Evaluation of DDSN Statewide Quality Assurance System

GOALS:

Assess the reliability and validity of the quality assurance system used by the South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs.

DESCRIPTION:

This unique project is a collaboration among the Center for Disability Resources, The National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services (NASDDDS), and the Research and Training Center on Community Living at the University of Minnesota.

The project is focused on six key activities completed during the current system for QA implemented by the First Health Services Corporation (FHSC).  Using program evaluation methodology based on the CMS Quality Framework, it will assess reliability and validity with respect to the functions of design, discovery, remediation, and continuous discovery.  The Evaluation Team will implement a process that includes qualitative and quantitative methods within a Participatory Action Research (PAR) model.  This approach will help insure that key stakeholder views are taken into account in the development of the plan and thus maximizing the comprehensive quality of the effort and the utility of the final product.

During the three-year grant term Project activities will include: (a) developing a valid understanding of the current QA/QI policy and procedures, (b) establishing an advisory committee, (c) using the Participant Action Research Model to develop/revise the final evaluation plan, (d) developing instruments tailored to the SC DDSN system of services and supports, (e) field-testing of the instruments and approaches, implementation of qualitative and quantitative assessment, (f) analysis of assessment results, (g) reporting of results and, (h) working with SC DDSN and key stakeholders to develop a plan of action that responds to the findings of the evaluation process.

The assessment of the validity and reliability of Sudan’s methods of assuring and improving quality will include an examination of the use of the information that is gathered to achieve desired individual and system outcomes.  Focus will additionally be placed on the use and development of effectively working “feedback loops” that channel information received from individuals receiving services, families, service coordinators, direct support staff and others to program administrators to inform decision making and improve quality outcomes.

PERSONNEL:

RELATIONSHIP TO SCUCE:

Technical Assistance:  Provide external evaluation that includes collaboration and recommendations that lead to a responsive system for evaluation of quality and continuous quality improvement.

Research:  Using a Participatory Action Research Model, evaluate the reliability and validity of a quality assurance system used statewide in services for persons with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.