Program Referrals Presentation

SCHEL Program Referrals Revision 11

Overview

The Revision 11 document elaborates on the procedures, guidelines, and organizational structures involved in managing program referrals specifically for the Texas Department of Criminal Justice (TDCJ). This encompasses comprehensive details on referral processes, performance metrics, and data management systems used to facilitate the efficient handling of offenders within the TDCJ framework.

Resources

  • Directory of Agencies: Comprehensive listings of agencies involved in referral processes.

  • TDCJ Sites: Official websites and platforms providing information on services offered by TDCJ.

  • Board of Pardons and Paroles Sites: Resources related to parole processes and guidelines for offenders seeking parole.

  • Contracted and Non-Contracted Vendors: Information on vendors providing services directly or indirectly related to treatment and rehabilitation.

  • Law Enforcement Agencies: Collaborating agencies that assist in the referral and management of offenders.

  • Out of State Agencies: Resources and partners that influence out-of-state offenders' referrals and services.

Performance Objectives

  • Understanding the Program Referral:

    • Identify and articulate the five parts of the Program Referral screen, which includes categories such as offender details, referral status, service selections, tracking functionalities, and documentation requirements.

    • Recognize the critical time frames for completing the Program Referral documentation and ensure that updates are accurately entered into the Offender Information Management System (OIMS).

    • Determine the various types of resources available for program referrals, ranging from rehabilitation programs to educational services.

    • Outline the essential steps for conducting effective searches within the Resource Directory to enhance placement outcomes.

    • Specify potential reasons for a client’s exemption from a Program Referral, such as compliance issues or other legal constraints.

TRAS Needs (Case Overview)

  • Offender Information:

    • Detailed accounts including demographic information, management contact details, criminogenic domains relevant to the offender, and specific areas that need targeted support and intervention, exemplified through cases such as Tommy Chambless, SID: 08781708.

Tracking & Status Updates

  • Release Location Tracking:

    • Comprehensive information regarding the offender's status, encompassing commit records, demographic data, and detail on any existing detainers or legal holds.

    • The process includes pre-release status assessments, equipment tracking necessary for monitoring, and psychological evaluations.

Special Notes on Program Referrals

  • Program Referral Screens:

    • The system allows providers to add or edit program referrals dynamically, select the most suitable providers, and manage ongoing treatment reporting for enhanced oversight.

    • Updates in various sections of the Program Referral system such as Education, Contact Information, and Scheduling details facilitate communication among service providers.

  • Referral Status Management:

    • Displays current referrals, tracking their status, history, and any relevant commentary regarding their transition and outcomes.

    • Special focus is given to handling educational and vocational program referrals to ensure compliance and successful enrollment.

Attendance & Cost Tracking

  • Referral Attendance Documentation:

    • Accurate documentation is vital for attendance tracking of active program referrals, alongside the recording and reporting of any non-attendance incidents.

    • This includes a detailed tracking mechanism for associated costs and treatment-related activities to enable financial accountability.

Treatment Reports

  • Standard Treatment Reports:

    • Different formats and types of reports catering to specific referral categories, with a significant emphasis on those related to sex offender and substance abuse treatment programs, ensuring adherence to best practice protocols.

Closure Process

  • Program Closure Guidelines:

    • Clearly articulated guidelines specifying how to effectively finalize programs through the Program Referral screen rather than relying solely on treatment reports, ensuring all aspects are correctly closed and documented in the system to maintain clarity in records.

Adding Resources

  • Resource Management:

    • Step-by-step procedures for accurately adding resource information into the system, detailing agency functions and categories of service offered, which is essential for developing a robust resource network.

Time Frame Requirements

  • Completion Timeline for Referrals:

    • All program referrals must be thoroughly finalized during initial office visits or within a strict timeline of no more than 5 business days following the initial report to ensure timely processing.

    • All OIMS updates are mandated to occur within 3 business days after the referral to capture data accurately and promptly.

  • VA and Other Referrals:

    • Special protocols established for clients attending referrals related to Veteran Administration (VA) services, ensuring all necessary documentation is correctly processed and complies with regulations.

Independent Exercises

  • Emphasis on Practical Application:

    • Exercises designed to enhance understanding of the referral process and solidify the performance objectives outlined in this document. These exercises are an essential part of training and continuous professional development for staff involved in the referral process.