Tips for a successful SMI evaluation meeting.
The best way to make sure that the SMI determination is done correctly and as quickly as possible is to be prepared. Bring as much information as possible to the SMI evaluation meeting.
Tip 1
Evaluations typically last approximately 1.5 – 2 hours, so plan accordingly. Bring identification and a list of current medications to the appointment.
Tip 2
Provide a list of any past behavioral health providers (i.e. schools, doctors, hospitals, therapists, etc.), and include their name, address, and telephone number. A release of information (ROI) will be completed by the evaluator, so records from providers can be requested if needed.
Tip 3
Provide copies of any clinically relevant behavioral health records, if available (i.e. hospital discharge paperwork, school IEPs, Individual Service Plans, medical records, etc.).
Tip 4
Friends and/or family members can attend the evaluation to provide additional background information about symptoms and functional impairments.