Is a Psychiatrist Near You Needed for a Prescription?

Prior to COVID-19 many psychiatric medications could not be prescribed over the phone or through telehealth. Now many effective medications can  be prescribed through virtual appointments.

Medicines are grouped by the government in schedules based on how risky they can be and how helpful they are. These classification groups help decide who can give the medicine, who can get it, and how it can be prescribed. For example, medications that have a higher risk when misused or present a higher risk of dependence are more heavily regulated.

During COVID-19, the government made a special exceptions to allow people get some important medicines by talking to a doctor online or on the phone. Before this, patients most often had to see a doctor in person to get these kinds of medicines. This change helped people who couldn’t easily travel or leave their homes. Medicines for problems like ADHD, anxiety, and addiction could now be given by a doctor online. After COVID, the government decided to keep these easier rules until the end of 2025. They are now working on making some of these changes permanent while keeping patients safe.

"The cause for concern is reasonable. Prescription medications should be taken seriously and offered with appropriate care, and expertise. Ensuring patient safety is paramount and providing the best opportunity for good outcomes requires more than just a quick 'script. We also know that virtual care - when conducted thoroughly - can be just as appropriate and effective as an in-person visit for many patients. At Therapath we are direct with our patients when we feel they require in-person care. Our thorough intake appointments with each new patient sets the stage for personalized and optimized treatment planning," shares Arif Noorbaksh MD, founder of Therapath Mental Health.

If you are worried about access to prescriptions that's understandable. Bring it up your concerns with your provider during your appointment. Asking questions about your care is something that psychiatrists and therapists highly encourage.

Considerations When Choosing Between Virtual and In-Person Psychiatry Care

Access to expertise. If you are in a rural or remote area you may have more limited options. Virtual care can option you to a wider range of doctors and therapists who specialize in treating your condition.

Comfort and Confidentiality. While all providers offering telehealth in an ethical and professional manner will offer you a secure video connection, ensuring you can take the video appointment from a private space where you feel confident your appointment remains secure is important.

Symptom Severity. While a significant number of mental health concerns can be treated virtually, those with higher acuity, or severe impairment, may need a level of care best found in-person.

How Fast You Can Get An Appointment. Waiting lists for specialized providers, especially for in-office visits, can be long. Virtual care options often provide a faster time-to-care with more near-term appointment availability.

Your Location Matters. Often provider licensure and insurance coverage is state-specific. Even if you are attending a virtual appointment, it is important to be physically present in the same state as your provider is licensed. Be sure to let your doctor and therapist known if you have upcoming travel to make arrangements while you are away.

Final Takeaway

When your are seeking mental healthcare the most important step is to reach out. The choice to pursue virtual or in-office appointments is something you can decide with support. You don't have to figure it out all alone. The best next step is to reach out via phone or email and start the process.