Module 5: Monitoring and Evaluation

Lesson 3

Learning outcome

Determine follow-up frequency for patients prescribed CDS and activities to be completed at follow-up visits.

Introduction

Patients who are prescribed CDS are followed up on a regular basis although the frequency of the visits is dependent on their condition. Follow up activities include a review of the goals and the benefits of treatment and a reassessment of safety issues related to CDS.

How often should you follow-up with patients?

Follow-up visits occur at regular interval but vary based on the patient’s condition. The following recommendations provide guidelines on the frequency of follow-up:

• Weekly:
  • When the dose is being stabilized
  • When the patient has mental health issues that are not stabilized
  • When the patient is at risk for addiction
• Once every 1-2 months:
  • Once the dose is stabilized for the patient’s condition
• Once every 3 months:
  • During long term use of a drug or substance for a clearly defined problem if the patient is at a low risk of addiction or misuse