From the Guidelines
In Florida, patients prescribed controlled substances are generally recommended to visit their healthcare providers at least once every three months (90 days). This recommendation is based on the principle of monitoring patients for medication effectiveness, potential side effects, signs of dependence, and to assess ongoing need for the controlled medication, as outlined in general medical practice guidelines, although not directly stated in the provided study 1. The study discusses the importance of developing a plan to monitor patients on psychotropic medications, including the frequency of visits, which can be applied to the context of controlled substances in Florida.
According to the study, the frequency of visits is determined by the need for dose titration, the timing of onset of side effects, and to maintain the doctor-patient-family relationship 1. For example, medications that require multiple upward adjustments in dose may require more frequent visits initially. However, during the maintenance phase, visits may not need to occur frequently, and children and adolescents with stable high-quality response and good adherence can be seen as infrequently as two to four times per year 1.
In the context of Florida's controlled substance law, the recommended frequency of provider visits is more stringent, requiring at least quarterly visits. This allows providers to properly monitor patients and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. For patients on higher-risk medications, more frequent visits may be required, such as monthly check-ins, especially during the initial treatment period or for patients with complex medical histories.
Key points to consider when determining the frequency of provider visits for patients prescribed controlled substances in Florida include:
- The type of medication and its potential risks
- The patient's medical history and compliance
- The need for dose titration and monitoring of side effects
- The importance of maintaining a doctor-patient relationship and providing ongoing support
- The requirement for quarterly visits as per Florida's controlled substance law.
From the Research
Frequency of Provider Visits for Controlled Substances in Florida
- The frequency of provider visits for patients prescribed controlled substances in Florida is not explicitly stated in the provided studies 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- However, the studies suggest that the state of Florida has implemented various measures to monitor and regulate the prescribing of controlled substances, including the Prescription Drug Monitoring Program (PDMP) 3, 5, 6.
- The PDMP is designed to track the prescribing and dispensing of controlled substances, and to identify potential cases of misuse or diversion 3, 5.
- While the studies do not provide a specific recommendation for the frequency of provider visits, they do emphasize the importance of careful monitoring and management of patients prescribed controlled substances 2, 5, 6.
- The studies also highlight the need for healthcare providers to be aware of the potential risks associated with the concomitant use of opioids and benzodiazepines, and to take steps to minimize these risks 6.
Key Findings
- The implementation of Florida's PDMP and pill mill laws was associated with modest decreases in opioid prescribing and use 5.
- The concomitant use of opioids and benzodiazepines is a significant concern, and healthcare providers should be aware of the potential risks associated with this practice 6.
- The use of PDMP data can help healthcare providers to make informed decisions about the prescribing of controlled substances, and to minimize the risks associated with their use 3, 5, 6.