Program Implementation

Tips to Implementation: The CASC model provides flexibility in a large social service agency setting to address client needs as well as the large program implementation needs of a county-based system. The balance between systems needs and individual client needs is at the heart of this program. Implementation of new program services is facilitated through this model.

Keys to Success: CASC attributes its success to several mechanisms:

• Developing strong relationships of trust among CASC, DPSS, and community providers through cross-agency and provider training.
• Standardization/continuity in diagnosis and treatment through the use of ASI. All CASC staff are certified in using ASI through training provided by UCLA, which ensures consistency in the application of services across all CASC sites.
• Centralized reporting of aggregate data, providing the capacity to make data-driven decisions and inform program and policy.
• Transparency of the CASC/GAIN system to the client.

Successes: CASC benefits from significant administrative support from DPSS and GAIN staff and community-based providers, thus ensuring clients are able to successfully engage in treatment and fully benefit from the program's employment supports.

Challenges: Challenges include dealing with staff turnover, principally at the DPSS/GAIN site, which results in additional need for training, and distributing treatment services equitably across community providers.