Psychotropic Medications - A Guide to Medical Services at CPS
Monitoring Psychotropic Medications
In February 2005, the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS), the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) released a "best practices" guide to ensure the proper use of psychotropic medications for the children in foster care.
The updated December 2010 Psychotropic Medication Utilization Parameters for Texas Foster Children is now available. It serves as a resource for physicians and clinicians who care for children diagnosed with mental health disorders. The guide provides recommendations for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications for foster children and includes eight criteria indicating need for review of the child's clinical status.
Since April 2008, STAR Health has conducted Psychotropic Medication Utilization Reviews (PMURs) on foster children whose medication regimens fall outside of the expectations of the Parameters.The STAR Health PMUR Frequently Asked Questions explains this process and how to request. a review.
As a result of the wide use of the Parameters, the prescription patterns of psychotropic medications for Texas foster children have improved significantly since 2004 as can be demonstrated by the annual HHSC outcomes report - Update on the Use Of Psychotropic Medications in Texas Foster Children.
Links
- The Health Passport (an electronic record) is available for providers and those making medical decisions for the foster children. It can be accessed at FosterCareTx.com.
- The Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Drug Formulary also provides useful information regarding medications and is available at DSHS Drug Formulary website.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - Medication Guides
- National Institute of Mental Health - Mental Health Medications
Archives
- March 2011: Judges' Reference Table for the December 2010 Psychotropic Medication Utilization Parameters for Foster Children
- October 2007: Psychoactive Medication Packet for Judges Presiding Over DFPS Conservatorship Cases
- January 2007: Psychotropic Medication Utilization Parameters for Foster Children
- February 2005: Psychotropic Medication Utilization Parameters for Foster Children
- October 2006: Examining the Foster Care Reimbursement System and Impact on the Prescribing of Psychotropic Medication
- June 2006: Use of Psychoactive Medication in Texas Foster Children State Fiscal Year 2005
- Sept 2004: Advisory Committee Report-The Use of Psychotropic Medications for Children and Youth in the Texas Foster Care System