Draw a simple four-column table in your notes: stage, responsible person, next decision, and confirmed destination. Use one row each for inquiry, pre-admission review, arrival, change in needs, and discharge. Leave a cell blank when the answer is unknown. A blank cell is a useful signal to ask another question, not permission to assume that a service or destination exists.
SAMHSA quality guidance supports asking about continuing-care planning and family involvement. Ask when planning begins, how the person's preferences are included, what information can be shared with consent, and whether the program helps identify appropriate next options. Coordination does not guarantee placement. Confirm separately whether another provider has availability, accepts the person, and has completed its own review.
- Identify who owns each handoff and how that person can be reached through the facility's confirmed channels.
- Ask when discharge and continuing-care planning begin.
- Record whether every next step is confirmed, pending review, or only a possible option.