CONNECT is a secure, web-based system for sending and receiving referrals. Agencies, healthcare and social service providers, are brought together under a single information sharing agreement that is HIPAA, FERPA, 42CFR and IDEA compliant.

CONNECT is a free online system that is maintained by the Montana State Department of Health and Human Services and supported by a local program coordinator.

What are the benefits of using the CONNECT Referral System?

CONNECT takes less time than traditional referral practices. Providers receiving referrals via CONNECT can easily confirm receipt, and send updates on the referred client’s progress.

CONNECT not only simplifies the referral process, it eliminates the unknown of whether a referral was delivered successfully.

The CONNECT system also helps to:

• Eliminate duplication of referrals
• Prevent delays in service or lapse in care due to lost or undelivered referrals
• Track number of referrals sent and received
• Track referral-related outcomes

Why is care coordination important?

 “Closing the loop” is a term that describes a well-functioning coordinated care delivery system. It implies that information flows easily during a referral – the referring service provider is able to let the recipient provider know the pertinent information about the client being referred, and the recipient can let the referring provider know the opinions and recommendations that result from the referral.  It’s a two-way “loop.”

Closing the loop in care coordination  

LESS WASTE
Reduce or eliminate:
-Duplication of service
-Unnecessary referrals
-Failed transitions to/from facilities

FEWER PROBLEMS
Weak hand-offs result in:
-Delays in service
-Lapses in care
-Diminished health outcomes

HAPPIER CLIENTS AND STAFF
-Reduced frustration for all parties involved
-Easily tracking client progress is rewarding for staff

Who can use CONNECT?

+ Social service agencies
+ School districts
+ Medical providers
+ Mental health providers
+ Faith-based organizations
+ Veteran and military service providers
+ Food banks
+ Housing programs
+ Prevention programs
+ Home visiting programs
+ Case managers
+ Senior services
+ Disability services
+ Youth programs
+ Anyone offering a necessary support service to families, children or adults

What data is available via CONNECT?

CONNECT provides data about referrals, helping improve service delivery to clients.
Agencies may request any of these reports:
-Referral Delays to an Agency
-Referrals To/From Agencies
-Referral Outcomes for Agencies

These reports track the number, status and outcomes of referrals sent and received.
This information puts accountability front and center, allowing agencies to easily evaluate service delivery.

For more information please contact:

Molly Blair

CONNECT Coordinator and Worksite Wellness Coordinator

Health Promotion

Missoula County Health Department

406-258-3379

mblair@missoulacounty.us

Connect Montana:  www.connectmontana.org