Cal. Welf. and Inst. Code § 5696.5

Current through the 2023 Legislative Session.

Section 5696.5 - Program standards and policies and procedures

Prior to the opening of a facility, the board of directors shall establish written program standards and policies and procedures, approved by the Division of Juvenile Facilities that address and include, but are not limited to, the following:

(a) A staffing number and pattern that meets the special behavior, supervision, treatment, health, and educational needs of the population described in this chapter. Staff shall be qualified to provide intensive treatment and services and shall include, at a minimum:

(1) A project or clinical director, a psychiatrist or psychologist, a social worker, a registered nurse, and a recreation or occupational therapist.

(2) A pediatrician and a dentist, and a licensed marriage and family therapist or a licensed professional clinical counselor, or both of those professionals, on an as-needed basis.

(3) Educational staff in sufficient number and with the qualifications needed to meet the population served.

(4) Child care staff in sufficient numbers and with the qualifications needed to meet the special needs of the population.

(b) Programming to meet the needs of all wards admitted, including, but not limited to, all of the following:

(1) Physical examinations on admission and ongoing health care.

(2) Appropriate and closely monitored use of all behavioral management techniques.

(3) The establishment of written, individual treatment and educational plans and goals for each ward within 10 days of admission and which are updated at least quarterly.

(4) Written discharge planning that addresses each ward's continued treatment, educational, and supervision needs.

(5) Regular, written progress records regarding the care and treatment of each ward.

(6) Regular and structured treatment of all wards, including, but not limited to, individual, group and family therapy, psychological testing, medication, and occupational, or recreational therapy.

(7) Access to neurological testing and laboratory work as needed.

(8) The opportunity for regular family contact and involvement.

(9) A periodic review of the continued need for treatment within the facility.

(10) Educational programming, including special education as needed.

Ca. Welf. and Inst. Code § 5696.5

Amended by Stats 2011 ch 381 (SB 146),s 46, eff. 1/1/2012.

Amended by Stats 2000 ch 140 (AB 2524), s 1, eff. 1/1/2001.