Online medication-based alcohol care usually begins with a structured intake. The goal is to give a licensed clinician enough information to assess safety and discuss an appropriate care plan.
Intake and review
An intake may cover drinking patterns, treatment goals, current medications, opioid use, health history, and other safety questions. The clinician may request clarification, laboratory testing, or an in-person evaluation.
The prescribing decision
After review, the clinician explains whether medication is appropriate. A prescription is not guaranteed. Some people need a different medication, closer monitoring, or a higher level of care.
Follow-up
Ongoing care may include medication refills, side-effect review, goal updates, and changes to the care plan. Patients should know how to contact the care team and where to go for urgent help.
For the mechanics of how a clinician reviews a request online, see how telehealth prescribing works. To compare what different levels of care cost, see the cost of online medication care and rehab. You can also review how Seriva works and the pricing before you start.
Common questions
How long does intake take? The questionnaire usually takes a few minutes. The clinician review happens after you submit, not in real time.
Will I always be prescribed medication? No. After review, some people are prescribed medication, and others are advised to seek closer monitoring or a higher level of care.
What happens at follow-up? A clinician may review side effects, adherence, and goals, and adjust the plan. You will be told how to reach the care team and where to go for urgent help.
Sources
- National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA): niaaa.nih.gov
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA): samhsa.gov