Community Systems Integration
Florida Health Partners, Inc. (FHP) acknowledges that care coordination occurs at both an individual and systems level. FHP created the position, Director of Community Systems Integration, in December 2000. Since then, the focus of the position has been to facilitate continuity, coordination, and integration with community organizations that serve FHP members. Systems integration is concerned with developing community linkages and collaboration in order to increase the effectiveness of behavioral health treatment and outcomes.
The following actions support the objectives of systems integration:
- To establish and maintain collaborative relationships with key agencies and organizations
- To represent FHP at community planning forums
- To examine complex system issues
- To identify opportunities for community systems integration and improved services
- To maximize effective utilization of existing community resources
- To identify and address operational barriers
- To initiate plans for the effective coordination of community services
- To support the development of "best practices"
A collective effort is obviously required. Ongoing communications and shared responsibilities across systems of care are key ingredients for developing integrated networks. Consumer input and advocacy is another essential component. Mutual understanding, defined roles and responsibilities, and commitment by community organizations increase the potential for a more effective service delivery system.
The following populations are the primary focus for the clinical systems integration initiative:
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Adults
- Those requiring long term or institutional care
- Those involved in the forensic system
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Children
- Those with serious emotional disturbances
- Those with a history of abuse or neglect
- Those in the care and custody of the State
- Those involved in the juvenile justice system
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Adults and Children with co-occuring disorders
- Medically complex
- Developmentally disabled
- Substance disorders
In many instances, individuals within these populations may be involved with multiple providers, agencies, and programs. Consequently, the effective integration of services will undoubtedly influence the quality of care and behavioral health outcomes for these members.