Because many of the issues for which clients need referrals actually influence risk behavior, you should

• Work with your clients’ other service providers to address needs – especially those that influence risk – and assure services are being provided
• Discuss with your client the ways in which need for services and service provision (e.g., housing or substance use treatment) influences their risk behavior; for example, substance use can interfere with the ability to use protective measures such as condoms.

Coordination of services is important in order to provide the most effective and comprehensive support to your clients. It also helps prevent service duplication. It’s a good idea to have service providers – including the CRCS counselor and others such as Ryan White case managers (for HIV-positive clients), substance abuse and mental health counselors, and medical providers – meet regularly to discuss your clients’ progress and share information regarding services and referrals.

When you work closely with your clients’ case managers and other service providers, you may find that you can pitch in where needed and make referrals, but you should keep your clients’ case managers in the loop.

You should have access to up-to-date lists of service providers, whether they are internal or external to your agency, for referrals. You also need to be familiar with the types of services provided, eligibility criteria (if any), location, public transportation options, cost of services (if any), and insurance coverage.

Lessons from the field

In a recent PCM demonstration project, a multidisciplinary team approach proved to be very effective for providing a full range of services that are mutually supportive for each client. This particular multidisciplinary team consisted of the CRCS prevention counselor, the case manager, a substance use counselor, a physician, a nurse practitioner, and a client advocate. The team approach is a model that requires a lot of managerial and supervisory support and time and energy to put together and operate, but agencies that use this model are sold on its usefulness in supporting their clients.

Go to section 2 part 5B