What is necessary within seven days of an initial referral to an ACT program?

An admission decision is indeed a critical step that must be undertaken within seven days of an initial referral to an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) program. This time frame is essential because it ensures that individuals needing support receive timely access to services, aligning with the goals of the ACT model which emphasizes immediate and ongoing assistance in the community.

Timely admission decisions help to reduce the risk of deterioration of the individual's condition and facilitate access to necessary resources that can enhance their functioning and stability. The ACT model is designed to provide comprehensive treatment and support, and making a prompt admission decision is a fundamental component of this process.

In contrast, while family meetings, written reports, and referrals to external services are important aspects of comprehensive care, they are not specifically mandated to take place within the critical seven-day window following an initial referral. These processes may occur later as part of a wider strategy in the individual’s treatment plan but do not have the same urgency as making an admission decision.