The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS) has teamed up with Evident Change to develop and implement the Structured Decision Making (SDM) intake tool for its Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect.
A SDM Project Kickoff event is scheduled for July 17-18, 2024. The first day will provide an overview of the SDM system and project tasks. The second day will feature sessions focused on Centralized Intake staff, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) and policy teams, and training staff. All meetings will be held virtually.
“We are excited to collaborate with Evident Change as this initiative represents a significant advancement in our efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of children and adults across West Virginia,” said Jeff Pack, DoHS Bureau for Social Services Commissioner. “By using the Structured Decision Making tool, we can make more informed decisions that will positively impact the lives of families in our communities.”
The SDM model includes a suite of decision-support tools that use evidence-based assessments at key points in child and adult protection casework. These tools help staff make consistent, accurate, and equitable decisions, and assist organizations in understanding their data, managing resources, and directing them to families with the greatest needs.
“The introduction of the Structured Decision Making tool is not just a milestone for child and adult protective services; it is also a pivotal first step toward establishing a differentiated response system within the Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect,” said Cynthia Persily, Ph.D., Secretary of the West Virginia Department of Human Services. “This system will enable the Department to better serve families in West Virginia, particularly in cases that do not meet the standards for abuse and neglect investigation but still require our attention and support. This Department’s goal is to provide a more tailored and effective response to the unique needs of each family in West Virginia, ultimately strengthening the community as a whole.”
The Project Kickoff event marks the beginning of the SDM development process, with the aim of statewide implementation by January 2026.
If you suspect the abuse or neglect of a child or adult, call the Centralized Intake for Abuse and Neglect at 1-800-352-6513. To view and apply for careers in the child welfare field to support West Virginia families, visit dhhr.wv.gov/Pages/Career-Opportunities—Social-Services-and-Health-Facilities.aspx.
