Foster Care: HHS Has Taken Steps To Support States’ Oversight Of Psychotropic Medications, But Additional Assistance Could Further Collaboration

On February 6, 2017, the Federal Government Accountability Office released this report regarding psychotropic medication oversight for those in foster care. The report asserts that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has taken steps to support states' oversight of psychotropic medications, but additional assistance could further collaboration.

State child welfare and Medicaid officials in seven selected states reported a variety of practices to support the appropriate use of psychotropic medications, which affect mood, thought, or behavior, for children in foster care. Practices include screening for mental health conditions, developing prescription guidelines, and monitoring a child’s health while . . .