Assessment is often the first step for people accessing treatment for alcohol or drug (AOD) use. It helps identify immediate risks, set goals and plan next steps. While assessments are usually followed by further treatment such as counselling, some people receive only an assessment, with no further treatment recorded. Understanding how people move from assessment to treatment, can improve continuity of care and support better service planning.
- Cat. no: HSE 257
Key findings
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‘Assessment only’ service use patterns varied across states and territories
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Half of clients who received an ‘Assessment only’ episode went on to receive further treatment within one year
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Further treatment after an assessment depends on individual factors and state or territory treatment practices
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When clients do receive further treatment, most access it within 3 months of their assessment