Project Overview
The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) contracted with the Texas Institute for Child & Family Wellbeing (TXICFW) for a 5-year project to develop and implement a best practices model for case managers serving families caring for children with special health care needs and/or medically complex health care needs.
Background of CSHCN Program
Every state is federally-required to allocate a portion of funds from the Title V Maternal and Child Health Block Grant to provide services specifically for the population of children with special health care needs. While there may be other programs that also serve this population, Title V is the only funding source specific for this population. In Texas, DSHS implements case management programming for children with special health care needs through regional state staff as well as community contractors. Case management and care coordination is a significant component of this program and enables families to gain access to services and supports needed to enhance their wellbeing and quality of life.
Project Purpose & Design
This project explores regional differences in CSHCN case management and identifies best practices to build a case management practice model. This model will deliver high quality-services that are trauma-informed, strengths-based, and family-centered across communities in the state. In collaboration with DSHS, TXICFW will implement this project in three phases:
- Needs Assessment
- Curriculum Development
- Training & Guidance
Project Staff
Beth Gerlach, Ph.D., LCSW, Associate DirectorPrincipal Investigator
Swetha Nulu, MPH, PMP, Director of Project ManagementLead Research Coordinator
Brenda Orozco, LMSW, Program & Training SpecialistProgram & Training Specialist
Laura Marra, MSSW, Director of Research and EvaluationResearch Supervisor