What Information Should You Have Before Referring Someone to Addiction Treatment?

When a healthcare provider, attorney, employer, therapist, or family member recognizes that someone may need addiction treatment, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming. Many people want to help, but they are unsure what information is needed before contacting a treatment provider.

The good news is that you do not need to have every detail figured out before reaching out. Treatment professionals are available to help guide the process and determine the appropriate next steps.

However, having some basic information prepared can make the referral process smoother, help treatment providers better understand the individual’s needs, and ensure the person receives the appropriate level of care. Referral partners can also access additional tools and guidance through the Resource Hub for Trusted Professionals.

Whether you are referring someone for residential treatment, a partial hospitalization program (PHP), intensive outpatient program (IOP), or another service, the following information can help begin the conversation.

1. Basic Information About the Individual

The first step is gathering basic identifying and contact information.

Helpful information may include:

1. Full name
2. Date of birth
3. Preferred contact information
4. Current location
5. Emergency contact information
6. Preferred communication method

If you are a professional referral source, confirm that the individual is aware of the referral and understands what information can be shared.

Because substance use treatment involves highly protected health information, communication and consent must be handled carefully. Treatment providers can explain what releases or authorizations may be needed before discussing specific details.

2. Current Substance Use Information

Understanding the person’s substance use history helps treatment providers determine what type of support may be appropriate.

Important details may include:

1. Substances currently being used - see addictions we treat
2. How frequently substances are used
3. Amount and duration of use
4. Date of last use
5. History of withdrawal symptoms
6. Previous attempts to stop or reduce use

It can also be helpful to understand how substance use is affecting daily life, including:

1. Relationships
2. Employment
3. Physical health
4. Mental health
5. Legal concerns
6. Financial stability

This information does not need to be perfect. Even general details can help treatment professionals begin evaluating options.

3. Current Safety Concerns

Before making a referral, it is important to consider immediate safety needs.

Questions to consider include:

1. Is the individual currently intoxicated?
2. Are they experiencing withdrawal symptoms?
3. Have they expressed thoughts of harming themselves or others?
4. Are there medical concerns that require immediate attention?
5. Is their current living environment safe?

Some individuals may require medical detoxification or a higher level of medical support before entering addiction treatment.

A treatment provider can help determine the appropriate next step based on the situation.

4. Mental Health and Emotional Health History

Substance use and emotional health are often closely connected. Understanding a person’s mental health history can help treatment providers develop a more complete picture of their needs.

Relevant information may include:

1. Previous mental health diagnoses
2. Current mental health symptoms
3. History of trauma or significant life experiences
4. Current medications
5. Previous counseling or psychiatric care
6. History of emotional or behavioral challenges

A comprehensive approach considers the whole person—not only their substance use.

5. Medical Information

Some medical information may be needed to determine whether a program can safely meet the individual’s needs.

Helpful details include:

1. Current medical conditions
2. Current medications
3. Allergies
4. Recent hospitalizations
5. History of withdrawal complications
6. Primary healthcare provider information

Treatment providers may request additional documentation, such as medical records or medication lists, depending on the situation.

6. Insurance and Payment Information

Understanding available financial resources early can help identify treatment options.

Information to gather may include:

1. Insurance provider
2. Insurance member information
3. Employer-sponsored benefits
4. Self-pay considerations
5. Other available resources

Many treatment providers have admissions teams who can verify benefits and explain financial options.

It is helpful to begin this process early because coverage details and authorization requirements can vary.

7. Previous Treatment History

Knowing what has or has not worked in the past can help guide recommendations.

Consider gathering information about:

1. Previous addiction treatment programs
2. Levels of care completed
3. Length of previous treatment
4. Recovery supports used
5. Reasons treatment ended
6. Periods of successful recovery

Previous experiences can provide valuable insight into what type of structure and support may be most beneficial moving forward.

8. The Person’s Goals and Motivation for Treatment

While professionals and loved ones often recognize the need for treatment before the individual does, understanding the person’s perspective is important.

Consider:

1. Are they interested in treatment?
2. What concerns do they have?
3. What changes do they want to make?
4. What barriers are preventing them from seeking help?

Someone may not be fully ready for treatment, but having an open conversation and providing resources can be an important first step.

9. Legal, Employment, or Family Considerations

Certain circumstances may affect treatment planning.

Examples include:

1. Court involvement
2. Probation requirements
3. Child custody concerns
4. Employment responsibilities
5. Family obligations
6. Upcoming legal deadlines

For attorneys, probation officers, and other professionals, providing relevant documentation early can help treatment providers better support the individual’s needs. You can find out more by visiting our Attorney Resource Hub.

Referral Checklist: Information to Gather Before Calling Treatment

Before contacting an addiction treatment provider, it may be helpful to have:

✓ Basic contact information ✓ Substance use history ✓ Date of last use ✓ Current safety concerns ✓ Medical history and medications ✓ Mental health history ✓ Insurance information ✓ Previous treatment history ✓ Current living situation ✓ Treatment goals and concerns

Remember: you do not need every answer before reaching out. Treatment professionals can help identify what additional information is needed.

What Happens After You Contact a Treatment Provider?

Once a referral is made, the admissions process typically includes:

Initial Conversation

A treatment professional gathers information about the individual’s needs, history, and goals.

Assessment and Review

The treatment team evaluates whether the program can safely and appropriately meet the person’s needs.

Level of Care Recommendation

Based on the assessment, the provider may recommend residential treatment, PHP, IOP, aftercare, or another appropriate service.

Admission Planning

If treatment is appropriate, the admissions team helps coordinate next steps, including timing, paperwork, insurance verification, and arrival details.

How Bridging the Gaps Supports Referral Partners

At Bridging the Gaps, we understand that making a referral can feel like a significant responsibility. Referral partners do not need to navigate the process alone. We are here to help and provide information on How To Refer Someone To Rehab. 

Our admissions team works with healthcare professionals, attorneys, employers, and families to answer questions, discuss treatment options, and help determine appropriate next steps.

Our continuum of care includes:

1. Residential Treatment
2. Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP)
3. Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP)
4. Aftercare Support

Through individualized treatment planning and a whole-person approach, we help individuals receive the level of support that best matches their recovery needs.

If you are considering referring someone to addiction treatment, reaching out for guidance is often the first step toward helping them access care.