Teleconference: Comprehensive Community-based Services for Children and Adolescents with Developmental Disabilities and Mental Health Needs - May 29, 2008

Link: NADD

Joan B. Beasley, Ph.D., Center for Developmental Disabilities Evaluation and Research, Eunice Kennedy Shriver Center, Waltham, MA

A community assessment process used in various states in the U.S. to evaluate services for individuals with developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs is presented. A major goal of the assessment is to identify resource gaps that may lead to the use of expensive and restrictive services, emergency services, and lengthy or unnecessary psychiatric inpatient hospital stays. In the case of children and adolescents, service outcomes include the trend toward out-of-state placements for some individuals. A process to analyze the system, include all stakeholders in problem solving, identify gaps, and develop effective solutions will be discussed. A model program to better meet the needs of children in their communities will be presented.