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Elizabeth M. Whitehorn, Director

Provider Notice issued 04/29/09

The Role of Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) Crisis Workers During Hospital Admission

To:​

Participating Community Mental Health Providers​

Date:​ April 29, 2009​
Re:​

The Role of Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) Crisis Workers During Hospital Admission ​

This notice is being sent out on behalf of the Illinois Departments of Children and Family Services (DCFS), Healthcare and Family Services (HFS); and Human Services, Division of Mental Health (DHS/DMH).

 

The purpose of this notice is to remind providers about the guidelines for hospital selection and the role of Screening, Assessment and Support Services (SASS) crisis workers in the hospital admission process of SASS enrolled children and youth.

 

The SASS Provider Handbook (CMH-202.3) states that in the event a child or youth requires hospitalization, the SASS screening agent shall assist and educate the parent, guardian, or caregiver about their options for selecting a hospital that suits the needs of the child or youth. Information that will help facilitate this decision includes:

 

  • The diagnosis and treatment needs of the child or youth.
  • The treatment programs available in area hospitals as compared to the child or youth’s needs.
  • The proximity of the child or youth’s residence to the hospital facility.
  • The proximity of the child or youth’s home SASS provider to the hospital facility.
  • The child or youth’s hospitalization history and need for continuity of care.

During this process, all clinically appropriate hospital options should be made available to the parent, guardian, or caregiver along with any supplemental information needed by the family in order to make the best selection possible for their situation (e.g. clinical specialties, family supports, and transportation considerations). Once the family has selected a hospital, the SASS provider is expected to work with the hospital to gain admission or advise the family of the hospital’s inability to accept the child or youth and determine alternative hospital options.

 

Questions regarding this notice should be directed to the SASS Help Line at 217-557-1000.

 

Theresa A. Eagleson, Administrator
Division of Medical Programs