What Information Helps Speed Up a Residential Referral
Providing accurate information early can make the residential referral process more efficient for everyone involved.
Residential providers need enough information to determine whether they can appropriately support the person being referred.
Providing clear information early can reduce unnecessary delays.
Basic Information
Include the individual's age, current living situation, county, contact information, and desired placement timeframe.
Daily Support Needs
Clearly describe whether assistance is needed with:
Personal care
Medications
Meals
Household routines
Mobility
Community participation
Transportation
Safety and supervision
Behavioral and Mental Health Information
Residential providers should receive an accurate picture of current needs and concerns.
This may include behavioral health diagnoses, recent hospitalizations, substance-use concerns, safety issues, and current treatment providers when applicable.
Funding Information
If known, provide information about Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security benefits, RSS, county funding, or private payment.
If funding is still being established, communicate that as well.
Current Documentation
Helpful records may include diagnostic assessments, treatment plans, medication lists, insurance information, benefit verification, and discharge documentation.
Complete information allows residential providers to make more informed placement decisions.
What Case Managers Should Know Before Making a Residential Referral
A practical guide to help case managers and referral professionals prepare for successful residential placement.
Case managers, social workers, behavioral health professionals, discharge planners, and community providers often play an important role in helping individuals identify appropriate residential housing.
Providing clear information at the beginning of the referral process can help the residential provider determine whether a placement may be appropriate.
Begin Residential Planning Early
When possible, residential planning should begin before housing becomes an emergency.
Starting early allows additional time to:
Identify appropriate residential options
Gather necessary documentation
Clarify funding
Coordinate medications
Communicate with providers
Plan transportation and community supports
Address potential barriers to placement
Clearly Describe the Individual's Support Needs
Residential providers need an accurate understanding of how the individual functions on a day-to-day basis.
Helpful information may include:
Personal-care needs
Medication support needs
Mobility
Behavioral concerns
Community-safety needs
Communication abilities
Daily living skills
Substance-use concerns
Level of supervision required
Providing complete and accurate information helps determine whether the residence can appropriately meet the individual's needs.
Provide Current Documentation When Available
Helpful records may include:
Diagnostic assessment
Current treatment plan
Medication list
Insurance information
Income or benefit verification
TB screening
Discharge paperwork
Case manager and provider information
The specific documentation required may vary depending on the individual and funding source.
Collaboration Is Important
Successful residential placement often involves communication between the individual, case manager, residential provider, family, and community treatment team.
Each provider has a different role, but coordinated communication can support greater stability and continuity of care.
Refer Someone to Walker Wellness Homes
Walker Wellness Homes welcomes referrals from case managers, social workers, hospitals, behavioral health providers, community agencies, and families.
Contact us or submit a referral to discuss residential needs and current placement options.