Collaboration

Outcomes Study

In January 2018, the DAETA Team began evaluating CATS programs throughout Oregon. A collaborative process was used to engage the community service providers in the design of the data system.  Data was collected from CATS clinicians, family peer support specialists, as well as the families of youth enrolled in services. Over the course of the study, CATS programs statewide served over 2,600 youth and their families. More than 800 families also provided direct feedback on their experiences, helping shape the CATS program and improve mental health care for youth in Oregon. 

Technical Assistance and Outreach

In addition to conducting the outcomes study, the DAETA Team collaborated with the Oregon Health Authority and CATS service providers to develop strategies for program improvements.  The team provided technical assistance and support to statewide CATS partners through a statewide Learning Collaborative that encouraged group sharing among providers on best practices, as well as individual site dialogues. The team also promoted system-wide improvements and improved access to quality crisis and transition support for all children and families in Oregon through outreach, publications and stakeholder engagement.

Commercial Insurance Workgroup

In 2018, a group was established to look at access barriers related to insurance. Dubbed the CATS Commercial Carriers Workgroup, this group examined CATS services as a package and how this related to individual services more commonly covered in commercial insurance plans.  While the group started with a focus on the CATS program, it expanded its interest in other community-based services, such as IIBHT and MRSS, and developed a Charter with the following purposes:

  • To increase usage and improve access and quality of community-based services and supports available to all youth and families (regardless of payer) when in immediate need.
  • To remove payment barriers by identifying or creating pathways for payment of services provided by CMHPs (a) from commercial insurers and (b) open card funders.
  • To operationally improve connections between providers and payers (i.e. CMHPs, OHP/CCO and commercial insurers).