3017.0: Monday, October 22, 2001 - 12:30 PM

Abstract #27045

San Francisco Women's Treatment Network: A new approach to probation

Rosemary Prem1, Monica Chan, MBA1, Tamara Revels, BA1, Cheryl Marsh, BA2, Patricia A. Hill, MPA3, and Joseph R. Guydish1. (1) Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California, San Francisco, Box 0936, LHTS, San Francisco, CA 94143-0936, 415-476-3379, prem@itsa.ucsf.edu, (2) San Francisco Adult Probation Department, Hall of Justice, 880 Bryant Street, Room 200, San Francisco, CA 94103, (3) Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs, State of California, 1700 K Street, Sacramento, CA 95814

The San Francisco Women's Treatment Network is one of four women-focused demonstration projects funded by the Center for Substance Abuse Treatment (CSAT) to network services for women substance abusers who are involved with the criminal justice system. In San Francisco, the Adult Probation Department has developed the CSAT idea into a program in which probation officers also serve as case managers. In addition to court related duties, Network Probation Officers also assist their clients in accessing services when released from jail. These services include substance abuse treatment, medical treatment, counseling and others as needed. The Program also assists with obtaining Public Assistance, and interfacing with Child Protective Services. In addition, the Network has increased the interaction of this branch of the Adult Probation department with the community, both in terms of partnering with other service agencies, and in providing incentive for officers to move some of their activities to community settings. This presentation will describe the design and development of the Network Program, it's partnerships with other agencies, the client base, and outcome evaluation results from a randomized clinical study. We will also discuss the potential of this model as communities in California begin planning for the implementation of Proposition 36, the recently adopted ballot proposition mandating treatment for first and second time drug offenders.

Learning Objectives: 1)Describe characteristics and major issues for incarcerated and newly released women. 2)Discuss programs and strategies for linking incarcerated and newly released women and their children to treatment and other services. 3)Identify components and partnerships needed in a community-based comprehensive system of care for incarcerated women. 4)Identify barriers to drug treatment services among pregnant women. 5)Discuss policy implications in terms of ensuring a comprehensive system of care for women who use illegal drugs. 6)Identify outcomes for measuring the impact of local programs and policies. 7)Discuss future initiatives and their potential impact on women's services.

Keywords: Access and Services, Vulnerable Populations

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: San Francisco Adult Probation Department
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA