Children's Commission Gets Update On DCS Review Process

The Commission on Improving the Status of Children in Indiana met Wednesday in Indianapolis. The group received a brief update of what was happening with the state’s independent assessment of the Department of Child Services.

Newly appointed DCS Director Terry Stigdon says members of the review team have conducted many interviews.

“Providers that partner with DCS to provide care that’s needed to children,” says Stigdon. “They have met with legislators as well.”

A progress report delivered earlier this month notes two problem areas: An outdated computer system that has led to inefficiencies and Indiana is removing higher rates of children from homes.

Stigdon says the next part of the process will branch out to agencies around the state.

“There are five regions they will be in and when they visit each region, they will pull as many DCS employees from that region so they can talk to as many people from as many counties as possible,” says Stigdon.

A final report is expected in a few months.

Directors from the Department of Health and Family and Social Services also addressed the commission to give data on the number of children born with neonatal abstinence syndrome because of a mother’s drug use during pregnancy.