System of Care Evaluation (SOCE)


Background

To improve the quality of services provided to children and families throughout San Diego, the County of San Diego Children’s Mental Health Services (CMHS) requires that standardized outcome measures be administered to all children and adolescents receiving publicly-funded services. This requirement is detailed in the Organizational Provider Handbook, which is incorporated by reference into contracts.

The Importance of Assessment
Assessing the outcomes of mental health services in valid and reliable ways is critical to the development and maintenance of effective services. A core value and principle of the System of Care is to be accountable through clear outcomes, valid evaluation methods and proficient data management systems. Assessments should be strength-based and services should be outcomes-driven.

Participating Programs
All clients that are receiving services contracted through the CMHS will participate in the System of Care Evaluation, with the exception of clients who are receiving inpatient services or crisis intervention. The following are examples of participating programs:
          • Outpatient Programs
          • Day Treatment Programs
          • Case Management Programs
          • Residential Patch Programs
          • Therapeutic Behavior Services
          • School Based Services
          • Foster Family Services Agency Mental Health Programs