When psychiatric treatment faces an already overwhelming to-do list, it’s easy to see how finding time for psychiatric care for many adults struggling with focus, disorganization and procrastination can be a challenge. One of the reasons telehealth for ADHD has been a popular choice for adults everywhere in New York and New Jersey.
However, should virtual care be the right choice for you? Telehealth is a very convenient diagnostic tool, but is not always the optimal option for every individual or every patient’s situation. It outlines the pros and cons of online ADHD treatment and illustrates what you can expect from a virtual ADHD evaluation and ADHD medication management, and whether tele psychiatric services are appropriate for your needs.
What Is Telehealth ADHD Treatment?
Telehealth for ADHD means an ADHD diagnosis, evaluation or ongoing health assessment of ADHD is provided via a secure video visit rather than involving a physical visit to an office. This typically includes:
- First ADHD assessments remotely
- Discussions of symptoms, history, and daily issues for diagnosis
- Prescribing and adjusting ADHD Medications
- Follow-up appointments to check progress and side effects
- Ongoing psychiatric support without the need for in-person visits
Telehealth is one solution to many of the practical challenges that prevent adults with hectic work schedules, family commitments, or limited access to psychiatrists from receiving consistent mental health care.
The Pros of Telehealth ADHD Treatment
1. Convenience and Time Savings
Among the many benefits of telehealth for ADHD, the top one is time. No driver, no waiting room or extended time off work required. Arranging for appointments can be done in a way that fits into your schedule, like early lunch or late Friday.
Time off for adults with ADHD may make all the difference in making their appointments, especially since they often already have a lot to keep track of.
2. Easier Access to Specialists
All regions do not have a psychiatrist that specializes in diagnosing and treating adult ADHD. Telehealth increases access for patients across New York and New Jersey who can receive care from an experienced specialist without having to travel to that specialism to see them.
3. Comfort of a Familiar Environment
Speaking about troubles, work performance, relationships and mental health history might be easier in an environment you’re acquainted with. It is easier for a lot of patients to let their guard down and talk about their sensitive issues at home than to do so inside a clinical office.
4. Consistency in Ongoing Care
Treatment for ADHD involves periodic check-ups, particularly in the initial phases of treatment with medication when dosage changes might be necessary. Telehealth allows this consistency to be more easily maintained, as appointments can fit in a lunch break or quiet time at home instead of in a half day.
5. Reduced No-Shows and Missed Appointments
Being able to attend scheduled appointments has a big advantage for people because they eliminate the hurdles of travel to get to their appointments, which means they’re more likely to do so. Consistency is a good aspect in how to manage ADHD and it’s important to monitor it regularly, as this will help a person determine the best course of action for treating their ADHD.
The Cons of Telehealth ADHD Treatment
Telehealth may have many advantages, but there are several disadvantages to keep in mind.
1. Technology Requirements
If having a telehealth appointment, be prepared to have a reliable internet connection, device that has a camera and microphone function, and comfort to use video call platforms. This may be a disadvantage to those patients who are less technologically oriented or do not have access to any internet.
2. Limited Physical Examination
Medical diagnosis is not possible during telehealth visits. First, diagnosis of ADHD is the result of a thorough consultation with parents or guardian, regarding symptoms and other aspects of functioning, rather than a physical exam, but in some cases, it might be most appropriate to see the child in person for further examination, especially if there are other health issues that require evaluation.
3. Privacy at Home
Personal health conversations, in regards to mental health, should take place in a private, quiet place. Having to take session appointments at home when a roommate, family member, or co-worker is involved in the care can sometimes be difficult for patients to achieve a sense of privacy.
4. State Licensing Requirements
A psychiatrist must obtain a license in the state where the client has a current residence when meeting with a patient. This also applies to telehealth treatment for ADHD over state lines: If the provider is based in one state, the provider must be licensed in both states in order to provide services to a patient living in another state.
5. Prescription Regulations for Controlled Substances
Some ADHD medications are considered to be controlled substances and federal regulations exist regarding the prescription of these medications through telehealth. Current guidelines allow telehealth prescribing for ADHD medication, however, patients should ensure their provider advises them in all cases how the prescriptions are being handled, whether there is a required in-person visit or not.
What to Expect from a Telehealth ADHD Evaluation
Here’s a general overview of what a telehealth treatment for ADHD might involve.
Step 1: Scheduling Your Appointment
A first evaluation will be booked and often done online or via telephone. To accommodate work schedules, many practices have flexible hours such as evenings or weekends.
Step 2: Completing Pre-Appointment Paperwork
During your appointment, intake forms may be submitted that asks you for details about your past health and current symptoms, as well as you having any past mental health diagnoses or treatments. When you know in advance this information, then your appointment will run smoothly.
Step 3: The Video Evaluation
When you meet, your doctor will talk to you about the following:
- The impact of symptoms on the workplace, relationships, and life.
- Medical and psychiatric background.
- Family history of ADHD, or other related conditions
- Sleep patterns: Sleep disturbances can cause or exacerbate the symptoms of ADHD.
- Current or past medications that you are taking or have taken
This discussion helps establish your diagnosis for ADHD and treatment plan.
Step 4: Discussing Treatment Options
Your psychiatrist will talk with you about what else is recommended for treatment, based on how you feel. This can include use of ADHD medication, behavioral programming or a combination of medication and behavioral strategies that are more relevant to the symptom and outcome-based needs of the individual.
Step 5: Follow-Up Care
Treatments for ADHD don’t always happen just one time. You can obtain follow-up appointments so your psychiatrist can monitor your progress during therapy, adjust your medication dosage as needed and discuss any new concerns. They are much easier to be effectively implemented using telehealth.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Telehealth ADHD Treatment?
Telehealth ADHD treatment is typically more effective with:
- Individuals who have busy schedules and do not get a chance to make office visits
- Adults that have been evaluated once and will continue receiving ongoing ADHD medications
- Patients residing outside the optimal catchment for the specialist’s services
- Those who prefer to talk about personal issues from home
- College students who manage ADHD other than at their family doctor’s office
Who Might Benefit from In-Person Care Instead?
In-person care may be a more appropriate initial approach for a patient if:
- You have complicated medical history and a physical exam might be needed
- Doesn’t always have access to reliable smartphones/private area for video visits
- You prefer the diagnosing process to be face to face, particularly for a first appointment
An in-person assessment followed by telehealth to support the ongoing treatment may be a hybrid option in some cases.
Making the Decision: Is Telehealth Right for You?
Whether or not telehealth ADHD treatment is the right option for you will depend on your individual situation, comfort with technology, ability to access private space and the complexity of the situation. Telehealth is a convenient, efficient alternative to the inconvenience of in-office visits for many adults in New York and New Jersey who have ADHD.
Based in New York and New Jersey, Dr. John C. Shershow, M.D. specializes in treating ADHD in adults via telehealth and an in-person doctor visit, offering adults full evaluations and support with ADHD medications. When you’re not sure which is for you, booking a consultation is a superb initial step towards obtaining answers and help.
Schedule Your ADHD Consultation Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an accurate ADHD diagnosis through telehealth?
Yes. Diagnosis of ADHD is based on a comprehensive discussion of symptoms, history, and functioning in the real world, work, and relationships, and these interviews are easily done with a video.
Is telehealth ADHD medication management as effective as in-person care?
Yes, for the majority of patients. Telehealth ADHD medication management can effectively and conveniently monitor progress and adjust medication and is equally as likely to proceed with ongoing conversations about medication at the same time interval as in person, following initial diagnosis and treatment plan.
Can I get ADHD medication prescribed through a telehealth appointment?
In many cases, yes. Under current regulations, ADHD medications can often be prescribed via telehealth appointment. But note that several ADHD drugs are considered regulated substances, so be sure to check with your provider regarding prescribing practices immediately.
Do I need an in-person visit before starting telehealth ADHD treatment?
This will depend on the provider and your individual situation. Some patients go entirely through telehealth, others might have their first appointment in person and then get follow up visits through telehealth. Your psychiatrist can determine your situation the very best option.
What do I need for a telehealth ADHD appointment?
You will need a camera and microphone (a smartphone, tablet, or computer), a reliable internet connection and a private, quiet place to talk openly about symptoms and history.
Can I switch between telehealth and in-person appointments?
For many practices, they are flexible with flexibility and provide some appointments via telehealth and others face to face, based upon patient needs and preference.
Is telehealth ADHD treatment available for patients in both New York and New Jersey?
Yes, if the provider is licensed in the patient’s actual place of residence. Dr. Shershow knows that many adults require telehealth ADHD treatment and provides services in New York and New Jersey.