While a child with special healthcare needs is in DFPS conservatorship, the caseworker must:

  •   develop an understanding of the child's medical needs and the services recommended by medical professionals;

  •   ensure that the child is receiving the recommended services; and

  •   maintain contact with healthcare providers to ensure that the child's medical needs are being met.

Throughout the case, the caseworker must assess the caregiver's ability to meet the child's ongoing medical needs, working with the child's family, healthcare providers, and collateral to:

  •   conduct ongoing home visits throughout the case to assess the home environment's appropriateness;

  •   ensure that the caregiver is trained to meet or is proficient in meeting the child's special needs, including being trained to use or being proficient in using medical equipment, administering prescribed medication, and providing needed supplies;

  •   ensure that the caregiver has access to and uses the medical equipment recommended by medical professionals; and

  •   assess the child's care during each contact to ensure that the family continues to comply with the recommended medical care (including administering prescribed medication, attending medical appointments, and completing other tasks to meet the child's needs).

See:

6241 The Child's Service Plan

6242 The Family's Service Plan