Study of Service Delivery by Community Mental Health Centers as Perceived by Adult Protective Services Investigators

ABSTRACT

This article provides the results of a qualitative research study to determine the views of Indiana Adult Protective Service (APS) investigators regarding the services and staff of Indiana Community Mental Health Centers (CMHC) with which they interact. Service difficulties and strengths are identified as well as recommendations for improving coordination between the two programs. Many of the problems experienced by APS investigators relate to gaps in services for older adults. Multidisciplinary teams providing in-home evaluations, referral, and treatment are recommended.

KEYWORDS:

• Adult protective services
• endangered adults
• community mental health clinics