Chemical Assessments

What is a Rule 25 in Hennepin County?

A Rule 25 is a chemical health evaluation conducted by a licensed medical professional. The evaluation itself requires a face-to-face interview between the medical professional and the person in need of a chemical dependency evaluation. When you meet with an Assessor in Minnesota, a standardized questionnaire is used, which is referred to as a “Rule 25” because the questionnaire is based upon Minnesota state statutes/rules, subarticle 25. This Rule 25 assessment questionnaire is widely used because if a person is in need of alcohol or drug treatment, a completed Rule 25 is required to gain entry into MN treatment programs licensed by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. The assessment of alcohol or other drug use can occur in Minneapolis or elsewhere in Hennepin County.

Are there free options for assessments if I am uninsured?

Yes - in Minnesota there are specialized funds set aside to pay for rule 25 assessments and alcohol/drug treatment for individuals who are underinsured or uninsured. These funds are in what is known as the MN Consolidated Chemical Dependency Treatment Fund (CCDTF). Not everyone will qualify as there are health insurance, residency and income eligibility requirements. To apply, simply contact the Adult mental health services. They ask that people interested in information about eligibility and resources to obtain a rule 25 assessment, contact the Front Door at 612-348-4111.

Who needs alcohol or drug treatment?

Hennepin County MN Chemical Health Evaluators determine who needs treatment based upon eleven “symptoms” related to chemical (alcohol and other drug) use. The more symptoms you are experiencing, the more likely outside help is appropriate. The eleven symptoms are:

• continued chemical use despite having problems, such as legal troubles (i.e., DWI or DUI)
• chemicals being taken in larger amounts or over a longer period of time than was intended
• a frequent desire or unsuccessful efforts to cut down or control substance use
• spending a great deal of time obtaining the chemical, using the chemical, or recovering from its effects
• craving or a strong desire to use the substance
• failing to fulfill major role obligations at work, school, home because of chemical use
• important social, occupational, or recreational activities are given up or reduced because of substance use
• recurrent chemical use in situations in which it is physically hazardous
• substance use is continued despite knowledge of having physical or psychological problem that is likely to have been caused or made worse by the substance
• tolerance: a need for increased amounts of the chemicals to achieve intoxication or desired effect
• physical withdrawal symptoms

Make sure to seek out a highly-trained assessor who can properly determine who actually needs treatment, and if treatment is needed, the most appropriate and effective treatment options.

How do I schedule a Rule 25 Assessment if I have health insurance?

Call 612.249.3656 to schedule your Rule 25 assessment in Minneapolis or the surrounding metro.

Who is a highly-trained Rule 25 Assessor?

Michael, 612.249.3656, spent years studying and researching addictive disorders at Harvard University. He now lives in Minnesota and is an experienced Rule 25 assessor based in Minneapolis / St Paul. Michael serves Hennepin County and is an expert in determining if there is a problem, the severity of that problem, and the best available treatment for your unique situation.

Additionally, Michael is unaffiliated with any Twin Cities treatment programs or clinics; as a result, you do not have to worry about being pressured into any treatment program or mislabeled an “alcoholic” or addict.”

Michael works in private practice, so he works for you, not a treatment company so he is not under any pressure to admit you into treatment. You do not have to worry about being misdiagnosed, mislabeled, or having your wants and needs ignored. If treatment is appropriate, you will receive placement into clinics that offer the most effective therapies.

Why chose a “private” assessor?

• Private assessors, such as Michael 612.249.3656, are your personal advocate
• They work for you not a treatment center or governmental agency
• Your Rule 25 can be kept completely confidential by private assessors, away from permeant medical or Hennepin county records
• Your opinion, wishes and desires are taken into account. You are not "just another number," mandated into treatment
• If treatment is needed, you will receive quick referrals into the best option throughout your area
• You will have direct, after-hours access to your assessor
• You will not be rushed in and out of the clinic, instead the assessment process will be clearly explained and demystified

Where do I meet Michael?

Michael meets clients throughout the Twin Cities: