription duration, tapering, discontinuation of the medication, or changes to the treatment plan.
Temporary Use of Medications: Except for stimulants when clinically appropriate, controlled substances are generally prescribed on a temporary basis and are not intended for indefinite use. A New Hope Psychiatric Services does not prescribe benzodiazepines as routine long-term maintenance treatment. If a benzodiazepine is prescribed for a new or acute concern, it is intended for short-term use and generally should not exceed thirty (30) total days in a rolling twelve-month period unless the provider determines that a different plan is clinically necessary for safety.
Chronic Controlled Substance Use: If a client enters care already taking benzodiazepines or another controlled substance on a chronic basis, the provider will evaluate the risks and benefits of continuing the medication. The clinical goal may include a safe and appropriate taper, dose reduction, transition to safer alternatives, or discontinuation when clinically appropriate. Tapering decisions are individualized and based on client safety, dose, duration of use, medical history, withdrawal risk, clinical stability, and provider judgment.
Consultation Before Discontinuation: Clients should consult with their provider before discontinuing any medication. Abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines or other controlled substances after long-term use can cause dangerous withdrawal symptoms, including tremors, flu-like symptoms, rebound anxiety, or seizures. Stimulant withdrawal can cause depression, fatigue, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Clients should follow a gradual tapering plan as recommended by their provider to safely discontinue medication, if necessary.
Regular Appointments and Treatment Compliance: Clients are expected to attend all scheduled appointments and follow the treatment recommendations provided by their provider. Regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor response to medication, adjust dosages, review risks, and ensure that the treatment plan remains appropriate. Missed, canceled, or overdue appointments may delay or prevent refills, dose changes, or continuation of controlled-substance treatment.
Drug Testing and Compliance: Clients may be required to provide urine samples or other forms of drug testing, as requested, to monitor for the presence of controlled substances, non-prescribed substances, or illicit drugs during the course of treatment. Refusal to complete requested drug testing, inconsistent drug testing results, or evidence of illicit or non-prescribed substance use may result in increased monitoring, shorter prescription duration, tapering, discontinuation of controlled-substance treatment, referral to a higher level of care or specialty provider, or discharge from controlled-substance management when clinically and legally appropriate.
Dose Adjustments: Medication doses may only be adjusted during scheduled appointments and will not be modified over the phone, through portal messages, or between appointments unless the provider determines that an exception is clinically necessary. Any changes to medication will be carefully considered by the provider.
Comprehensive Treatment Plan: Medication alone is often insufficient to manage a client’s condition. Clients may be expected to engage in therapy, counseling, lifestyle changes, coping strategies, or other treatment recommendations as advised by the provider. Medication is only one part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Medication Security and Storage: Clients are responsible for securely storing medications to prevent misuse or access by others. Clients must not sell, share, trade, or give medication to anyone for any reason. Controlled substances should be stored in a locked and secure location when possible, especially to prevent access by children or others.
Lost, Stolen, Damaged, or Misplaced Medication: Controlled substances reported as lost, stolen, damaged, misplaced, discarded, or otherwise unavailable are not automatically replaced. The provider may deny replacement, require additional documentation, require earlier follow-up, require drug testing, shorten prescription duration, or modify, taper, or discontinue controlled-substance treatment when clinically appropriate.
Pharmacy Selection and Changes: Controlled substances should be sent to a consistent pharmacy whenever possible. Clients are expected to verify pharmacy availability before requesting that a controlled-substance prescription be sent. Pharmacy changes are limited and may require confirmation that the original prescription was canceled and not filled before a new prescription can be issued. Repeated pharmacy changes may raise safety, diversion, or compliance concerns and may result in denial of the request, increased monitoring, or reassessment of whether controlled-substance treatment remains appropriate.
No Additional Prescriptions: Clients must not obtain controlled substances from other healthcare providers, pharmacies, or alternative sources without notifying their provider at ANHPS. If another provider prescribes a controlled substance, the client must inform their ANHPS provider immediately. Failure to disclose controlled substances prescribed elsewhere may affect whether ANHPS can safely continue controlled-substance treatment.
Termination or Modification of Controlled Substance Treatment
If the provider determines that the prescribed medication is causing more harm than benefit, is no longer clinically appropriate, or cannot be safely continued, the provider may modify, taper, or discontinue the medication. Failure to follow any part of this policy may result in increased monitoring, shorter prescription duration, denial of early refill requests, tapering, discontinuation of controlled substances, referral to a higher level of care or specialty provider, or discharge from controlled-substance management when clinically and legally appropriate.
ANHPS will make reasonable efforts to avoid unsafe abrupt discontinuation when tapering is medically necessary. Illegal, unsafe, threatening, fraudulent, or unethical behavior regarding controlled substances may result in termination of controlled-substance treatment, discharge from the practice when legally appropriate, and/or reporting to appropriate authorities if required or permitted by law.
Policy Availability and Updates
This Controlled Substance Treatment Policy is made available electronically through A New Hope Psychiatric Services’ website, online intake forms, patient portal, or other approved electronic platform.
This policy applies to clients receiving or requesting controlled-substance treatment through A New Hope Psychiatric Services and may be updated periodically to reflect changes in clinical standards, practice policies, legal requirements, payer requirements, pharmacy requirements, or safety procedures.
Continued controlled-substance prescribing may require review and acknowledgment of the most current version of this policy or the Controlled Substance Treatment Consent & Agreement.
Acknowledgment
By receiving services at A New Hope Psychiatric Services and/or requesting controlled-substance treatment, clients acknowledge that they have been informed of this Controlled Substance Treatment Policy and agree to comply with its terms.
Clients understand that controlled-substance prescribing is not guaranteed and remains subject to provider clinical judgment, safety considerations, legal requirements, pharmacy requirements, payer requirements, and ongoing monitoring.