New Jersey state regulations for controlled substances and ADHD care differ from those of other states. To keep things simple, this article covers everything you need to know if you’ve been prescribed a Schedule II stimulant medication in New Jersey, such as generic or brand-name Vyvanse, Adderall, or Ritalin.
What do I need to know as a new ADHD patient living in New Jersey?
If you are a new patient starting your ADHD care journey with Circle Medical on or after June 1st, 2026, there are typically 3 appointments to complete. Your first two appointments are typically virtual, but the third appointment must be in-person.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical ADHD intake process for New Jersey patients looking to start ADHD care with Circle Medical:
"ADHD Initial intake" appointment
"ADHD Comprehensive health assessment"
"In-person ADHD Diagnosis and treatment" appointment
A Schedule II stimulant may be prescribed for the first time at your “In-Person ADHD Diagnosis and Treatment” appointment. This appointment fulfills New Jersey’s in-person examination requirement.
This means that your next in-person appointment must be within 12 months of starting treatment. No additional in-person appointments are needed until that time.
Important reminders for ADHD patients living in New Jersey
Your “In-person ADHD Diagnosis and treatment” appointment is the required in-person appointment completed as part of the intake process.
After your “In-person ADHD Diagnosis and treatment” appointment, Circle Medical’s clinical protocols require monthly follow-up appointments for patients who are prescribed a Schedule II controlled substance. These follow-ups may be virtual or in-person.
You must complete another in-person appointment within 12 months of your last in-person appointment at which a controlled substance was prescribed.
The provider prescribing your controlled substance medication must be your primary care provider (PCP)
Your in-person appointments must be completed with the same PCP who you see virtually for your monthly ADHD follow-up appointments.
FAQs about receiving ADHD care in New Jersey
Where can I complete my in-person appointments?
In-person appointments are currently available at our Marlton and Short Hills locations.
Which providers can I see for my ADHD care?
Nurse Practitioners (NP), doctors (MD or DO), or Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioners (PMHNP) can offer ADHD care, depending on provider availability and clinical appropriateness.
How do I know if my medication requires me to be seen in person?
In-person requirements may vary depending on the medication prescribed and your treatment plan.
The requirements described in this article apply to Schedule II stimulant medications used to treat ADHD, including generic and brand-name Vyvanse, Adderall, and Ritalin.
Other Schedule II controlled substances may be subject to different or more frequent in-person requirements.
Can I receive my prescription across state lines?
Due to state and federal prescribing requirements and Circle Medical policy, prescriptions for New Jersey Schedule II stimulant medications can only be issued and filled in New Jersey - not across state lines. Each pharmacy makes its own decision about whether to fill a prescription.
Need help finding a provider or pharmacy? Start a chat with our Care Team via our HIPAA-compliant mobile app or web portal.
Are there exceptions or special circumstances?
These requirements generally cannot be waived by Circle Medical or your provider. If you believe you have special circumstances, please discuss them directly with your provider during an appointment.
What happens if I miss an in-person appointment?
If you miss an in-person appointment, please reschedule as soon as possible to avoid an interruption in your care. For additional support, chat with our Care Team via our HIPAA-compliant mobile app or web portal.
If I have been virtually visiting my provider, can I continue to do so?
Yes. You can continue seeing your provider virtually, as long as you complete an in-person appointment at least once every 12 months to stay compliant with state regulations.
Remember: The provider prescribing your controlled substance medication must be your PCP.
What if my provider isn't available for an in-person appointment when I'm due for one?
You'll need to complete your in-person appointment with an available provider so that your care isn't interrupted.
If your current PCP is unavailable, please schedule your in-person appointment with another available provider. Your new provider will have access to your clinical notes, treatment history, and care plan. Your new provider will become the provider you see for your ongoing virtual follow-up appointments.
If your next appointment is in-person, book it with an available provider.
If your next appointment is virtual, you'll first need an in-person appointment with an available provider, then continue virtual follow-ups with them.
If you are unable to find an in-person appointment or still need help, contact our Care Team through the chat feature on our HIPAA-compliant mobile app or web portal. The Care Team can help determine the appropriate next steps to avoid an interruption in your care.