Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability
Office of Program Policy Analysis and Government Accountability

Residential Mental Health Assessment Process Working Well with Minor Delays

Report 03-03, January 2003




Report Summary

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

  • the majority of children assessed between December 2001 and November 2002 were recommended for more intensive residential treatment rather than community-based treatment;
  • assessment costs are set by contract with a private firm and do not vary across the state;
  • delays do occur in the assessment process, but are not substantial; and
  • there is no need to expand the professional groups who conduct assessments.


Related Reports
  1. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Corporation Has Not Addressed Its Responsibilities Fully
    Report 05-17 March 2005
  2. Centralizing DCF Substance Abuse and Mental Health Programs Provides Benefits But Also Challenge
    Report 05-07 February 2005
  3. Progress Report: DCF Implements Recommendations, But Some Delays Still Occurring in Residential Mental Health Assessment Process
    Report 04-67 August 2004
  4. Progress Report of Justification Review: Child Protection Program, Department of Children and Families
    Report 02-16 March 2002
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.
social services, health, child abuse, dependent children, children's mental health, residential treatment, qualified evalutors, assessments