Integrated Practice Model – Intensive Teaming

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2015

Montgomery County Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is a consolidated department that serves the largest and most diverse population in Maryland. The department has implemented an Integrated Services Practice Model to support full integration of service planning and delivery. The first stage was to design and implement an integrated practice model to better serve clients with intensive, multiple, and complex needs. This model emphasizes cross-program teams, a shared case plan, and shared case responsibility among the providers. Private and public partners are included, and clients are engaged to become active participants in the development of their plans. Integrated team meetings are structured and include trained neutral facilitators. The Intensive teaming model provides staff with mechanisms (technology, policies, and procedures) for routinely coordinating services across multiple programs and systems. It supports a “No Wrong Door” approach that enables clients to access any and all available services based on their needs. It also provides staff with quick and easy access to the full range of client services and supports, both within the department and through community partners. Staff and client surveys indicate that many clients with multiple and complex needs are getting better outcomes, feeling more engaged in their service planning, and staff are feeling better supported in their work.