Higher Level of Care
Higher Level of Care
Embedded Files
Higher Level of Care (HLOC) Referrals (IP / PHP / IOP):
If you have a client that needs a HLOC where the patient is not a danger to themselves or other (if so please refer to Slides 12-17 of the HLOC/Triage Presentation), please take the following steps:
Document the need for HLOC in the chart (be specific) and explain to the client that you are referring them to a HLOC and the reason.
Offer the client referrals and support in the transition as is clinically appropriate.
Continue to the Discharge Process.
It is understood that clinical judgment will be the driving force.
Sensible Care is committed to supporting therapists in this process and will rely on the clinical judgment of the therapist.
HLOC Referrals FAQ’s:
Can I refer and discharge a client from intake if they need a HLOC? Yes, if clinically you feel that is appropriate.
Can I give the client 30 days (or 2-4 sessions) to connect to a HLOC? Yes, if clinically you feel that is appropriate.
Please be aware that you CANNOT refer and continue to see someone admitted to a HLOC or see someone who self-referred and is active at a HLOC.
As a rule of thumb: a patient cannot be active at an OP LOC (mild to moderate) while also active at any HLOC (high moderate to severe).
By continuing to see someone at a HLOC, you are "double-dipping" services, and as such, you are risking issues with payors such as non-payment, recoupment, audits, etc.
In addition, for a patient to step-down to OP from a HLOC, there needs to be an actual step-down process.
Please check in with anyone in Clinical Leadership if you need assistance with the above.
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