Level of Care (LOC) Services 

Foster Homes Providing Increased Level of Care Services - A small percentage of foster homes provide “specialized care” for children with increased levels of physical, mental or emotional needs who can function within a family setting. Foster parents providing this type care sometimes receive special training in addition to the basic training provided. This prepares them to better understand, accept and manage the child’s physical, emotional/behavioral needs and challenges. Foster homes providing increased levels of care have greater restrictions on the number of children the foster parent can care for at any given time, including their own. 

• Foster Homes Providing Care for the Severely Emotionally Disturbed (SED)- Specially trained foster parents provide care for children who exhibit moderate to severe behavioral management problems, which may include hyperactivity, impulsiveness, defiance, sexual behavior, verbal and/or physical aggression, anxiety, depression, destructiveness, and other behaviors. 
• Foster Homes Providing Care for the Medically Fragile -- Specially trained foster parents provide care for children with acute medical needs. Children in these type placements require specialized care, and intensive supervision and support. These homes must have reasonable access to medical and other community resources. Medical professionals may provide additional training based on the medical needs of the child. 

An increased per diem is provided for all children approved as needing Level of Care services. The amount of the per diem is based on the individual care requirements of each child. Speak with your Case Manager if you feel you are parenting a child who has exceptional parenting needs.

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