What is the purpose of a discharge/transition plan?

• A. To ensure a smooth transition, link to aftercare resources, and maintain progress after treatment.
• B. To conclude treatment with no follow-up.
• C. To reduce documentation requirements.
• D. To defer responsibility to the client indefinitely.

Answer: (A)

Discharge or transition planning centers on ensuring continuity of care as treatment ends, so gains are sustained after leaving the program. It connects the client to aftercare resources, schedules follow-up contacts, and sets up supports—like housing, transportation, employment assistance, medication management, and family or peer supports—to help maintain progress. The plan is developed with the client to set realistic goals, identify potential barriers, and coordinate with community providers for a smooth handoff, preventing gaps in care. This proactive approach reduces relapse risk by providing structured support, accountability, and clear steps for ongoing recovery.

Ending treatment with no follow-up, reducing documentation, or deferring responsibility indefinitely would leave the client without essential supports and risk undoing progress, which is why those options don’t fit the purpose of a discharge plan.