TITLE 49 SOCIAL SERVICES

Section 5. Programs and Protection for Children and Youth, 49-5-1 through 49-5-281.

ARTICLE 10 CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH SEVERE EMOTIONAL PROBLEMS

49-5-222. Guiding principles for coordinated system of care.

The following ideals shall be the guiding principles for the coordinated system of care:

1. Services shall be child and family centered and give priority to keeping children with their families.Families shall be fully involved in all aspects of planning and delivery of services; however, no family shall be required to accept services for any family member;
2. Services shall be community based, with decision-making responsibility and management at the community level;
3. Services shall be comprehensive, addressing the child's physical, educational, social, and emotional needs;
4. Agency resources and services shall be shared and coordinated with written interagency agreements detailing linkages;
5. Services shall be provided in the least restrictive setting consistent with effective services and as close to the child's home as appropriate;
6. Services shall address the unique needs and potential of each child and shall be sufficiently flexible to meet the individual needs of the child and family;
7. Services shall promote early identification and intervention;
8. Services shall be culturally and ethnically sensitive;
9. All legal rights of these children shall be protected; and
10. The parent or guardian shall be involved in the development of the individualized plan and the delivery of services as defined by the individualized plan.

(Code 1981, §49-5-222, enacted by Ga. L. 1990, p. 1798, § 1.)