The Referral Process For Families
At NewStep, we understand that planning a transition from hospital to supportive living can feel overwhelming. As a company, we started by delivering compassionate adult in-home care and have expanded our services to include hospital discharge support and supportive living accommodation with residential care. Our mission is to provide a safe, home-like bridge between hospital and independent living.
At NewStep, we understand that moving from hospital to home — or into a supportive living environment — can be a major transition. Our goal is to make this process as smooth and reassuring as possible for individuals and families across Alberta. Before being referred to a supported living program, a needs assessment is typically completed by a hospital discharge planner, Alberta Health Services (AHS) case manager, or another healthcare professional. This assessment helps determine the level of care, support, and type of environment that best fits the individual’s needs — whether that’s short-term transitional care, residential support, or returning home with ongoing in-home services.
Once a referral is made, a NewStep Intake Coordinator will contact you or your family to:
• Learn about your goals for recovery and independence
• Provide information about our available supportive living and transitional home options
In Canada, referrals may come directly from:
• Hospital discharge planning teams
• Physicians and specialists
• Social workers or case managers
• Families and caregivers
• Self-referring individuals
Funding may be through public health programs, continuing care coordinators, or private/self-funded options depending on the individual’s needs and eligibility. If your loved one does not yet have a case manager or AHS Continuing Care Coordinator, we can guide you on how to connect with the appropriate support team. Once a professional or family initiates a referral, NewStep will guide you through each step — from the initial assessment to move-in day.
Step 1 — Initial Referral or Inquiry
(Within 24 hours — NewStep)
Families, hospitals, or professionals submit a referral or contact us directly. We gather initial details about the individual’s care needs and discharge timelines.
Step 2 — Needs Screening & Eligibility Review
(Within 2–3 business days — NewStep)
We conduct an initial review of medical, mobility, and support needs to determine if our supportive living accommodation is a suitable fit.
Step 3 — One-to-One Assessment
(Within 7–10 business days — NewStep)
A virtual or in-person assessment is completed with the individual, family, and—if applicable—the hospital or case management team. We develop a preliminary care plan and identify support requirements.
Step 4 — Home Visit or Virtual Tour & Placement Proposal
(Within 2 business days — NewStep)
Families and professionals are invited to view the home, meet the team, and confirm suitability. We then prepare a placement proposal outlining care needs, supports, fees, or coordination with public funding teams.
Step 5 — Funding Confirmation & Move-In Planning
(Timeline varies — AHS, case managers, or private payer)
For publicly supported transitions, funding approval occurs through AHS Continuing Care, community programs, or insurance. For private admissions, placement can move forward once the agreement is finalized. Once approved, NewStep coordinates the move-in date, prepares the room, and finalizes the care plan with the family and professional team.
Who We Support
- Hospital discharge patients
- Adult with learning disabilities
- Adults in transition from homelessness or crisis situations
- Clients awaiting permanent housing or care placement
