Prior to 2000, procedures for placing a child in residential mental health facilities lacked standard criteria, allowed potential provider conflicts of interest, and did not provide reviews to prevent children from languishing in treatment.
OPPAGA reviewed the new process required by Ch. 2000-265, Laws of Florida as implemented by the Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Health Care Administration. Pursuant to Ch. 2000-265, Laws of Florida, the Department of Children and Families and the Agency for Health Care Administration implemented a new process for assessing dependent children for placement in residential mental health treatment facilities. OPPAGA found that