Previous CQI Project (2005 – 2008)
Co-Occurring Chemical Dependency/Mental Health Priority Project: Improving Screening and Monitoring of Mental Health Needs of Adults in Chemical Dependency Outpatient Clinics
Project Background
Rationale
Research indicates that individuals with substance use disorders often have co-occurring mental health disorders. According to the US Department of Health and Human Service, 43% of individuals in the community with substance use disorders (treated and untreated) also have a mental health disorder. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's (SAMHSA) Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) 42 suggests that the prevalence of mental health disorders among persons receiving substance abuse treatment is even higher.
Aim
Because too often in treatment settings co-occurring disorders are under-identified, SAMSHA recommends that all individuals presenting for substance abuse treatment be screened routinely for co-occurring mental health disorders. Recognizing that effective treatment begins with timely identification, the overall goal of this priority project was to improve the screening and monitoring of the mental health needs of adults admitted for treatment in chemical dependency outpatient clinics. Through screening and monitoring, staff were able to address their clients’ mental health problems as an integral part of their treatment planning.
Development
This CQI project was developed through a consensus building process initiated in 2004. National experts were consulted and a workgroup of local stakeholders (community providers, consumers, advocates, family members and DOHMH staff) met regularly to help with the design of the project. The workgroup selected a mental health screening instrument and constructed indicators so that programs can monitor their progress over time.
Implementation
The Division of Mental Hygiene (DMH) provided clinics with the screening instrument to be completed by all adults at or after admission, but before the initial treatment plan is written. The screening process allowed a clinician to identify adults early on in treatment who show signs and symptoms of mental health issues that may have required further attention.
Clinicians discussed the results of the screen with the client. When appropriate, staff determined whether there was a need for a mental health assessment or enhanced monitoring. Staff included the results of the mental health assessment or noted the need for monitoring in the client’s treatment plan. Clinicians made referrals for mental health services as needed.
The chemical dependency outpatient clinics that implement this project as part of Quality IMPACT also met the criteria for OASAS’ Modified Mini Screen Implementation Project. In addition, this project could be submitted as a voluntary program-specific objective for the OASAS Workscope.
back to top
Project Materials
Workbook
Screening Materials
Participating programs are required to implement the Modified Mini Screen (MMS). The MMS is a 22 item scale designed to identify persons in need of an assessment in the domains of Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders and Psychotic Disorders. The MMS is available as a clinician-administered interview:
back to top
Level I
Workbook
Project Data Sheets
back to top
Level II
Workbook
Project Data Sheets
Additional Indicator Data Sheets
Expand Screening
Audit Standard Materials
These materials are optional for Mental Health programs not participating in the “Improving Screening and Monitoring of Mental Health Needs of Adults in Chemical Dependency Outpatient Clinics” project, but fulfillingthe “Screening Adults for Co-occurring Mental Health Disorders” audit requirement which commenced July 1, 2007.
Data Sheets
back to top
