Sponsor Statement for HB 427

A Single Entry Service Delivery Model where care coordination is defined as a dynamic advocacy process involving the client, family, providers and community resources will facilitate and promote the highest potential level of independence and productivity. In this context, dynamic means family circumstances, economics, resource availability, funding streams and individual needs are fluid. Care coordination must be sensitive to this ever-changing environment and respond quickly. Advocacy means care coordination, first and foremost, champion's necessary, appropriate, cost effective care. This requires realistic goals, practical operations, knowledge of resources and funding mechanisms, innovative and creative treatment planning, open communication and commitment to collaboration involving children, families, providers, schools, judicial system, government and communities.

A single point of entry for children and families experiencing complex needs associated with severe emotional disturbances reduces barriers and helps eliminate inappropriate referrals and duplication of multiple intakes and services.

The goal of HB 427 is to move the current child/adolescent single entry mental health delivery system to a more outcome oriented, evaluation based, model that utilizes relievable data to improve planning activities, decision making, consumer satisfaction, and promotes the refinement of the service delivery system.