Examine your peer’s approach to this case. Do you agree or disagree with how he or she intends to deal with the situation presented? Did your colleague provide enough information on his or her state’s regulations to give you a picture of the potential limitations presented by these statutes? Did your colleague’s detailed actions for dealing with personal conflicts suitably align with the professional requirements presented in the case study? Why, or why not? Support your rationale with evidence from the required readings. Pose any questions that may need clarification. Suggest any changes that might improve the efficacy of your colleague’s approach. The Response
The 2013 Florida Statutes of Chapter 397 Substance Abuse Services states service providers may not deny an individual access to substance abuse services solely on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, age, sexual preference, human immunodeficiency virus status, prior service departures against medical advice, disability, or number of relapse episodes. Since a minor acting alone has the legal capacity to voluntarily apply for and obtain substance abuse treatment, any written consent for disclosure may be given only by the minor. This restriction includes, but is not limited to, any disclosure of identifying information to the parent, legal guardian, or custodian of a minor for the purpose of obtaining financial reimbursement. When the consent of a parent, legal guardian, or custodian is required under this chapter in order for a minor to obtain substance abuse treatment, any written consent for disclosure must be given by both the minor and the parent, legal guardian, or custodian (leg.state.fl.us, n.d).
Applying the regulation to Billy case I would not deny services to him because a minor acting alone has the legal capacity to voluntarily apply for, and obtain substance abuse treatment without his or her parents being aware of the treatment received. I would discuss with Billy on how important seeking treatment is, as well as congratulating him on his step towards a successful future. I would also inform Billy that the information obtained will not be disclosed unless authorized by him, but the parents may be subject to being notified regarding any billing for the purpose of financial reimbursement. I would also let Billy know that if this occurs, there may be a lot of questions being asked from his parents. But, together we can prepare for this if the situation does occur by not being ashamed, or feeling guilty. I don’t see any conflicts with the legal requirements that I may have as a counselor within the state of Florida. However, I do believe that adolescents will benefit from treatment greater with the support of family members.
The action I would take to be true to myself and the professional requirements are to abide strongly by the state requirement. I believe this can very well make a huge difference in having a successful treatment plan for the provider. The patient may also prove to be successful in accomplishing his or her treatment plan.
Statutes & Constitution :View Statutes : Online Sunshine. (2016). Retrieved May 17, 2016, fromhttp://www.leg.state.fl.us/Statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute.
