Strengthening Behavioral Health Transitions of Care: The Importance of Timely Follow-Up
10/6/2026
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Posted by Provider Relations
The HEDIS® behavioral health F-series measures focus on timely transitions of care following behavioral health and substance use-related hospitalizations or emergency department visits. These measures highlight the importance of connecting members to follow-up care within 7 days to support recovery and improve outcomes.
They include:
• Follow-Up After Hospitalization for Mental Illness (FUH)
• Follow-Up After Emergency Department Visit for Mental Illness (FUM)
• Follow-Up After High-Intensity Care for Substance Use Disorder (FUI)
• Follow-Up After Emergency Department Visit for Substance Use (FUA)
The days immediately following discharge are critical. Without timely follow-up, members may experience worsening symptoms, challenges with treatment adherence, or an increased risk of readmission. A follow-up visit within 7 days helps ensure members remain connected to care and receive the support they need for recovery.
Providers can help prevent crises by identifying concerns early and connecting members to behavioral health resources. When notified of a behavioral health admission or emergency department visit, providers should contact the treating facility, support discharge planning, and schedule a follow-up appointment within seven days.
Building relationships with hospitals, behavioral health facilities, and emergency departments can improve communication and support smoother transitions of care. Strong collaboration helps ensure members receive timely follow-up services and access to additional treatment when needed.
To support these efforts, providers are encouraged to share Fidelis Care resources with members, including our Behavioral Health Resources page as well as our Virtual Benefits and Support page, which includes information on available telehealth vendors and virtual behavioral health services.
By prioritizing timely follow-up and coordinated transitions of care, providers can help members stay connected to treatment, support recovery, and improve overall quality outcomes.