What Medication Management Actually Means
Medication management is not just receiving a prescription. It is an ongoing partnership. At Twelve Oaks Psychiatry, medication management includes the initial evaluation to identify whether medication is appropriate, the selection of the right medication type and dose for your specific situation, regular follow-up visits to assess how the medication is working, adjustments when something is not quite right, and open communication between visits when you have questions or concerns. Medication is never a one-size answer. It is a starting point that we refine with you over time.
Continuing Care from Another Provider
If you are currently taking psychiatric medication and need a new provider, whether your previous provider retired, left the area, or is no longer available, we can help you continue your care without interruption. We understand that continuity matters, especially when medication is part of what is helping you function. Call us at (954) 947-1130 to discuss a transition plan.
Conditions Managed
- ADHD
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- PTSD and trauma-related conditions
- Mood disorders
- Dual diagnosis conditions involving substance use and mental health
FAQ
FAQ
What does psychiatric medication management include?
Psychiatric medication management at Twelve Oaks Psychiatry includes evaluation to determine if medication is appropriate, medication selection based on your history and goals, prescribing and dosage adjustment, regular follow-up visits to monitor effectiveness and side effects, and ongoing communication as your needs change.
Can I transfer my medication management to Twelve Oaks Psychiatry from another provider?
Yes. If you are currently taking psychiatric medication and need to change providers, we can help you continue your care. Call us at (954) 947-1130 to discuss a transition plan. We will review your current medications and history at your first appointment.
How is medication management different from just getting a prescription?
Medication management is an ongoing partnership, not a one-time prescription. It includes an initial evaluation, selecting the right medication and dose for your situation, regular follow-up to monitor how it is working, adjustments when needed, and communication between visits. Medication is a starting point refined over time, not a fixed answer.
What conditions can be treated with medication management?
Twelve Oaks Psychiatry provides medication management for adults and adolescents living with ADHD, depression and anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma-related conditions, mood disorders, and dual diagnosis conditions involving both substance use and mental health. Care is individualized to each person’s history and goals.
Is medication management available via telehealth in Florida?
Yes. Medication management appointments are available via HIPAA-compliant telehealth across all of Florida. Same-day appointments are often available. Call (954) 947-1130 or book online.
Who provides medication management at Twelve Oaks Psychiatry?
Medication management is provided by Michael Hernandez, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner. A psychiatric nurse practitioner can evaluate, diagnose, and prescribe and adjust psychiatric medication, and provides ongoing monitoring as part of continuing care.
What happens at a medication management appointment?
A medication management visit reviews how your current treatment is working, checks for side effects, and discusses any changes in your symptoms or goals. The provider may adjust medication or dosing when needed. These visits are collaborative, and your input shapes the plan at every step.
How often are medication follow-up appointments needed?
Follow-up frequency depends on the medication and how stable your treatment is. Early in treatment, visits are usually more frequent to monitor response and side effects. Once treatment is stable, follow-ups are typically spaced further apart. Regular follow-up is a standard, expected part of safe medication management.
Why are regular follow-up visits required for psychiatric medication?
Regular follow-ups let a provider monitor how well a medication is working, catch side effects early, and adjust treatment as needs change. For some medications, ongoing visits are also part of responsible prescribing. Follow-up is not a sign of a problem; it is how medication is kept safe and effective over time.
Can medication doses be adjusted over time?
Yes. Adjusting medication is a normal part of the process. If something is not quite right, the dose or medication can be changed based on how you are responding. Twelve Oaks Psychiatry refines treatment collaboratively rather than treating the first prescription as a permanent answer.
What happens if my previous psychiatric provider is no longer available?
If your previous provider retired, left the area, or is no longer available, Twelve Oaks Psychiatry can help you continue psychiatric medication without interruption. Continuity matters, especially when medication is part of what helps you function. Call (954) 947-1130 to discuss a transition plan.
Can I keep my current medications when I transfer care?
In many cases, yes. When you transfer care, the provider reviews your current medications, history, and goals as part of continuing your treatment. Any changes are discussed with you rather than made abruptly. The aim is a smooth transition that maintains the care that is already helping you.
Can a psychiatric nurse practitioner prescribe ADHD or controlled medications?
Yes, when clinically appropriate. A psychiatric nurse practitioner can prescribe and manage psychiatric medications, including certain controlled medications, following a thorough evaluation. Prescribing decisions are always based on clinical assessment and individual needs, not requested in advance, and some medications require regular follow-up visits.
Are both stimulant and non-stimulant medications available?
Yes. For conditions such as ADHD, Twelve Oaks Psychiatry offers both stimulant and non-stimulant medication options, selected based on a person’s medical history, lifestyle, and goals. Medication choice is individualized and discussed openly as part of the treatment plan.
Can I get psychiatric medication management online in Florida?
Yes. Twelve Oaks Psychiatry offers HIPAA-compliant telehealth medication management to residents across all of Florida, including cities such as Jacksonville, Tampa, Orlando, and Lakeland. Evaluations, follow-ups, and adjustments can be handled by secure video from wherever is most convenient.
Does insurance cover medication management?
Many insurance plans cover psychiatric evaluation and medication management. Twelve Oaks Psychiatry accepts Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and more. Patients are encouraged to confirm their specific in-network benefits directly with their insurer before the first visit.
How do I start medication management at Twelve Oaks Psychiatry?
Getting started begins with an evaluation, in person in Cooper City or by telehealth anywhere in Florida, to determine whether medication is appropriate and which options fit your situation. You can call (954) 947-1130 to schedule a first appointment.
What should I do in a mental health emergency?
If you or someone else is in immediate danger or thinking about self-harm, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room. You can also call or text 988 for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. In Florida, 2-1-1 connects you to local crisis support and referrals.