Back to: System of Care 101
From an overarching perspective, the system of care approach is established on three interrelated components: philosophy, infrastructure, and services and supports.
The philosophy of a system of care approach is based upon a set of core values and principles that in turn offer the foundation for service systems and the services provided.
The infrastructure of a system of care includes governance structure and processes; financing for a wide range of services and supports; formal and informal partnerships among child-serving agencies, providers, families, and youth; provider networks; and the system’s capacity for planning, evaluation, workforce development, and quality improvement.
The services and supports of a system of care include the specific interventions with children, youth, and families at the service delivery level that are consistent with the system of care values and principles.1
- Stroul, B. (2002). Issue Brief. Systems of care: A Framework for System Reform in Children’s Mental Health. Washington, DC: National Technical Assistance Center for Children’s Mental Health, Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development.