Book a Consultation
Patient Resources

Practice Policies & Procedures

At Nest Psychiatry, we’re committed to providing compassionate, ethical, and transparent psychiatric care. The following policies help create a safe and supportive treatment experience for every patient.

1. Appointments & Scheduling

  • Appointments may be scheduled online, by phone, or in person.
  • Patients are responsible for providing accurate and up-to-date contact and insurance information.
  • New patients must complete all intake paperwork prior to their first visit.
  • Telehealth services are offered in accordance with Texas state regulations.

2. Billing & Payment Policy

  • Payment is due at the time of service unless prior arrangements have been made.
  • We accept major credit/debit cards and HSA/FSA payments.
  • If insurance is accepted:
    • Patients are responsible for co-pays, deductibles, and non-covered services.
    • Coverage verification is not a guarantee of payment.
  • Self-pay rates are available upon request.
  • Outstanding balances may result in collection activity or interruption of services.

3. Late Cancellation & No-Show Policy

  • At least 24 hours’ notice is required to cancel or reschedule an appointment.
  • Late cancellations or missed appointments may result in a fee (e.g., $50–$150).
  • Repeated no-shows may lead to discharge from the practice.

4. HIPAA & Privacy Policy

We comply with HIPAA to protect your health information.

  • Patient information is kept confidential and securely stored.
  • Information is only shared:
    • With patient authorization
    • For treatment, payment, and healthcare operations
    • When required by law (e.g., safety concerns, abuse reporting)
  • Patients may request access to or copies of their medical records.
  • Telehealth sessions are conducted using secure, compliant platforms.

5. Controlled Substances Policy (ADHD Medications, Stimulants, Benzodiazepines)

Due to federal and Texas regulations, strict guidelines apply to prescribing controlled substances such as stimulants and benzodiazepines.

General Requirements

  • A comprehensive evaluation is required before prescribing.
  • Patients may be required to sign a Controlled Substance Agreement.
  • Prescriptions are issued at the provider’s discretion and may be limited in quantity.

Monitoring & Safety

  • Periodic follow-up visits are required.
  • Random or scheduled urine drug screens (UDS) may be required.
  • Prescription history will be reviewed through the Texas Prescription Monitoring Program.

Refills

  • No early refills for lost or stolen medications.
  • Refill requests must be made during regular business hours with adequate notice (typically 3–5 business days).

Prohibited Practices

  • Sharing or selling medication is strictly prohibited.
  • Obtaining controlled substances from multiple providers without disclosure may result in termination.

6. Laboratory Testing Policy

  • Patients prescribed certain medications (including stimulants and benzodiazepines) may be required to complete lab testing.
  • This may include:
    • Urine drug screening
    • Blood work (if clinically indicated)
  • Failure to complete required labs may result in withholding or discontinuation of prescriptions.
  • Patients are responsible for lab costs unless covered by insurance.

7. Patient Responsibilities

Patients agree to:

  • Provide accurate medical history and medication information
  • Follow treatment recommendations
  • Use medications only as prescribed
  • Maintain respectful behavior toward staff and providers

8. Termination of Patient Relationship

A patient may be discharged from the practice for reasons including, but not limited to:

  • Repeated missed appointments or late cancellations
  • Non-compliance with treatment or required labs
  • Misuse or diversion of prescribed medications
  • Abusive, threatening, or inappropriate behavior
  • Failure to pay outstanding balances

Termination Process

  • Written notice will be provided (typically 30 days).
  • Emergency care may be provided during the transition period.
  • Patients will be encouraged to establish care with another provider.
  • Medical records will be transferred upon signed authorization.

9. Emergency Policy

  • This practice does not provide emergency services.
  • In case of an emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
  • For mental health crises, contact the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

Not sure which pathway fits you?

We’ll help you determine the best fit for your goals and your story.

Get in Touch