Financing strategies that support effective children's systems of care: Findings of a national study

The purpose of this presentation is to present a summary of the key findings and policy and financing recommendations from a five-year national study sponsored by the Research and Training Center for Children's Mental Health regarding the financing strategies that support effective children's systems of care. The overall purpose of the study is to develop a better understanding of the critical financing structures and strategies that support effective systems of care for children and adolescents with behavioral health disorders and their families and to examine how these financing strategies operate separately and collectively.

The study uses a participatory action research approach, promoting a continuous dialogue and engagement with key users on study methods, findings, and products.

Initial study tasks included convening a panel of financing experts, including state and county administrators, representatives of tribal organizations, providers, family members, and national financing consultants to develop a list of critical financing strategies. The critical financing strategies were used to create the first study product – a Self Assessment and Planning Guide: Developing a Comprehensive Financing Plan that addresses seven important areas to assist states or communities to develop strategic financing plans for systems of care.

The second phase of the study uses a multiple case study design. The study team has completed all data collection activities, including 10 face-to-face visits to states and communities as well as three conference calls to an additional three sites with promising financing strategies and structures. This presentation will focus on key study findings and policy recommendations.