Helping patients with drug use disorders
One out of ten adults in Washington needs treatment for a drug use disorder, and for more than half of them, the drug of choice is alcohol. This year, Washington State Legislature has authorized an unprecedented effort to expand treatment options for those who need them without waiting and, where individuals qualify, at little or no cost. But providers need to help. Studies show that when health professionals ask their patients about their alcohol/drug use and explain how misuse affects their health and well-being, people with drug use disorders are much more likely to seek help. Get the necessary care to your patients. Please consider using any of the tools on this site that will help you address your patient need.
Getting a 12 month history of
prescriptions, emergency and other services
In order to provide a comprehensive medical history for you regarding your patients, HRSA has developed a rolling 12-month client medical profile. It includes prescriptions, emergency room usage and other services. To obtain a profile:
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Fax patients signed release form to 360-725-1328 Attn: Carolyn Geimer. You may use your own release or the DSHS release.
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Include on the request: your return fax number with area code, client name and PIC, and office telephone number.
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Requests are processed Monday through Friday, 8am to 5pm.
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Profiles will be sent to you within 24-48 hrs and the client will be sent notification to their last known address.
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What do these medical profiles look like?
12 Month Prescription Profile Sample 12 Month ER Services Profile Sample 12 Month Other Services Profile Sample
Chemical Dependency Treatment
Patients who need alcohol/drug treatment should be referred to the Alcohol/Drug Helpline to arrange for an assessment, to locate a treatment agency, and to verify that they are eligible for state-funded services.
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Chemical Dependency Treatment 24-Hour Referral: 1-800-562-1240
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Patients can also be referred by contacting the county Regional Treatment Administrator Monday-Friday from 8-5
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For help screening patients in need of alcohol/drug treatment, providers can access a Screening and Referral Pocket Card
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Use this link for additional information about chemical dependency
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For additional information about chemical dependency and support services for pregnant women go to: http://www.dshs.wa.gov/pdf/hrsa/dasa/PregnantWomenGuide.pdf
Treatment for Chronic Pain
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Chronic Pain Agreement is a way for providers and patients to agree on the ground rules as they set out to address a patient's chronic pain. Use this form to improve patient understanding and compliance with prescription program.
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Disclosure form in Word and PDF allows providers to access their patient drug treatment and screening records. Without disclosure, providers may find themselves working in the dark.
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Opioid Dosing Guideline The guidelines are to assist the practitioner in the prescribing opioids in a safe and effective manner. These were developed by the Interagency Workgroup on Practice Guidelines (the Department of Corrections, Department of Health, Department of Labor and Industries, Department of Social and Health Services, and Health Care Authority) in collaboration with actively practicing physicians who specialize in pain management. This guideline does not apply to the treatment of cancer pain or end-of-life (hospice) care.
You are also urged to consult the Agency Medical Directors' Group Web site for additional information.
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FREE Online CME/CE credits available ~ Expires April 30, 2010
Curb Abuse and Misuse of Medical Resources
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Patient Review and Coordination Program limits patients to one provider, one pharmacy, and one hospital for emergency care. Phone: 1-800-794-4360 extension 51780
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Narcotic Review prior authorization is a process that will require your review of a patient's prescription history before authorization. You, not the agency, determine the medical necessity of the narcotic. You are also able to see what other doctors and ERs are prescribing. A pilot program on drug utilization experienced a 30% reduction in clients with 10 or more scripts per month. To request information or to refer patients for Prior Authorization, Fax (360) 725-2122.
Case Management Resources for Aging and Disabled
The Aging and Disability Services Administration assists children and adults with developmental delays or disabilities, cognitive impairment, chronic illness and related functional disabilities to gain access to needed services and supports by managing a system of long-term care and supportive services that are high quality, cost effective, and responsive to individual needs and preferences.
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Aging and Disability Services Administration Providers can access a case manager through 1-800-422-3263. More details are at http://www.aasa.dshs.wa.gov/Resources/rcshelp.htm . A nearby site includes helpful brochures, booklets, handbooks, and wallet cards at http://www.aasa.dshs.wa.gov/Library/publications/
For patients with suspected dual disorders involving chemical dependency and mental illness, referrals can be made to providers in the counties listed below:
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Yakima County: Central Washington Comprehensive Mental Health
Referrals can be made by calling Paul Nagle-McNaughton at (509) 575-4084, extension 4237, Monday-Friday 9-5. -
Clark County: Integrated Mental Health/Chemical Dependency Program
Referrals can be made by calling Cindy Stevens at Lifeline Connections, (360) 397-8246 extension 7538, Monday-Friday 9-5.
For comments or questions, email