Medication Safety & Responsible Prescribing
Safe, individualized psychiatric care begins with a thoughtful evaluation — not assumptions.
Philosophy
Our Philosophy
Many mental health conditions share similar symptoms.
- Difficulty focusing does not always mean ADHD.
- Anxiety may have many contributing factors.
- Fatigue is not always depression.
Sleep problems, trauma, hormonal changes, medical conditions, substance use, stress, and other factors can all influence mental health. Rather than rushing to prescribe medication, we take time to understand the complete clinical picture so treatment decisions are based on accurate assessment and individualized care.
Our Approach to Controlled Medications
Certain psychiatric medications — including stimulant medications used to treat ADHD and some anti-anxiety medications — are classified as controlled substances. These medications can be highly effective for appropriate patients, but they also require careful evaluation, ongoing monitoring, and responsible prescribing.
Controlled medications are prescribed only when clinically appropriate and after a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation. Receiving an evaluation or scheduling an appointment does not guarantee that a controlled medication — or any medication — will be prescribed.
Treatment recommendations are based on:
- Clinical history
- Diagnostic findings
- Functional impairment
- Current symptoms
- Safety considerations
- Medical history
- Previous treatment response
- Evidence-based guidelines
- State and federal regulations
Adult ADHD Evaluations
ADHD is a complex neurodevelopmental condition that requires careful assessment. Many medical conditions, psychiatric conditions, sleep disorders, stress, trauma, anxiety, depression, hormonal changes, and executive functioning difficulties can produce symptoms similar to ADHD.
S. Jackson Psychiatry uses a comprehensive evaluation process that may include:
- Clinical interview
- Diagnostic screening tools
- Functional assessment
- Review of previous treatment history
- Computerized attention testing when clinically appropriate
- Differential diagnosis
The goal is to achieve diagnostic clarity before treatment decisions are made.
Policies & Expectations
What to Expect
Patients Receiving Controlled Medications May Be Asked To
- Attend regular follow-up appointments.
- Use one pharmacy whenever possible.
- Inform the practice of medication changes prescribed by other providers.
- Participate in Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) review as required by law.
- Complete urine drug screening when clinically appropriate.
- Participate in additional assessments when medically indicated.
- Notify the office promptly of significant medication concerns or side effects.
Prescription Monitoring
S. Jackson Psychiatry routinely reviews the Georgia Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) as required and permitted by law. This helps promote safe prescribing practices, identify potential medication interactions, and support responsible patient care.
Medication Refills
- Medication refills are managed during scheduled follow-up appointments whenever possible.
- Controlled medication refill requests require clinical review.
- Medication changes, dosage adjustments, and refill requests are evaluated individually based on clinical circumstances.
- Patients are encouraged to request refills several business days before their medication supply is exhausted.
Safe Medication Practices
Patients are encouraged to:
- Take medications exactly as prescribed.
- Store medications securely.
- Never share medications with another person.
- Inform the provider of new medical conditions or medications.
- Contact the office regarding significant side effects or concerns.
- Maintain regular follow-up appointments.
Our Commitment
Our commitment is to provide safe, ethical, evidence-based psychiatric care. Treatment recommendations may include:
- Medication Management
- Therapy
- Behavioral strategies
- Lifestyle recommendations
- Educational resources
- The Clarity Library™
- Additional diagnostic testing
- Referral to other specialists when appropriate
Every treatment plan is individualized because every patient is unique.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Our Promise
Understanding Before Treatment.
At S. Jackson Psychiatry, we believe the best treatment begins with understanding. Our goal is not simply to prescribe medication — it is to provide thoughtful evaluations, accurate diagnoses, individualized treatment plans, and compassionate, evidence-based psychiatric care.
Questions about our medication policies?
We're happy to discuss our approach during your appointment and answer any questions you may have about the evaluation process or treatment recommendations.
Schedule an Appointment