It is the policy of the Florida Network to utilize a Quality Improvement Process (QIP) that not only ensures accountability and program fidelity, but also encourages high quality and diversity of services, in response to community needs.

Service Providers undergo an annual onsite Quality Improvement Review.

  • The Quality Improvement Review is led by an independent third party contractor and Peer Reviewers who are certified either by the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice or the Florida Network and must demonstrate expertise in serving ungovernable, truant, runaway, or homeless youth. Reviewers are also evaluated for writing skills, professional ethics and ability to assimilate data and provide an informed scoring decision. Children/Families In Need of Services (CINS/FINS) Standards are applicable to all programs subcontracted through the Florida Network of Youth and Family Services to serve prevention youth in accordance with the standard CINS/FINS scope of services. In the event that a contract-based indicator differs from the provider’s contract, the program shall be reviewed according to current contract language.
  • Programs are evaluated based on four Quality Improvement indicators:
    • Management Accountability
    • Intervention and Case Management
    • Shelter Care
    • Health and Mental Health Services
  • Agencies are awarded a Satisfactory Compliance Rating, Limited Compliance Rating, or Failed Compliance rating.

 

Best Care Provider Award

  • Agencies securing a score of Satisfactory without exceptions in all indicators will be recognized by the Florida Network with a Best Care Provider “Besties” Award. This recognition demonstrates the agency’s ability to provide successful therapeutic interventions in a milieu that encourages the safety and well-being for youth and staff alike.
  • 2017 Best Care Provider award winners: Youth and Family Alternatives Rap House, Youth and Family Alternative New Beginnings, and Thaise Educational and Exposure Tour St. Petersburg

The Florida Network Quality Improvement Process incorporates input from service providers, service recipients and professional peers into a system of performance measurement and accountability that analyzes processes, identifies systemic problems, and provides instruction for positive change. On-site training and technical assistance are provided by the Florida Network, resulting in a more resilient and successful program.

The Florida Network hosts the Quality Improvement Committee Meeting twice a year. This event draws Executive leadership, program directors, Clinicians, and support staff together to identify needs the Network can address, share concerns about issues facing the agencies and the communities they serve and invite subject matter experts to share the newest program development knowledge. Each sub-committee identifies strategies and processes for achieving statewide goals and accountability measures. The Quality Improvement Committee provides leadership and expertise in the development of all Florida network policies, procedures and standards.

Training

The Florida Network provides training and support to all agencies on-site and via live or recorded webinars. We have partnered with nationally-recognized evidence based programs to equip staff with the most innovative practices for serving vulnerable youth. By exposing hundreds of staff members to new insights and curricula on a variety of topics, we invested in their knowledge of youth and helped build their confidence in responding to families in crisis.