Section 325.14909. Client discharge and aftercare.

(1) Within 2 weeks after discharge, there shall be entered in the client's case record a discharge summary describing the rationale for discharge, the client's treatment and rehabilitation status or condition at discharge, and the instructions given to the client about aftercare and follow-up.

(2)   Unless a client leaves voluntarily before his or her course of treatment is completed, a client shall not be discharged from a program while physically dependent upon a drug prescribed for him or her by the program physician, unless the client is given an opportunity  to  withdraw

from the drug under medical supervision and at a rate determined by the program physician or the client is referred to an outside resource which is willing to continue administering the drug.

(3)   The offer to provide withdrawal or referral to another resource shall be made both orally and in writing. If the client  refuses  such  an offer, the program shall attempt

to secure a signed statement from the client which verifies that the offer was made to, and was rejected by, the client. Failing that, a record shall be entered documenting the attempt.

(4)    If a program provides aftercare services, a written aftercare plan shall be developed in partnership with the client before the completion of treatment. The aftercare plan shall state the client's objectives for a reasonable period following discharge. The plan shall also contain a description of the services the program will provide during the aftercare period, the procedure the client is to follow in reestablishing contact with the program, especially in times of crisis, and the frequency with which the program will attempt to contact the client  for  purposes  of follow-up.

(5)   The date, method, and results of attempts at contact shall be entered in the client's case record and shall be signed by the individual who makes the entry. If follow- up information cannot be obtained, the reason for failing to obtain the information shall be entered in the client's case record.

(6)   Regardless of the method of contact utilized, the program shall protect the confidentiality of the client. Mailing envelopes  that  are identifiable as originating from the program shall not be mailed to a client. A post office box number may be used to determine  if  mail  was undeliverable and to facilitate follow-up.

(7)    If the program wishes to determine the status of clients who have been discharged, such follow-up shall be limited to methods which either assure client confidentiality or require formal written consent of the client.

History: 1981 AACS.