questions about aftercare

[MissPiggy]

I have got a question for everybody out there. I am trying to set up some type of aftercare program but am not sure about where to start. I know that our substance abusers are afraid of being out on their own because of the possibility of relapse, but how about our psych pts.? They too need a resource in case of the need to change meds because of side effects, a recurrence of their symptoms, etc. so that they don't have to be readmitted for something relatively minor. If anybody has any information I'm all ears, as we need this type of program badly in this area. Does your hospital have any such programs? Thanks for any info/links you can give me.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

Both the psych places I work always set up followup care for discharged patients, and set up an appointment to see the psychiatrist within a month, or quicker. Some were set up with therapy as aftercare too....is that what you mean?

[MissPiggy]

Actually I am also a counselor intern and am looking at starting up this aftercare program from that perspective - I need info like - how long a time period after discharge are they entitled to come, is it private pay or copay or is it necessarily part of the hospitalization fees, and does the hospital have to play a part in it - other than referrals, that is. That kind of info.

[Whispera, MSN, RN]

Most insurance pays so much per year or lifetime for outpatient appointments for psych and/or chemical dependency issues. What they pay depends on the insurance company. Many psych patients have no insurance though. Hopefully while they're hospitalized a social worker works with them to get them on Medicare or Medicaid. I'm assuming you're USA-based here. Both of those agencies will pay a percentage, up to a maximum. Certainly there are patients who don't follow through with what they're supposed to do to stay well, and they end up re-hospitalized or in misery. It's all so complicated.

There are visiting psych nurses who monitor patients after discharge. This is also partially paid by insurance if the patient has it.

The hospital can play a part in all of this. I personally think it's very irresponsible if a patient is discharged without some sort of plan in place.

Lots and lots of people with psych illnesses (as well as all other illnesses) have no money for care, no insurance, and can't find their way in public programs (no transportation, unable to understand, don't believe they are ill, don't like doctors, etc.).

I think the time period allowed would be the general "as long as needed," with regular evaluations as time goes by.

I'm only able to give you very general information from what I've learned as a nurse and clinical nurse specialist in psych facilities. I don't have details on how things get paid. I hope someone here can, or maybe you can contact agencies/facilities/hospitals near where you live or go to school?