LOWER NAUGATUCK VALLEY SYSTEM OF CARE

How can we increase access to children's mental health services?

That was the issue that led the Lower Naugatuck Valley System of Care (LNVSOC) to apply for a 14-month grant for $46,432 in June 2008 from the Connecticut Health Foundation (CT Health). The issue is also a CT Health priority area.

Specifically, the barriers to access - and sources of delay - that the LNVSOC identified included:

• Waiting lists for services
• Different eligibility requirements for difference providers
• Different referral  information required by different providers
• Difficulty for providers knowing the level of urgency

"The process for families is lengthy," says Michael Wynne, LNVSOC co-chair and CEO of the Parent Child Resource Center, a LNVSOC agency. "Often, services are put on hold while providers gather basic information, such as who referred the child or family and why."

Wynne adds that during the delay, the child¦s mental health needs and family needs can increase.

The solution the LNVSOC envisioned was an Easy Access Network, a uniform referral system involving multiple agencies.  Using a common form, these agencies could obtain information such as:

• Who referred the child/family
• The reason for the referral
• A signed release form

The child/family would benefit from:

• Quicker transition from one provider to another
• Appropriate referrals
• Less waiting time
• Eliminating the need to repeat their story to a new provider

Agencies serving families in the Lower Naugatuck Valley would sign an agreement to participate in the network, using the uniform referral system and common referral form.  Parents and providers helped develop the form by participating in a parent survey and five focus groups.  As a result:

• A uniform interagency referral form is being tested and modified by participating agencies. 
• A directory of services is available to providers, schools and parents.
• A medication form was developed, a need parents identified and providers confirmed.

Looking ahead, "We anticipate the final forms will be approved by each agency and provider, and institutionalized," says Wynne.  The collaborative also will periodically review the process to determine the need for further adjustments and ensure smooth operation.

"We'll also look at whether or not to expand the network to include other agencies and providers."

Website:  http://www.favor-ct.org/collaborative_detail.cfm?CollabRecID=14