NCJ Number
100324
Date Published
Unknown
Length
11 pages
Annotation
Based on a study of accountability mechanisms used by private organizations and State funding agencies delivering human and social services in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, this report presents guidelines for more effective program monitoring and grievance handling.
Abstract
The study's chief information souce was data acquired during visits to the private providers of children's services in Massachusetts and Rhode Island. The programs reviewed ranged in size from a foster home for 2 children to a self-contained facility for 73 boys and included secure treatment facilities, group homes, and runaway programs, among others. The study shows that current mechanisms, whether instituted by the provider, the funding agency, or another State agency, are ad hoc in nature and rely on the willingness of malefactors to turn themselves in. A three-tiered procedure that might better ensure accountability would include written policies, informal and semiformal resolution processes focused on problemsolving, and formal processes with appeal procedures. Client rights awareness programs, client surveys, and client access to mechanisms for monitoring abuse also can improve accountability. Finally, State agency supervision, licensing, and program and contract reviews can provide additional accountability measures. No one mechanism is sufficient. A complete accountability system must be available to clients capable of pursuing and settling their own disputes and to those who are unable to do so.