Getting an Assessment
Assessing OUD
Assessments are an evaluation used to establish diagnoses, guide treatment plans, and determine eligibility for financial support and insurance benefits for the cost of treatment. This is a crucial step in the treatment process, and a requirement for being admitted at most facilities. There are different types of assessments currently used in Minnesota: a general comprehensive assessment, and a Rule 25 assessment.
Who Provides Assessments?
Assessments are typically offered at treatment and detox facilities. Assessments can be conducted by licensed professionals in the field of addiction recovery, including:
- Doctors
- Nurses
- Therapists
- Psychologists
- Counselors
What is a Comprehensive Assessment?
A comprehensive assessment is a questionnaire used to determine the type of treatment needed, as well as underlying medical conditions which may require specific levels of care. These assessments allow for the treatment team to build a plan specifically tailored towards the patient.
The 1-2 hour questionnaire provides an in-depth evaluation in order to understand one’s experience with substance use, including specific substances being used, how often they are being used, and side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Additional questions are focused on the individual’s mental health history, as this can inform strategies for recovery.
What is a Rule 25 Assessment?
A Rule 25 Assessment is a Minnesota-specific assessment option required for anyone seeking public funding for chemical health treatment. Like a comprehensive assessment, it is used by certified professionals to determine what level of care and type of treatment is needed. The Rule 25 is shorter, but limited to chemical health issues. A separate assessment for mental health, known as a Diagnostic Assessment, may be needed to evaluate co-occurring mental disorders.
Each county has a referral number that can be called for more information about getting a Rule 25 assessment. Click here for a list of MN’s Rule 25 referral lines.
In mid-2022, the State of Minnesota is expected to launch a restructured SUD treatment system which will move away from Rule 25 Assessments to a “Direct Access” approach. You can view the Minnesota Department of Health’s website for updated information and additional services here.
Financial Assistance Eligibility
Financial support is available through MN’s Behavioral Health Fund, formerly known as the Consolidated Chemical Dependency Treatment Fund. This can help cover expenses assessments and recommended treatment services. Residency, insurance, income, and household size determine the eligibility for this fund.