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Anyone Know How to Start an IOP?
Ronny Lopez
Apr 9, 2012 8:32:00 pm
Hi everyone.  Im new to this site/forum, but not to the field.  I have worked as a Certified Counselor here in Hawaii for over 6 years now.  While I have plenty of clinical experience and a really good idea of what the program structure, education, and criteria will be like, I have almost no experience in administration and other logistics.  I have recently partnered with a psychologist, and we would like to start an IOP out of our clinic but really have no idea how.  If anyone has any feedback I would greatly appreciate it.  Thanks in advance!
grant weaver
Apr 10, 2012 12:41:40 am

 

Hi Ron,

I'm on Guam working as an addiction counselor at the Navy Hospital.  Small world!

I'm assuming you are a licensed provider recognized by insurance companies and have an National Identification Number.

First, I would buy the Living in Balance Notebooks from Hazelden to structure the instructional modules (you can modify as you see fit). 

Second, I would also take the course on Clinical Supervision for legal advice and professional expectations of staff from Dr. Powell through NAADAC.  He uses the SAMHSA TIP # 52 through this course which is good.

Third, I'd be sure to have done evaluations to determine patient's need for IOP level 2 treatment - using the ASAM PP criteria (see Applying ASAM Placement Criteria by David Mee-Lee.

 Fourth, I'd be sure to have sufficient staff to handle the load of daily classes, groups, and 1-1 sessions and the clinical documentations.

Fifth, I'd insure that you have at least 7 patients to attend all sessions over each 21 day IOP period.  Individual, group and educational sessions should be given daily.

All this presupposes that you have the space and appropriate facilities to conduct all these things.

Grant

James Cafferty
Apr 11, 2012 1:38:27 am

Aloha Ronny,

 

I am a little ahead of you on this having started mine last year.  Check here at True North Recovery Services (http://www.sandiegoaddictions.com/) 

You will have to decide what you are offering, psychiatry or not, etc.  but in general you will want to be able to accept insurance probably and that means you will need to have a minimum of 9 hours of contact per week per patient.  

 I do 9 and do some individual/family work as well but that may not be required for reimbursement.  My paradigm requires it though.  I just think they are essential to good treatment.    

 You will also have to see how your state looks at them.  Some states license IOP programs.  In CA they only certify them.  It is often okay to operate under a physician's license as well depending on where you are.  it all depends on your state.  check with the agency in Hawaii that regulates these matters.  

 (oh and don't forget to get a business license ;) 

Edited on: 2012-04-11 01:41:02 by: James Cafferty