Mississippi Integrated Practice Model
Faced with addressing multiple requirements from the Olivia Y vs. Barbour child welfare settlement agreement, COA accreditation standards, and the upcoming Federal Child and Family Services Review (CFSR), the Mississippi Department of Human Services (MDHS) decided to frame its mandates and interventions in a child welfare practice model. MDHS contracted with CSF to assist in developing a child welfare practice model that incorporated the many mandates it faced and that could be easily understood by field staff and stakeholders across the State. CSF conducted an analysis of current practice, resources, policy, training, and monitoring in the State. We analyzed the many requirements of the settlement agreement, COA, the CFSR, and developed a conceptual framework for the practice model that reflected these requirements in addition to the Department’s mission and values. The practice model is comprised of six broad components, including safety assurance and risk management, mobilizing appropriate services timely, involving family members in decision making and case activities, preserving relationships and connections, individualized case planning, and strengths and needs assessments.
