APPROPRIATE TREATMENT PLANNING

Information gathered through a comprehensive assessment and a shared decision making process is used to provide the treatment plan. Problem areas and strengths are clearly identified.

The treatment plan specifically addresses how each problem area will be managed. For each problem area, the treatment plan specifies the specific nature of the problem(s), the desired change (short- and long-term goals) and the means by which the goals will be achieved. It also describes how the problem will be managed, including the type of treatment, the frequency, the provider(s) responsible for the treatment service and the time frame for re-evaluating treatment progress.
The treatment plan prioritises problems requiring immediate focus and those of less urgency.

All major problems, once formulated, regardless of whether or not they will be addressed, are outlined. If a decision is made not to address a major problem, the justification for this decision is explained in the treatment plan.

The treating physician acts as a team lead to ensure that all aspects of the treatment plan are implemented in a coordinated and synergistic way.