Embedding ECRS into CoQI

CoQI Vision for ECRS

ACS is committed to integrating ECRS into core child welfare practice beyond the CFES initiative to ensure the quality of ECRS services provided and outcomes achieved by ACS-contracted providers. To achieve this long-term vision, the ACS Agency Program Assistance (APA) unit within the Division of Policy, Planning, and Measurement (DPPM) will expand the existing Collaborative Quality Improvement (CoQI) model to incorporate valid and reliable ECRS data indicators developed in the CFES initiative. Providers will collect and report this data on an ongoing basis, allowing APA to make informed assessments about ECRS-focused improvement priorities and collaboratively develop improvement plans over an annual cycle. 

CoQI uses a five-step protocol that follows an annual "Plan-Do-Study-Act" continuous quality improvement process, with periodic status checks between key steps to maintain open communication between APA and providers. CoQI also aligns with the Provider Agency Management System (PAMS) annual review cycle to streamline and optimize the use of data to inform decisions.*

In this way, ECRS will become a core component of APA's functions in:

  1. Monitoring provider performance using quantifiable performance data (e.g., case reviews, interviews, PAMS modules)

  2. Identifying provider-specific strengths and weaknesses through data collected from comprehensive evaluations of ECRS case practice and services delivered

  3. Compiling summary reports comparing performance productivity to stated goals and objectives

  4. Providing guidance and feedback in quality improvement plans with clear expectations and timeframes for improvement

  5. Identifying provider needs for assistance and providing the appropriate assistance to meet those needs

CoQI Measurement Framework for ECRS

While the exact ECRS data indicators and data sources for consideration in CoQI are still being refined, they will be drawn from the data reporting requirements developed in this initiative (see Data Reporting) —specifically, from:

  • Case Planners' progress notes entered in CNNX documenting ECRS activities conducted by case planners (e.g., family engagement, screening, referral) and ECRS activities conducted by Navigators (e.g., assessment, application, securing benefits) that provide a holistic picture of case management centered on ECRS

  • Regular reporting submitted to ACS by both Case Planners and Navigators

CoQI Expectations for Providers

During the testing and redesign phases of the CFES Initiative, providers only need to comply with the data reporting requirements outlined in this playbook. Chapin Hall will coordinate with APA to identify specific parts of the existing CoQI model that need to be modified or expanded. More concrete guidance and training will be provided to providers when the program is being prepared for scaled implementation.

*New York City Administration for Children’s Services. (2018). Agency Program Assistance collaborative quality improvement desk guide. Division of Policy, Planning, and Measurement, New York City Administration for Children’s Services.