Helpful hints

So many people need referrals to IOP ( Intensive outpatient) or PHP (Partial hospitalization) programs ( In a nutshell several hour a day programs that you go to and then go back home at end of day, IOP 2-3 hours, PHP can be 5-6 hours/day).

Here are some helpful tips.

1. CALL your insurance company and get a list of in network programs ( believe me won’t take up much space on the notepad). ASK what documentation will be needed after an intake is completed to move forward. Get the NAME, (first and last) TITLE, and DIRECT phone number, or email of the person you are speaking with.
2. GET a copy of your coverage (in network and out of network) in writing.
3. Get an intake done after researching the programs to see what you and your child may feel is best fit, have options 1,2,3.
4. If your child has been under the care of a therapist and /or psychiatrist , ask them top write a letter of necessity of why a IOP/PHP is necessary. If your child has been to an ER, make copies of discharge summary and include in paperwork to the insurance company . DOCUMENT everything; who you contacted, dates and times, follow up, attempts at calls. Save and print email correspondence.
5. DO NOT GIVE UP on the system, if a door closes, choose another. Keep your child in some type of therapy until a placement can be made.
6. If things escalate, go to a local ED or crisis center.