Elevated Medicine

Elevated Medicine is a physician-owned practice in Durango, Colorado, that runs a ketamine clinic for mental health alongside regenerative treatments for joint and tendon injuries. Ketamine is given by IV infusion or intramuscular injection, in person at the practice on Main Avenue.

Approach

The clinic gives ketamine only to patients who are actively working with a mental health professional, stays in direct contact with local therapists during treatment, and encourages an integration session with the therapist within three to four days. An infusion runs for about 45 minutes. The team includes Dr Jon Vivolo, an emergency physician with fellowships in ultrasonography and precision medicine, two physician assistants, a registered nurse and a critical care paramedic.

Who it is for

The clinic lists PTSD, anxiety, OCD, treatment-resistant depression and end-of-life support. Referrals are accepted from physicians and licensed mental health professionals, and a primary care doctor’s referral is not needed. Patients without a therapist can be referred to one. People with psychosis are not suitable, the clinic says.

Practical details

A single session costs $425 and a recommended package of six costs $2,400. The first consultation and medical screening are free. Sliding-scale discounts exist, with 15% off for veterans, teachers, healthcare workers and first responders, and financing is available. Couples treatment and in-home infusions are also offered. The practice is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Care and safety

Intake covers a consultation, medical history and assessment, a psychological assessment and consent forms. High blood pressure or heart or lung problems need the physician’s clearance first. Only two patients are treated at once, each infusion is monitored on HIPAA-compliant video, and patients fast from solid food and milk for six hours beforehand. Patients stay conscious, and the clinic expects thinking to clear within 15 minutes of the infusion ending.