Navigating the complexities of care for foster children and nonminor dependents (NMDs) requires a robust and equitable system. The Level Of Care Determination Tool plays a crucial role in this process. This article provides an overview of the Level of Care Rate Determination Protocol (LOCP), a strengths-based approach designed to align the specific needs of foster children with the support provided by resource parents. Understanding this tool is essential for county child welfare and probation staff, as well as resource parents seeking clarity on care rates and support levels.
The LOCP utilizes a matrix system that evaluates five core domains to determine the appropriate level of care. These domains encompass critical aspects of a child’s well-being:
- Physical: Assessing the child’s physical health and needs.
- Behavioral/Emotional: Evaluating emotional and behavioral support requirements.
- Health: Considering the child’s overall health status and medical needs.
- Educational: Reviewing educational support and special needs.
- Permanency/Family Services Domain: Focusing on the child’s permanency plan and family service needs.
Each domain is scored individually, and the total score translates into a specific LOCP rate. This rate determines the Home-Based Family Care (HBFC) rate, also known as the Board and Care Rate, paid to resource parents. In situations requiring a higher level of intervention, an Intensive Services Foster Care (ISFC) rate may be applicable. For in-depth information on the LOCP framework, refer to official guidelines such as ACL 16-79 , ACL 17-11, and subsequent updates like ACL 21-17 and ACIN I-73-23. These resources provide comprehensive details about the protocol’s development, implementation, and updates.
For current LOCP rates, consult ACL 24-46. All essential LOCP resources, including the LOCP Scoring Sheet (SOC 500), Matrix (SOC 501), and informative webinars like the “CAC LOCP Webinar (9/21/23)”, are conveniently located at the UC Davis Human Resource Barn. For specific inquiries, you can also reach out via email to [email protected].
Beyond the standard LOCP, additional programs address specialized care needs. The State Guidance for Specialized Care Rate (SCR) Programs is detailed in ACL 18-48 – State Guidance for Specialized Care Rate (SCR) Programs. Furthermore, the Intensive Services Foster Care (ISFC) Program, offering enhanced support, is outlined in ACL 18-25 – Implementation of the Intensive Services Foster Care (ISFC) Program. For situations requiring extra services and supports, the Services-Only Rate is explained in ACL 18-88 – Establishment of a Services-Only Rate to Secure Additional Services and Supports.
To further enhance understanding, several webinars have been conducted on the LOCP. Access recordings and materials from these sessions: CAC LOCP Webinar (9/21/23) Level of Care Webinar Video, (7/13/18) Level of Care Webinar Video, (6/29/18) Level of Care Webinar PowerPoint, (6/29/18) CPOC Level of Care Webinar Recording, (6/11/18) Level of Care (LOCP) Rate Webinar, (3/14/17) Level of Care (LOCP) Training Video, and (11/29/17) Level of Care Webinar Video.
Adoption Assistance Program and Level of Care Protocol
The level of care determination tool also extends to the Adoption Assistance Program (AAP). ACL 21-54 provides guidance on applying the AAP LOC Protocol to determine the maximum eligible AAP LOC Rate for children eligible for adoption assistance.
Resources specifically for the AAP LOC Protocol include the AAP Level of Care Rate Determination Matrix (AAP LOC Matrix) Instruction Guide (AAP 9), AAP LOC Matrix (AAP 9A), AAP Digital Scoring Form (AAP 9B), and the optional Prospective or Adoptive Parent(s) Reporting Tool (AAP 10). These can be accessed through the University of California Davis Resource Barn.
Direct links to these forms on the CDSS website are also available for convenience:
AAP 9 (6/21) – Adoption Assistance Program (AAP) Level Of Care Rate Determination Matrix (AAP LOC Matrix) Instruction Guide
AAP 9A (5/21) – Adoption Assistance Program (AAP) Level Of Care Rate Determination Protocol Matrix
AAP 10 (10/21) – Prospective Or Adoptive Parent(s) Level Of Care (LOC) Reporting Tool
Current AAP rates, effective from July 1, 2024, are detailed in ACL 24-45. For AAP-specific inquiries, contact [email protected].
In conclusion, the level of care determination tool, encompassing both the LOCP and AAP LOC Protocol, serves as a vital instrument in ensuring appropriate and needs-based support for children in foster care and adoption assistance programs. By utilizing a structured and comprehensive approach, these protocols aim to create a fair and effective system that benefits both children and their caregivers.
