Aftercare involves structured services provided to individuals who have completed an episode of treatment in a component and who are in need of continued observation and support to maintain recovery. Aftercare services help families and prosocial support systems reinforce a healthy living environment for individuals with substance use disorders. Relapse prevention education and strategies are important in assisting the individual to recognize triggers and warning signs of regression. Activities include individual participation in daily functions that were adversely affected by substance use impairments before treatment. The provider shall offer services outside normal business hours to accommodate individuals in treatment. In addition to rule 65D-30.004, F.A.C., the following standards apply to aftercare.

1. (1) Eligibility. Individuals who have successfully completed intensive inpatient treatment, residential treatment, day or night treatment with community housing, day or night treatment, intensive outpatient treatment, outpatient treatment, or medication-assisted treatment for opioid addiction are eligible for aftercare services.

2. (2) Services. For individuals participating under the Department of Corrections, the Department of Juvenile Justice, or the Department of Management Services programs, services shall be provided according to the conditions of the contract with the provider and the respective department. Otherwise, services shall be provided in accordance with the needs of the individual as identified in the aftercare plan as follows:

   1. (a) Counseling with a focus on relapse prevention. Providers shall specify the type, frequency, and duration of counseling services to be provided to individuals who are eligible for aftercare. Special care shall be taken to ensure that the provider has flexible hours in order to meet the needs of individuals.
   2. (b) Aftercare Plan. An aftercare plan shall be developed for each individual and the plan shall provide an outline of the goals to be accomplished during aftercare including regular counseling sessions and the need for ancillary services.

   3. (c) Monitoring Progress. Providers shall monitor and document the progress of individuals involved in aftercare and shall review and update the aftercare plan to determine the need for additional services. Individuals shall be monitored with respect to attending appointments, potential for relapse, and results of counseling sessions and other contacts.

      Providers shall refer individuals for other needed services as specified in the aftercare plan. This shall include follow-up on all referrals.

   4. (d) Discharge Summary. A written discharge summary shall be completed for individuals who complete services or who leave the provider prior to completion of services. The discharge summary shall include the basis for the individual’s discharge, the individual’s progress and setbacks during treatment, and recommendations for further services.

Rulemaking Authority 397.321(5) FS. Law Implemented 397.311(26), 397.321, 397.4014, 397.410 FS. History–New 5-25-00, Amended 4-3-03, 12-12-05, 8-29-19.