What follows are informal tips from Bob Morris, MGH Addictions Services.

SUGGESTIONS ABOUT HOW TO APPROACH THE REFERRAL PHONE CALL:
Don't give unnecessary information. Give name, birth-date, social security number, substance(s) used, and whether or not person has been there before. Try not to get sidetracked into history that is not current, and that may scare them off. At the same time, much of their willingness to take a patient is based on trust of the referrer. So don't withhold vital information about current risks/behaviors either. Keep in mind that they have many fewer beds than people being referred, they can take their pick. They don't have to take our patients.

OTHER ADVOCACY TIPS:

• If someone is already connected to a Methadone clinic, send the person to the clinic to find detox. They have better access to beds.