title: Introducing Technology in Child Welfare Referrals: A Case Study.
abstract: Access to social services is important for the safety of children and ultimately for reunification of families involved in the child welfare system. The process of linking families to services however, varies by caseworker and can be cumbersome and time-consuming. The DCFS Needs Portal is an internet-based intervention to improve the timing and quality of social service referrals in Los Angeles County We used a case study approach including in-depth interviews, direct observations and user feedback obtained from the Needs Portal to 1) determine perceived benefits and barriers to adopting the Needs Portal and 2) report how the flow of information between users and developers was used to adapt to user needs. Our analyses revealed four major barriers: 1) caseworker apprehension regarding new technology, 2) variation in communication styles by user type, 3) lack of technological infrastructure and 4) competing workplace demands. Information sharing between developers and users has the potential to better meet the needs of users and ultimately maximize utilization of new technology. Although internet-based interventions are designed to inexpensively and effectively coordinate services, emerging interventions may require in-person assistance and modifications in order to succeed.
authors: Department of Community Health Sciences, Fielding School of Public Health, University of California, Los Angeles.
authors: Elinam
authors: E
authors: Dellor
authors: Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles.
authors: Kristina
authors: K
authors: Lovato-Hermann
authors: Division of Social Work, California State University, Sacramento; Prevention Research Center.
authors: Jennifer Price
authors: JP
authors: Wolf
authors: Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles.
authors: Susanna R
authors: SR
authors: Curry
authors: Luskin School of Public Affairs, University of California, Los Angeles.
authors: Bridget
authors: B
authors: Freisthler
keywords: child welfare; information and communication technology; internet; service referral