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

Centralizing DCF Substance Abuse and Mental Health Programs Produced Benefits

Report 06-12, February 2006




Report Summary

The department has restructured the substance abuse and mental health programs to support the centralized organizational structure required by law. The centralized structure created some challenges but has produced several benefits, including improved system outcomes, better service coordination, more streamlined functions, greater use of evidenced-based practice, and enhanced data collection and analysis. Therefore, the current structure and placement of the substance abuse and mental health programs should be continued beyond the October 2006 sunset date.

Some additional changes could further streamline functions and improve system outcomes:

  • consolidating the programs' budget unit and the program functions of supported employment and supported housing, and
  • designating an entity to convene regular meetings of state agencies involved in the mental health system.


Related Reports
  1. Incompetent to Proceed Adjudications Increasing
    Report 08-17 March 2008
  2. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Corporation Made Progress But Needs More Narrow Focus
    Report 06-21 March 2006
  3. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Corporation Has Not Addressed Its Responsibilities Fully
    Report 05-17 March 2005
  4. Centralizing DCF Substance Abuse and Mental Health Programs Provides Benefits But Also Challenge
    Report 05-07 February 2005
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, human services, substance abuse, mental health, DCF, children and families, community mental health, adults, children, treatment facilities, contracting, institutions, budgeting, districts, zones, decentralization, staffing reduction, organizational, temporary employees