CALOCUS
Also written as: CALOCUS — Child and Adolescent Level of Care Utilization System
A level of care assessment instrument used to determine appropriate mental health service intensity for youth.
Full Definition
The Child and Adolescent Level of Care Utilization System (CALOCUS) is a comprehensive assessment tool designed to match children and adolescents with the most clinically appropriate and cost-effective level of mental health care. CALOCUS evaluates multiple dimensions including risk of harm, functional status, comorbidity, recovery environment, treatment and recovery history, and acceptance/engagement. The instrument provides structured decision-making support for placement in various levels of care from outpatient services to residential treatment. CALOCUS is particularly valued for its reliability in authorization decisions and its ability to track changes in functioning over time to support step-down or step-up decisions.
Usage
Usage note: CALOCUS and CASII are similar tools; check which instrument your system requires for authorizations.
In Context
- "The CALOCUS assessment supported the recommendation for partial hospitalization services." — Clinical assessment report
- "Monthly CALOCUS updates tracked the youth's progress toward step-down to outpatient care." — Treatment review documentation