24 Miss. Code. R. 2-49.6 - Services to People Who Use Intravenous (IV) Drugs

A. All DMH-certified substance use services must document and follow written policies and procedures that ensure:

1. People who use IV drugs are provided priority admission over non-IV drug users.

2. People who use IV drugs are placed in treatment services identified as the best modality by the assessment within 48 hours.

3. If an agency provider is unable to admit a person who uses IV drugs due to being at capacity or any other appropriate reason, the agency provider must assess, refer, and place the person in another DMH-certified agency provider within 48 hours.

4. If unable to complete the entire process as outlined, DMH must be notified immediately by fax or email using standardized forms provided by DMH. The time frame for notifying DMH of inability to place a person who uses IV drugs cannot exceed 48 hours from the initial request for treatment from the person.

5. If an agency provider is at capacity and a referral must be made, the referring provider is responsible for assuring the establishment of alternate placement at another DMH-certified agency provider within 48 hours.

6. The referring agency provider is responsible for ensuring the person is placed within 48 hours.

7. In the event there is an IV drug user who is unable to be admitted because of insufficient capacity, the following interim services will be provided:

(a) Counseling and education regarding HIV and TB, the risks of sharing needles, the risk of transmission to sex partners and infants, and the steps to prevent HIV transmission; and

(b) Referrals for HIV and TB services made when necessary.

8. Written documentation of placement or assessment and referral of IV drug users must be maintained on-site and reported to DMH.

Notes

24 Miss. Code. R. 2-49.6

Miss. Code Ann. § 41-4-7

Adopted 7/1/2016 Amended 9/1/2020 Amended 11/1/2024