Georgia's DFACS Implements Efficient Reporting and Investigation System for Child Abuse Cases

In a recent meeting of the Georgia Judiciary Juvenile Committee, significant discussions centered around the operations and challenges faced by the Department of Human Services (DHS) and its Division of Family and Children Services (DFACS). The meeting highlighted the structure of DFACS, which employs over 7,000 staff members and is divided into North Metro and South Districts, each overseen by district directors.

A key focus was on Georgia's mandated reporting law, which requires various professionals, including teachers and healthcare workers, to report suspected child abuse. The centralized intake communication center, known as "kick," received nearly 150,000 calls last fiscal year, resulting in approximately 23,000 actual reports of suspected abuse, predominantly from school officials. The top reported issue was neglect.

The meeting also addressed the process of handling these reports. DFACS staff explained that when a report is made, it undergoes a screening process to determine whether it should be investigated. If a case is screened in, a case manager evaluates the situation, which may involve law enforcement if there is a safety threat. The discussion included real-life examples of severe neglect and abuse, emphasizing the emotional and physical trauma involved in child removals.

Innovations in technology were also a highlight, with the introduction of robotic process automation to streamline data entry and improve accuracy in reporting. This advancement has significantly reduced the time case managers spend on administrative tasks, allowing them to focus more on direct support for families.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to improving services and outcomes for children in the system, emphasizing the importance of family reunification and the provision of necessary support services. As DFACS continues to adapt and innovate, the implications for child welfare in Georgia remain critical, with ongoing efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable children.