(A)Each PCSA or PCPA shall provide or arrange preplacement services to the child and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian when substitute care placement of the child is to occur. Preplacement services shall include, but not be limited to:

(1)Counseling the child and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian regarding feelings of separation.

(2)Establishing communication between the PCSA or PCPA, the child, and his or her parent, guardian, or custodian.

(3)Arranging at least one preplacement visit with the caregiver.

(B)When placement of a child occurs on an emergency basis as set forth in rules 5101:2-39-01 and 5101:2-39-03 of the Administrative Code, preplacement services listed in this rule may not be possible. The requirements of paragraph (A) of this rule may not apply to:

(1)Children who are less than one year of age.

(2)Children who are familiar with the caregiver, unless the PCSA determines that preplacement visits are in the child's best interest.

(3)Placements involving children's residential centers or specialized placement facilities, when such visits conflict with the facility's or center's preplacement visitation policy.

(4)Placements in accordance with the interstate compact on placement of children (ICPC) pursuant to rules 5101:2-52-04 and 5101:2-52-06 of the Administrative Code.

(5)Placement of a child on an emergency basis as set forth in rules 5101:2-39-01 and 5101:2-39-03 of the Administrative Code.

(C)Documentation or other notes regarding the provision of preplacement services shall be maintained in the child's case record.

Effective: