Foster Care Search System

About the Program

Category: Information Technology (Best in Category)

Year: 2017

The new Foster Care Search System (FCSS) is a web-based application that provides: an automated child placement search; a child placement packet request and miscellaneous services request process with enhanced search capabilities; access to an almost real-time placement vacancy database; and access to a mobile application for placement confirmation and stoppage. Additionally, the application permits searches using a child’s specific behavioral, emotional or physical characteristics to facilitate placements at locations that have the ability to accommodate the specific needs of the child. FCSS streamlines the search process by auto-populating data from the Child Welfare Services/Case Management System (CWS/CMS) DataMart, eliminating the manual process of completing forms and implementing electronic signatures. Having a consolidated, mobile application allows for several important tasks to be completed in the office and during field visits twenty-four hours a day. The convenience of the application is beneficial to Children’s Social Workers (CSW) as they are able to reduce inefficiencies and increase the timeliness of child placements. Since implementation in August 2014, FCSS has processed more than 43,000 placements.