Intake process and tools

Intake and assessment

People seeking alcohol and other drug treatment are triaged by catchment-based intake services. A list of all catchments in Victoria can be found at catchment-based intake services.

At the assessment stage, an AOD practitioner will work collaboratively with the person to understand their needs and create a care plan together. This includes:

• harms and other risks associated with the person's substance use and broader life issues
• people who may need immediate support or crisis response
• the type of treatment they might be interested in
• a baseline measure to assess future outcomes

Treatment pathways

Every person has their own treatment needs and preferences. Once a person has engaged with a service, they do not need to return through catchment-based intake. They can be guided to the service they are seeking. In most cases, the existing treatment provider can:

• facilitate further treatment
• update the treatment plan
• inform the catchment-based intake service of the individual’s allocation to a new course of treatment or episode of care

If a significant change in need or life complexity occurs, people may be referred for re-assessment.

Resources for service providers

The department endorses key tools for clinicians to use during intake and assessment. Turning Point provide an online learning program to familiarise AOD clinicians with key tools. Clinicians can also refer to the Clinician's guide.

Clinicians can complete optional modules to learn more about a person’s experiences, strengths and needs. All optional modules are available under downloads.

The intake tool is used to identify a person's level of risk and need and determine appropriate treatment pathways. The intake tool can be used in a range of delivery settings, including over the phone.

Comprehensive assessment tool

The comprehensive assessment tool supports treatment providers to understand a person’s circumstances and history. A self-completion form is filled out alongside this and other sources of information. This helps to plan quality, holistic care in collaboration with the person seeking support.

Note: this assessment tool is not developmentally appropriate for people under 21 years old. It should only be used for record keeping where a young person is engaged and assessed over time.

Initial care planning

Practitioners who provide the comprehensive assessment will also develop an initial care plan. This is informed by:

• information collected at intake and assessment
• the individual’s identified treatment needs and preferences

The completed tools and care plan form part of a package of referral information. This is then provided to services engaged for treatment.