Agency of Human Services Programmatic Performance Measure Budget: State Fiscal Year 2025
This Scorecard organizes programs and related performance measures by AHS Department and relevant Act 186 Outcome. It is updated annually as a report to the Agency of Administration to include as supplemental information for the legislative budget process.
The programs and related performance measures are chosen by each Department.
What We Do
The Family Supportive Housing (FSH) Program provides intensive case management and service coordination to homeless families with children and helps house families through partnership with housing providers. The program's goal is to reduce the incidence and duration of homelessness through supports for families as they transition to and sustain permanent housing over time. Service coordination and case management focus on the root causes of a family's homelessness; promote resiliency for parents and their children; and help households build financial capability. FSH staff take a holistic, two-generation approach using non-judgmental, positive, and trauma-informed communication and engagement in their support of families.
Who We Serve
Families with children under the age of six who have had multiple episodes of homelessness or engagement with Family Services are prioritized for the program. OEO administers funding which supports Family Supportive Housing at seven community-based providers: Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Rutland, St. Johnsbury and White River Junction.
How We Impact
Service Coordinators provide customized home-based case management; financial empowerment coaching; life skills support and referrals; tenant education; parent and child resiliency support; and support of addiction recovery. FSH Service Coordinators align and coordinate these services with existing Agency of Human Services programs and initiatives.
Budget Information
|
FSH |
SFY23 Actual |
SFY24 Projected |
SFY25 Governor Recommended |
|
Program Budget |
$1,399,208 |
$3,086,351 |
$3,086,351 (not final) |
What We Do
The BARJ program is an arm of the youth justice system that provides support to youth who are at-risk for involvement in the justice system, or have been adjudicated and may or may not be on probation with DCF - Family Services. The primary goal of the BARJ program is to support youth involved in, or at risk of becoming involved in the justice system by providing restorative interventions that reduce or eliminate further involvement in the system.
Who We Serve
BARJ serves youth who are at risk of becoming involved with the justice system, have been adjudicated or truant from school.
How We Impact
The purpose of this contract is to provide restorative services that focus on accountability and competency development of the youth, and community safety, while including the victims and the community in repairing the harm caused. The Balanced and Restorative Justice (BARJ) program is successful because it offers a variety of supports and services that vary depending on the individual needs of the youth and family. The BARJ program works with youth to support them in:
- Building upon their protective factors;
- Building upon their self-regulation in natural settings; and
- Not committing new offenses.
Budget Information
This is associated with ID # 3440020100.
What We Do
The Strengthening Families grant program provides support to community childcare programs across Vermont to ensure affordable access to high quality comprehensive early care and education services for children and families challenged by economic instability and other environmental risk factors with the overall purpose to support children’s school readiness and assist families in providing stable and supported households for their child(ren).
Who We Serve
These grants serve:
- Children/families eligible for and participating in the CDD Child Care Financial Assistance Program (at least 25% of enrolled children).
- Children/families who are receiving specialized childcare services: including children with an open case with the Family Services Division of the Department for Children and Families (including foster children), children in families participating in Reach Up, refugee children and parenting teens.
How We Impact
The following impact is intended by these grants:
- Documented use of the Center for Social Policy Strengthening Families Program Assessment tool through submission of outcomes and related program plan.
- Continuity of care improves as measured by attendance records and compared to participants in CCFAP including specialized care in other non-Strengthening Families programs.
- 70% of parents report positive family experiences (based on Strengthening Families’ Five Protective Factors Framework™) as part of their overall experience of having an enrolled child in the program.
Budget Information
This is associated with ID # ____.
What We Do
The Office of Child Support (OCS) helps to obtain financial support for families with children by:
- Establishing, enforcing and modifying child support orders for children who do not live with both parents
- Establishing and enforcing medical insurance provisions in court orders
- Collecting, recording and distributing child support payments through the OCS Registry
- Establishing parentage when children are born outside of marriage
Who We Serve
Populations served:
- Parents entitled to medical and child support
- Parents obligated to pay medical and child support
- Guardians entitled to medical and child support
- States seeking assistance in Vermont courts
How We Impact
The Office of Child Support improves the economic security of children and families in Vermont.
Vision:
Every child has the resources needed to be safe, secure, and stable.
Mission:
The Vermont Office of Child Support promotes the well-being of all families by strengthening their financial safety net. We provide quality services and information to parents, caregivers, and community partners involved in the child support process.
Budget Information
This program is associated with Appropriation ID # 3440040000
What We Do
The Vermont Weatherization Program helps lower income residents particularly older Vermonters, people with disabilities, and families with children to save fuel and money by improving the energy efficiency and health and safety of their homes.
Who We Serve
The program serves households who are at or below either 200% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines or 80% of Vermont’s Area Median Income Guidelines. Households are automatically eligible if they are receiving Seasonal Fuel Assistance, have received Reach Up in the past 12 months, or if someone in the household is receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
When a wait list exits, the following households receive priority: those receiving fuel assistance, those living in homes with high fuel usage, households with children, elderly and disabled occupants, and those in the lower income tiers (<60% SMI, and <30% SMI).
How We Impact
The Vermont Weatherization Program provides multiple and significant impacts for the household. The mission of the program is to reduce energy costs for low-income families by improving the energy efficiency and comfort of their homes while ensuring their health and safety. Weatherization improves insulation levels, combustion appliance efficiency and safety, comfort, and the overall health and safety of the household by improving the home. There are significant energy and non-energy benefits of Weatherization.
Budget Information
|
Weatherization |
SFY23 Actual |
SFY24 Projected |
SFY25 Governor Recommended |
|
Program Budget (Dept ID 3440110000) |
$14,462,775 |
$12,672,596 |
$12,555,209 (not final) |
- SFY23 includes $500K of GF one-time funding appropriated by the E-Board.
- These numbers do not include the one-time State Fiscal Recovery ARPA funding that DCF received as part of the SFY22 ($5M) and SFY23 ($45M) budgets to suppor weatherization activities as those are in a one-time Dept ID.
What We Do
The Department of Health Division of Substance Use Programs is made of many programmatic elements that collectively prevent and eliminate the problems caused by alcohol and drug misuse. Our mission is to prevent, reduce and eliminate the problems caused by alcohol and drug use. Strategies used by the various substance use programs include education, prevention, treatment, and recovery. The programs also collaborate with healthcare providers, community partners, and people with lived experience to end stigma and increase opportunities for treatment and recovery.
Some of the specific programs and activities, many of them jointly implemented with valuable partners, include:
- ParentUpVT
- Prevention Consultants
- Do Your Part
- Impaired Driver Rehabilitation Program
- Community Coalitions
- Hub & Spoke System of Care
- Recovery Centers
- School-based Substance Abuse Services
Who We Serve
We serve all Vermonters of all ages, not only those who are directly experiencing substance misuse or directly serving them. We provide prevention services to those of all ages, intervention services to those misusing substances, treatment services to those with substance use disorders, and recovery services to any Vermonter needing support to sustain healthy behaviors. We also support people, organizations, and entire communities working to reduce substance misuse in Vermont through funding, media and promotion campaigns, and coalition building.
How We Impact
Substance Use Programs:
- Improve access to prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery services to address substance use in Vermont.
- Increase understanding of substance use disorders.
- Employ evidence-based practices and strategies.
- Fund services, provide technical assistance and encourage collaboration in communities.
Together with population indicators, the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This program includes the entire appropriation #342006000
What We Do
Tobacco use is the number one preventable cause of death, but about 800 Vermonters still die each year from tobacco-related diseases.
Given the high level of morbidity and mortality related to tobacco use, three goals guide the work of the Tobacco Control Program: prevent youth smoking; reduce adult smoking; reduce exposure to second-hand-smoke. The Health Department Tobacco Control Program employs Centers for Disease Control and Prevention best practice in four key areas to address these goals:
- Cessation services help Vermonters quit smoking through the Quitline, Quit Partners, or Quit Online as part of 802Quits. These services are evidence-based and greatly increase the chances a smoker will quit successfully. The program also partners to provide nicotine replacement therapy
- Mass Reach Media, including hard-hitting ads, is shown to be effective in reaching those who smoke and inciting them to reach out to 802Quits. This includes television, radio, and social media efforts.
- State and community interventions raise awareness on the actions decision makers can take to reduce the toll of tobacco. These include educating decision makers about passing smoke-free policies at local parks and playgrounds, which reduce secondhand smoke exposure and create positive social norms around tobacco use, and changing the tobacco retail environment, where exposure to product and advertising causes youth tobacco initiation. The Vermont Department of Health and the Agency of Education fund two youth tobacco prevention groups – Our Voices Xposed (OVX) in high schools and Vermont Kids Against Tobacco (VKAT) in middle schools.
- Surveillance and evaluation ensure the program stays on track and uses data to drive programmatic decision making. The Tobacco Control Program invests in data collection, analysis, and dissemination to partners in and outside of government.
Who We Serve
The Tobacco Control Program is committed to serving all Vermonters seeking to reduce and quit their tobacco use. Some populations, including pregnant smokers, Medicaid-insured, those with mental illness or substance abuse disorders, less education, and lower income, are a focus of the Health Department. Additionally, supervisory unions with a higher burden of tobacco use are a targeted sector supported by this program. Tobacco use and the morbidity and mortality it causes disproportionally impact those with fewer resources and results in large health disparities.
How We Impact
By employing CDC Best Practices for Comprehensive Tobacco Control Programs with fidelity, the work of the Tobacco Control Program and partners should, over time, impact the number of Vermonters who smoke and therefore reduce deaths from tobacco-related diseases. Quitting tobacco has beneficial short and long term health impacts no matter one’s age. Three behaviors - no physical activity, poor diet, and tobacco use - lead to cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and lung disease accounting for more than 50% of premature deaths in Vermont. Reaching Vermonters that want to quit and supplying the needed cessation support will reduce, over time, the number of Vermonters suffering and dying from chronic disease.
Budget Information
|
Program |
FY23 Actual |
FY24 Projected |
FY25 Governor Recommended |
|
Tobacco Control |
$4,304,731 |
$4,088,918 |
$4,088,918 |
This represents a portion of the Public Health appropriation #3420021000
What We Do
Cancer prevention work in the Vermont Department of Health Division of Health Promotion and Disease Promotion is composed of several programmatic elements, including the Comprehensive Cancer Control program, cancer screening programs, and the Vermont Cancer Registry.
Cancer is a chronic disease affecting thousands of Vermonters. More people die from cancer than any other cause of death in Vermont. The federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides funding for states, tribes and territories to create broad-based partnerships to develop strategic plans for cancer prevention and control within their jurisdictions. As part of Vermont's Comprehensive Cancer Control (CCC) program a statewide cancer coalition was formed, Vermonters Taking Action Against Cancer-VTAAC. The Comprehensive Cancer Control (CCC) Program submits a Cancer Program Collaboration Plan to the CDC on an annual basis. The plan is written by the Cancer Leadership Team which includes Breast and Cervical Cancer Screening (BCC) Program Staff, CCC Program Staff, Vermont Cancer Registry (VCR) Staff, and the coordinator of VTAAC.
The Vermont Cancer Registry collects information about all cancers and benign brain-related tumors (with certain exceptions) that are diagnosed in Vermont. Through interstate agreements, information about Vermonters diagnosed or treated in other states is also included. We conduct research, evaluation and surveillance of cancer. We publish reports containing information about cancer risk factors, prevention, screening, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and survivorship. For more data, visit the Vermont Cancer Surveillance webpage.
Who We Serve
Our goal is to reduce the burden of cancer for all Vermonters by enhancing efforts to prevent, detect and treat cancer as well as improve the lives of cancer survivors and their families. These programs also serve Vermont planners, policy makers, researchers, and citizens by making data available for analysis, planning and action.
How We Impact
The Vermont Department of Health Comprehensive Cancer Control (CCC) program supports activities in which communities and partner organizations pool resources to reduce the burden of cancer. The VTAAC and our network of community, clinical and nonprofit partners work to coordinate evidence-based priority activities. Our annual Cancer Program Collaboration Plan provides a strategic roadmap for reducing the burden of cancer in Vermont.
Cancer Registry data are used to monitor efforts to reduce the impact of cancer on individuals, families and communities. This information drives continued analysis, planning, and action to reduce the burden of cancer in Vermont.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of the Public Health appropriation #3420021000
What We Do
The HIV/STD/Hepatitis Program funds and supports programs that help people at risk for Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD):
- learn how to protect themselves from acquiring STDs and prevent their spread
- access appropriate STD testing
- access and adhere to treatments that can reduce symptoms, improve health, and reduce the risk of transmission
We work with medical providers to ensure that they are best able to perform appropriate STD testing and deliver the best treatment to their patients who are diagnosed with STDs.
Who We Serve
We serve people at risk for STDs and those with an STD diagnosis. Our prevention, testing and treatment programs benefit individuals, their families and all Vermonters.
How We Impact
- Support programs that target those at highest risk with prevention information and supplies
- Perform patient follow-up to ensure treatment success
- Assist patients in voluntary partner notification and partner testing or therapy access
- Work with medical providers to ensure appropriate testing guidelines and treatment strategies are followed
- Work with medical providers to reduce barriers to successful patient treatment access
Budget Information
This represents a portion of the Public Health appropriation #3420021000
What We Do
The Vermont Department of Health Immunization Program provides vaccines to provider practices, educates health care providers and the public regarding immunizations, implements the state immunization regulations, and conducts ongoing assessments of population health status to identify populations at risk for vaccine-preventable diseases. Program activities are developed based on best practices to ensure access to affordable vaccines, support vaccination in the medical home, and provide the public with information needed to vaccinate with confidence.
Who We Serve
The Immunization Program serves all Vermonters with targeted efforts for parents, health care providers, provider practices, and school nurses.
How We Impact
The Immunization Program ensures adults and children have access to all recommended vaccines at their medical home and works to effectively limit vaccine preventable disease. Together with population indicators, the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Investment objective: Encourage the formation and maintenance of public-private partnerships in health care, including initiatives to support and improve the health care delivery system.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of the Public Health appropriation #3420021000
Budget information
This is associated with ID #3460020000.
What We Do
Vermont's Area Agencies on Aging build a coordinated response to self-neglect through a variety of activities. These include raising awareness, providing education, training and case management to individuals considered self-neglecting.
Who We Serve
Adults, 60 years and older, who can be described as self-neglecting.
How We Impact
The Area Agencies on Aging respond to self-neglect referrals and provide case management services to those who are identified as self-neglecting. Case managers work with individuals who are self-neglecting to develop goals identified by the individual and by use of a risk and safety evaluation tool. Goals may be related to food, shelter, medical/mental/financial health or in other areas. To help achieve these goals community partners and resources are accessed and leveraged. Where resources don't exist, the Area Agencies on Aging work to build awareness and capacity.
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460020000.
What We Do
HomeShare Vermont provides screening, matching and ongoing support services for older Vermonters and Vermonters with disabilities who wish to continue living in their own homes (hosts), pairing them with others (guests) who are looking for affordable housing. These matches allow people to remain at home and to receive help with yard work, light chores, homemaking services, transportation, or companionship in exchange for reduced rent from the guest.
Who We Serve
HomeShare Vermont serves Vermonters who are looking to share housing for mutual benefit. Most people sharing their homes (hosts) are older Vermonters or Vermonters with disabilities. People looking for housing (guests) are financially challenged by market rents or are in housing transitions. HomeShare Vermont serves Chittenden, Addison, Franklin, Grand Isle, Washington, Orange, and Lamoille Counties.
How We Impact
HomeShare Vermont:
- Helps make housing more affordable for Vermonters
- Helps older Vermonters and Vermonters with disabilities live in their own homes
- Helps improve the quality of life for homesharing participants, who report that they feel safer, less lonely, eat better, and feel healthier
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460020000.
What We Do
SASH coordinates the resources of social-service agencies, community health providers and nonprofit housing organizations to support Vermonters who choose to live independently at home. Individualized, on-site support is provided by a Wellness Nurse and a SASH Care Coordinator.
https://sashvt.org/
Who We Serve
SASH serves older adults as well as people with special needs who receive Medicare support. SASH touches the lives of approximately 4,500 people throughout Vermont.
How We Impact
Benefits to SASH Participants:
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Improved quality of life
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Comprehensive health and wellness assessments
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Individualized Healthy Living Plans
-
Money savings through preventive health care
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Regular check-ins by caring staff
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Health coaching and access to wellness nurses
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Help in planning for successful transitions (e.g., following hospitalization), navigating long-term care options and during a crisis
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Access to prevention and wellness programs
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Support in self-managing medications
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460010000.
What We Do
Survey and Certification (S&C) is the State Survey Agency for the State of Vermont. In this role, S&C licenses and certifies health care organizations to ensure that they meet minimum state and federal regulatory compliance. S&C fulfills its mission by conducting unannounced, regular surveys at health care facilities, and investigating complaints made about the care received in these facilities.
Who We Serve
S&C provides balanced and assertive regulation of health care organizations to ensure that Vermonters receive care with dignity, respect, and independence.
How We Impact
S&C surveys and investigations can result in fines and other corrective action, including bans on admissions or revocation of operating licenses.
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460040000.
What We Do
Division Philosophy
DVR's mission is to help Vermonters with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful careers and to help employers recruit, train, retain and promote employees with disabilities. Consumer choice and self-direction are core values that drive DVR’s approach to providing services and developing new programs. DVR's ability to help jobseekers succeed also depends on clearly understanding needs of our other customer – employers. To that end, DVR plays an important facilitating role in Creative Workforce Solutions (CWS), an Agency of Human Services (AHS) initiative that builds on DVR’s initial employer outreach work.
Division Overview
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation serves people with disabilities in Vermont who face barriers to employment. We help VR consumers figure out what work will work for them through careful assessment, counseling and guidance from our expert staff. We capitalize on our extensive networks in the employer community to create job opportunities and make good placements that match employer needs with jobseeker skills, and help employers retain staff with disabilities. We use our financial resources within Vermont communities to support our consumers as they transition to stable employment, and our employers as they try out new workers.
Who We Serve
The Division of Vocational Rehabilitation serves people with disabilities in Vermont who face barriers to employment.
How We Impact
Staff and Partners
DVR believes in collaborating with other service providers to reach people facing the greatest challenges to employment. As a result, DVR has created innovative partnerships to serve youth, offenders, veterans, people receiving public benefits, individuals with substance use disorders, and those who need ongoing support in order to work.
Recent Developments and Accomplishments
The Summer Career Exploration Program (SCEP): In 2021 DVR launched the Summer Career Exploration Program (SCEP). The SCEP was designed to provide high school students with disabilities paid summer work experiences combined with a career exploration curriculum. This is the first time DVR has implemented a summer employment program for students and planning had to start before COVID vaccines were available so it wasn't clear whether we would be able to conduct it in person. But engagement with work-based learning over the summer was a high priority after the disruptions of the pandemic year. Despite the challenges, district DVR teams created amazing opportunities for youth, while engaging employers who were facing their own challenges amid the pandemic. DVR saw a need and committed to creating what became an outstanding experience for all involved. The following is a brief summary of the outcomes:
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SCEP provided 144 students with a paid work experience with a local employer.
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SCEP engaged 110 employers in providing work experiences for students.
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SCEP included all students with disabilities, regardless of the level of support required for them to be successful.
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34 students were offered competitive employment after completing the SCEP program (23.6% of participants).
DVR has already begun planning a SCEP for 2022. DVR will use lessons learned in the first year to enhance and improve the experience for future participants.
Kessler Foundation Grant/WorkVT2.0: DVR was selected by the Kessler Foundation to receive a grant designed to improve employment prospects for DVR consumers who receive Social Security disability benefits (SSI and SSDI). Vermont was one of only 6 projects to be selected out of over 70 applications. The project provides an innovative combination of services and financial incentives to help beneficiaries obtain income sufficient enough to end their benefits. The project has two sites, one in Burlington and one in Rutland.
DVR named the project WorkVT2.0 and began recruitment in March 2021 after a one-year delay due to COVID. As of September 30, 2021, over 50 beneficiaries have signed up to receive WorkVT2.0 services. The project is already showing some early successes with four participants working full time and no longer receiving SSI/SSDI benefits. Another sixteen participants have started working part time with the goal of increasing their hours and income over time.
Future Directions
DVR is making a major effort to support consumer participation in post-secondary training leading to industry-recognized credentials in high demand fields. This is the most effective and efficient route to consumers achieving high quality and high wage employment. It is also aligns with employers’ needs for skilled workers. The following are major initiatives we are embarking on in 2022 to support this effort.
The Vermont Career Advancement Project (VCAP): DVR was awarded a $6.5 million grant from the US Department of Education to support the Vermont Career Advancement Project (VCAP). VCAP will establish a robust partnership between DVR, the Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL), the Community College of Vermont (CCV), Vermont Technical College (VTC), and secondary Career and Technical Education Centers (CTEs), to build on-ramps enabling individuals with disabilities to pursue high quality, good paying careers. The project will embed dedicated Career Pathways Student Advisors in these post-secondary programs to provide intensive support for VCAP participants. VCAP will also partner with other work force development organizations to expand paid, credentialed, occupational training programs in response to employer needs.
Utilizing the best available employment projections for high quality, high wage career pathway opportunities in Vermont, DVR identified the following five career sectors for the project: Advanced Manufacturing, Financial Services, Healthcare, Skilled Construction Trades, and Information Technology. VCAP will utilize its extensive network of employer contacts through its Business Account Managers to engage employers in offering opportunities in these sectors. CCV and VTC, which have program development experience and expertise, will provide the required Related Instruction for apprenticeships and other credentialed programs. These programs will be linked directly to secondary and adult programs offered through the State’s 17 Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers. The project will enroll 500 participants, with 375 earning Industry Recognized Credentials and 75 enrolling in Registered Apprenticeships. 75% of participants will exit their training programs employed and earning at least 150% of the state’s minimum wage.
The Career Training Offset (CTO): DVR has long recognized that many of our consumers cannot participate in industry recognized credential training programs because they cannot afford to stop working. As a result, they remain in entry level employment without the training and skills to move up the career ladder. To address this issue, DVR implemented the Career Training Offset (CTO). DVR consumers participating in trainings that leads to an industry recognized credential, are paid minimum wage for classroom and unpaid instruction time. For example, an HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) program has approximately 144 hours of unpaid training time. DVR will pay the consumer minimum wage for these hours, to ensure they have a steady source of income while they get trained. The CTO was launched October 4th of 2021 and we expect it to have a significant impact.
New Partnerships with Training Providers: DVR has always referred consumers to workforce training programs and provided financial support. This year DVR is entered into partnerships with of the following training providers to enroll cohorts of DVR consumers in credentialed training programs:
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Resource Inc will provide 72 DVR consumers access to the following training programs:
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Construction 101 which will lead to NCCER (National Center for Construction Education and Research), and OSHA 10 (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) certifications.
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HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, Airconditioning) which will lead to Natural Gas/LP EPA Class 1 and OSHA 10 certifications.
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CLT (Certified Logistics Technician) which will lead to CLT and OSHA 10 certifications.
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Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) will provide DVR consumers training and certifications in weatherization and green energy.
DVR also plans to create new workforce training partnerships with CCV and VT Technical College during 2022 and 2023.
Programs and Services
Vocational Rehabilitation Services: DVR services to jobseekers are tailored to the person and driven by his or her own interests, job goals and needs. Each person meets regularly with his or her VR counselor, who helps to develop an Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) and manages the services and supports needed to realize the person’s career goals. The core services of vocational assessment, counseling and guidance, job training, and job placement provided by DVR staff and partners are enhanced with a range of purchased services and supports.
Placement Services: DVR counselors benefit from dedicated Employment Consultants who provide job development, job placement, and workplace supports to help people find and keep jobs. DVR has longstanding partnerships with Designated and Specialized Services Agencies (DAs and SSAs) to provide supported employment services to people with significant disabilities. DVR also has an ongoing partnership with the Vermont Association of Business, Industry, and Rehabilitation (VABIR) to provide employment services to DVR customers.
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460030000.
What We Do
The Division for the Blind and Visually Impaired (DBVI) is the designated state unit to provide vocational rehabilitation and independent living services to eligible Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired. DBVI's Mission is to support the efforts of Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired to achieve or sustain their economic independence, self reliance, and social integration to a level consistent with their interests, abilities and informed choices.
Who We Serve
DBVI serves Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired.
How We Impact
DBVI supports Vermonters who are blind and visually impaired to achieve or sustain their economic independence, self reliance, and social integration to a level consistent with their interests, abilities and informed choices.
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460070000.
What We Do
The Vermont Brain Injury Program supports Vermonters with a moderate to severe brain injury, diverting or helping them return from hospitals and rehabilitation facilities to a community-based setting. This program is focused on rehabilitation and driven by participant choice, supporting individuals to achieve their optimum level of independence and to return to work.
Who We Serve
The Vermont Brain Injury Program serves Medicaid eligible Vermonters with a moderate to severe brain injury.
How We Impact
The Vermont Brain Injury Program helps Medicaid eligible Vermonters with moderate to severe brain injuries to achieve their optimum level of independence and to return to work.
Budget information
This is associated with Appropriation ID #3460050000.
What We Do
Project SEARCH prepares student-interns during their last year of high school or transition age adults with technical skills taught through several training rotations within a host business which lead to competitive employment upon high school graduation.
Who We Serve
Transition age youth age 18 to 26 who are eligible for developmental disabilities services.
How We Impact
The Project SEARCH model assures a smooth transition into the Vermont workforce for transition age youth by providing marketable technical skills and person-centered job placement.
Budget Information
| Correctional Services | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $98,449,662.10 | $102,460,311.00 | $105,534,120.33 |
| (Appropriation #3480004000) |
What We Do
Facility (Incarceration) Statuses:
Sentenced Statuses:
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Sentenced: convicted of crime(s)
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Sentenced/Detained: convicted of crime(s) and held pre-trial for other crime(s)
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Sentenced W/Hold: convicted of crime(s) and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
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Sentenced/Detained W/Hold: (rare) convicted of crime(s), held pre-trial for other crime(s), and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Detained Statuses:
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Detained: awaiting adjudication for crime(s)
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Detained W/Hold: awaiting adjudication for crime(s) and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Hold Status:
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Hold: held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Field (Community Supervision) Statuses:
Furlough:
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Community Supervision Furlough (Primary furlough status): At the completion of the minimum term of sentence, the incarcerated individual may be released to the community under conditions of furlough.
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Treatment Furlough: A status for an individual who is participating in an approved residential treatment program outside of a correctional facility.
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Medical Furlough: A status for an individual who is diagnosed with a terminal or debilitating condition. The individual may be released to a hospital, hospice, or other licensed in-patient facility, or other housing accommodation deemed suitable by the Commissioner.
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Pre-Approved Furlough: Sentenced to confinement with prior approval of the Commissioner of Corrections, the individual is eligible for immediate release on furlough. Furlough status is a community placement, but with more stringent rules for behavior. Conditions of release typically contain treatment or community work crew.
Parole: The release of an incarcerated individual to the community before the end of their sentence subject to conditions imposed by the Parole Board and subject to the supervision and control of the Commissioner of Corrections. Includes:
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Supervised Community Sentence: Based on a law passed in 1990, the judge sentences, with prior approval of the Commissioner of Corrections, to a set of conditions, minimum and maximum time frames and an intermediate sanctions program under the supervision of the Department of Corrections. The Parole Board is the appointed authority and violations are resolved through a Parole Hearing.
Community Restitution Program (Work Crew): The Community Restitution Program allows an individual convicted of crimes to successfully make amends to the community through structured work contracted with municipalities, state agencies, and local non-profit organizations.
Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision (ICOTS): The Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision (ICAOS) is charged with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the ICAOS, a formal agreement between member states that seeks to promote public safety by systematically controlling the interstate movement of certain adult offenders. Through this contract, Vermont can send individuals for out-of-state supervision and other states can send individuals to Vermont for supervision. The latter individuals will be categorized by their supervision type (e.g., probation, parole) in this report.
Probation: An individual found guilty of a crime upon verdict or plea, is released by the court without confinement, subject to the conditions and supervision by the Commissioner of Corrections. This is a contract between the individual and the court, to abide by conditions in return for the court not imposing a sentence of confinement. Violation of this sanction requires due process, with a court hearing, counsel, and preponderance of evidence. Within the probation sanction is the reparative probation program, which allows citizens on community panels to determine the quality of restitution made to the victim and repair of harm to the community, consistent with 28 VSA Chapter 12.
Absconder: When an individual on a community supervision status has unknown whereabouts, they are considered an absconder. The Parole Board, Courts, or the Commissioner issues an arrest warrant. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for fulfilling the arrest warrant and returning the individual to the VT DOC.
Who We Serve
The DOC serves the community as a partner in prevention, research, management, and intervention of criminal behavior. The DOC operates correctional facilities in: Newport, Rutland, South Burlington, Springfield, St. Albans, and St. Johnsbury.
How We Impact
By cultivating meaningful partnerships with communities and those in custody or under supervision, the VT DOC provides justice-involved individuals with opportunities for self-improvement while advancing restorative justice principles. The VT DOC performs an important role in the State’s response to crime, individuals under supervision, and victims. It is a unified system of 6 correctional facilities and 12 field offices geographically spread across the state. This structure greatly enhances the ability to implement systemic changes that are evidence-based and focus on best practices for successful reentry. Correctional facilities implement programs that provide custodial confinement of frequent, dangerous individuals, and also have a primary objective to prepare offenders for their responsible roles in the community upon release.
Correctional facilities utilize the supporting resources of probation and parole services. Additionally, the VT DOC is located within the Agency of Human Services (AHS) and draws upon the resources housed with AHS to support its mission. AHS has the widest reach in state government and a critical mission: to improve the conditions and well-being of Vermonters and protect those who cannot protect themselves.
Budget Information
| Health Services | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $33,111,929.06 | $33,028,353.00 | $34,019,203.59 |
| (Appropriation #3480004000) |
What We Do
The DOC is responsible for ensuring healthcare is provided to incarcerated individuals as guaranteed by the 8th Amendment of the United States Constitution, required by state law, and in compliance with the National Commission for Correctional Healthcare (NCCHC) standards. The DOC Healthcare Services Division (HSD) oversees a comprehensive health services program defined as an integrated, holistic system of care that includes but is not limited to medical, mental health, substance abuse, dental, vision, on-site and off-site specialty, pharmacy, care coordination, and emergency services. Comprehensive health services shall be provided to incarcerated individuals housed at any Vermont DOC facility throughout the state. In addition, the Vermont DOC system is designed to provide the prevailing Vermont standard of healthcare to all incarcerated individuals up to hospital level of care. When hospital level of care and or specialty care is medically necessary, individuals are taken to the community-based hospital or specialist that can best address their needs.
To accomplish this, the DOC partners with:
- Other departments within Vermont's Agency of Human Services (AHS) including Department of Mental Health (DMH), Department of Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), Department of Vermont Health Access (DHVA), and Vermont Department of Health (VDH).
- Community-based organizations including Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Vermont's Opioid Use Disorder Treatment System "hubs and spokes," Designated Agencies (DAs), Specialized Services Agencies (SSAs), Vermont Chronic Care Initiative (VCCI), Planned Parenthood of Northern New England (PPNNE), Prisoners' Rights Office (PRO), Disability Rights Vermont (DRVT), Vermonters for Criminal Justice Reform (VCJR), and Vermont Information Technology Leaders (VITL).
- Other local health systems including the University of Vermont Medical Center and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.
- The Vermont Program for Quality in Health Care (VPQHC).
Who We Serve
Comprehensive health services are provided to all individuals housed in Vermont's correctional facilities regardless of legal status.
How We Impact
Comprehensive health services provided in Vermont correctional facilities are designed to achieve high standards regarding the following factors:
- Continuity of care - Providing ongoing and uninterrupted treatment for individuals that are admitted to and released from DOC facilities
- Data collection, analysis, and sharing - Collecting, analyzing, and monitoring individual and system health data to achieve transparency, establish accountability, and improve performance
- Quality of Care - Improving care and outcomes through Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) including regular auditing, reviews of sentinel events, and performance-based indicators
- Financial management - Ensuring best use of public funding
Budget Information
| Correctional Services | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $30,714,369.34 | $32,715,896.00 | $33,697,372.88 |
| (Appropriation #3480004000) |
What We Do
Facility (Incarceration) Statuses:
Sentenced Statuses:
-
Sentenced: convicted of crime(s)
-
Sentenced/Detained: convicted of crime(s) and held pre-trial for other crime(s)
-
Sentenced W/Hold: convicted of crime(s) and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
-
Sentenced/Detained W/Hold: (rare) convicted of crime(s), held pre-trial for other crime(s), and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Detained Statuses:
-
Detained: awaiting adjudication for crime(s)
-
Detained W/Hold: awaiting adjudication for crime(s) and held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Hold Status:
-
Hold: held for US Marshals or other jurisdiction
Field (Community Supervision) Statuses:
Furlough:
-
Community Supervision Furlough (Primary furlough status): At the completion of the minimum term of sentence, the incarcerated individual may be released to the community under conditions of furlough.
-
Treatment Furlough: A status for an individual who is participating in an approved residential treatment program outside of a correctional facility.
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Medical Furlough: A status for an individual who is diagnosed with a terminal or debilitating condition. The individual may be released to a hospital, hospice, or other licensed in-patient facility, or other housing accommodation deemed suitable by the Commissioner.
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Pre-Approved Furlough: Sentenced to confinement with prior approval of the Commissioner of Corrections, the individual is eligible for immediate release on furlough. Furlough status is a community placement, but with more stringent rules for behavior. Conditions of release typically contain treatment or community work crew.
Parole: The release of an incarcerated individual to the community before the end of their sentence subject to conditions imposed by the Parole Board and subject to the supervision and control of the Commissioner of Corrections. Includes:
-
Supervised Community Sentence: Based on a law passed in 1990, the judge sentences, with prior approval of the Commissioner of Corrections, to a set of conditions, minimum and maximum time frames and an intermediate sanctions program under the supervision of the Department of Corrections. The Parole Board is the appointed authority and violations are resolved through a Parole Hearing.
Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision (ICOTS): The Interstate Commission for Adult Offender Supervision (ICAOS) is charged with overseeing the day-to-day operations of the ICAOS, a formal agreement between member states that seeks to promote public safety by systematically controlling the interstate movement of certain adult offenders. Through this contract, Vermont can send individuals for out-of-state supervision and other states can send individuals to Vermont for supervision. The latter individuals will be categorized by their supervision type (e.g., probation, parole) in this report.
Probation: An individual found guilty of a crime upon verdict or plea, is released by the court without confinement, subject to the conditions and supervision by the Commissioner of Corrections. This is a contract between the individual and the court, to abide by conditions in return for the court not imposing a sentence of confinement. Violation of this sanction requires due process, with a court hearing, counsel, and preponderance of evidence. Within the probation sanction is the reparative probation program, which allows citizens on community panels to determine the quality of restitution made to the victim and repair of harm to the community, consistent with 28 VSA Chapter 12.
Absconder: When an individual on a community supervision status has unknown whereabouts, they are considered an absconder. The Parole Board, Courts, or the Commissioner issues an arrest warrant. The Department of Public Safety is responsible for fulfilling the arrest warrant and returning the individual to the VT DOC.
Who We Serve
The DOC serves the community as a partner in prevention, research, management, and intervention of criminal behavior.
The DOC currently has probation and parole offices in the following locations: Barre, Bennington, Brattleboro, Burlington, Hartford, Middlebury, Morrisville, Newport, Rutland, St. Albans, St. Johnsbury, and Springfield.
How We Impact
Community supervision of individuals is managed by 12 field probation and parole offices throughout the state. Supervision practices are based on research and the availability of resources. DOC structures supervision intensity based on the individual’s risk to re-offend and the severity of the offense. The foundations of effective supervision are quality risk assessment and the application of appropriate supervision services. It is the implementation of purposeful interventions and activities that distinguishes supervision from mere monitoring and reporting of an individual's activities. Research has demonstrated that to reduce recidivism and obtain positive results from community supervision, combining risk control and risk reduction strategies is far more effective than selecting one strategy over the other. Risk control strategies are directed at deterring future non-compliance by holding individuals accountable through reprimands. Risk reduction strategies are directed at promoting future compliance by assisting the individual through information, education/training, counseling, programming, treatment, or other needs-reducing services to bring about positive changes in the circumstances that led to the non-compliant behavior. DOC implementation of evidence based practices contributes to successful completion of an individual's sentence with goal of reducing future criminal behavior.
Budget Information
| Parole Board | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $472,229.00 | $504,635.00 | $519,774.05 |
| (Appropriation #3480002000) |
What We Do
The Parole Board is an autonomous body that is included in the Corrections appropriation for administrative purposes. The Board reviews referrals by the DOC for individuals incarcerated or on community supervision furlough who are eligible for parole consideration to include initial eligibility hearings, presumptive parole administrative reviews, or subsequent reviews. The Board reviews all requests to address allegations of violation of conditions of parole supervision through a reprimand hearing or a formal violation hearing. The Board reviews requests for condition modifications, parole rescission, or early discharge. In addition, the Parole Board is responsible for reviewing all individuals placed on Supervised Community Supervision (SCS) at the expiration of their minimum sentence to determine if the individual should be discharged or to continue the individual on SCS. The Board is also responsible for reviewing all requests to address violation of conditions for individuals on SCS.
Who We Serve
The Parole Board serves the community by rendering just decisions by balancing victim needs, the risk to public safety, while promoting offender accountability success.
How We Impact
The Parole Board works in partnership with the DOC to comply with the principle that placement of offenders should be in the least restrictive environment consistent with public safety and offense severity. The Board’s implementation of evidence-based decision making and conditioning contributes to achieving this principle.
Budget Information
| Transitional Housing | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $ 6,588,541.24 | $ 7,017,199.73 | $ 7,227,715.72 |
| (Appropriation #3480007000) |
*Note: Transitional housing is now paid out of appropriation 7000 (not 4000). The information reported only reflects the amount for transitional housing and not the entire appropriation.
What We Do
Through grants to community partners, the DOC supports the provision of transitional housing, rental assistance, housing search and retention, and other supportive services for individuals released to the community from Vermont's correctional facilities. The primary purposes of the program are to:
- Promote housing stability of individuals returning to the community from incarceration;
- Supervise and support individuals in the least restrictive environment (conducive with public safety); and
- Provide opportunities for reintegration and connections to community and services.
With a safe, stable place to live, participants are able to find employment, engage in substance abuse and mental health treatment, pursue education or training opportunities, and connect to services that will support their long-term stability in the community.
Who We Serve
Priority is given to individuals being released to the community from incarceration, as well as individuals who are supervised in the community and are at risk of being (re)incarcerated due to lack of appropriate and stable housing. Most participants are on furlough/conditional reentry status, and all participants are under some level of Department of Corrections (DOC) supervision.
The individuals we serve have multiple and complex needs often related to mental health, substance abuse, employment, transportation, rental history (or lack thereof), and education, just to name a few.
How We Impact
The DOC works in partnership with Designated Agencies, Public Housing Authorities, Community Justice Centers, affordable housing providers, private landlords, municipalities, and non-profit organizations.
To gauge whether participants are "Better Off" after having participated in transitional housing programs, we measure the following:
- % who were not charged with a new crime while in the program;
- % of participants who were employed, enrolled in an educational or training program, or receiving benefits (TANF, SSI, VA, General Assistance, etc.) at exit; and
- # (and %) who exited to permanent housing (included in this report).
Additionally, program activities support community connections and integration.
Budget Information
| Behavior and Life Skill Interventions | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $3,246,040.00 | $3,419,907.00 | $3,522,504.21 |
| (Appropriation #3480004000) |
What We Do
The purpose of risk intervention services is to increase public safety by providing services which reduce the risk of an offender committing a new crime. Research demonstrates that services which adhere to risk, need and responsivity (RNR) principles have the greatest impact on reducing recidivism. The effects of services are most profound when applied to supervised and/or incarcerated individuals who have the higher risk of recidivism and focus upon the dynamic risk factors which are correlated with the risk of recidivism, are responsive to the capacities of the offender and use evidence-based modalities with fidelity.
Who We Serve
Risk Intervention Services Division provides services in three main units: Behavioral Health, Education and Vocational Services. The data in this section are the programming component. Corrections Education and Vocational Services are captured in subsequent sections. Criteria for mandated facility RIS programming is that offenders must have listed violent offense, be assessed moderate to high risk on a risk assessment and have adequate sentence structure to complete services. Services are comprised of evidenced based manualized curricula addressing multiple criminogenic needs and are delivered in group modality. Each curriculum is delivered in two weekly sessions in twelve-week quarters. Participants participate in two to three curricula per week for a minimum of six months.
How We Impact
The Behavioral and Skill Unit comprises clinicians, trained Interventionists, and educators at four correctional facilities in Vermont. This fiscal year, it hired contractors, trained contractors, and delivered services.
Contractor Interventions: At each site, clinicians are either Master’s level, state-licensed, or trained to deliver Cognitive behavioral Therapeutic Interventions. While an individual is in Behavioral Health programming, the contractors assess each participant during their interventions to identify high-risk areas to integrate into their treatment plan. A goal for the fiscal year 2024 and the Behavioral Health unit is to identify evidence-based screening tools to help isolate and individualize one’s RNR need areas.
Transitional Services: Each Behavioral Health participant creates a personalized Success Plan completed while in Behavioral Health groups. A Success Plan aims to highlight the individual strengths that will help them succeed in the community while addressing any challenges they foresee and how they will address them. The Behavioral Health team offers community providers recommendations on areas the individual may benefit from addressing when they return to the community
Budget Information
| Vermont Correctional Industries | FY22 Actual | FY23 Budget | FY24 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $1,580,085.45 | $1,699,065.00 | $1,719,312.00 |
| (Appropriation #3675001000) |
What We Do
The purpose of risk intervention services is to increase public safety by providing services which reduce the risk of an offender committing a new crime. Research demonstrates that services which adhere to risk, need and responsivity (RNR) principles have the greatest impact on reducing recidivism. The effects of services are most profound when applied to offenders who have the higher risk of recidivism and focus upon the dynamic risk factors which are correlated with the risk of recidivism, are responsive to the capacities of the offender and use evidence-based modalities with fidelity.Who We Serve
Risk Intervention Services includes Behavior and Life Skill Interventions, Corrections Education and Vermont Correctional Industries. The data in this section are Vermont Correcitonal Industries section. Vermont Correctional Industries provides sentenced incarcerated indivdiuals who are moderate to high risk an opportunity to improve their vocational and workforce readiness. Individuals apply for open positions in one or more of the industustries and applications are reviewed by a local team comprised of VCI Program Coordinator, Facility Security, and Facility Case Work.
How We Impact
Vermont Correctional Industries (VCI) work with incarcerated individuals in several shops, Print & Bindery, Street Sign, License plates, and Wood shop, to provide needed job skills. VCI delivers a real-world work experience for the incarcerated individuals to learn on the job skills, soft skills and transferable skills by practicing empowerment, self-directed decision-making, quality customer service, and professionalism.Budget Information
| Education Services | FY24 Actual | FY25 Budget | FY26 Governor Recommended |
| Program Budget | $4,351,652.00 | $4,653,803.00 | $4,793,417.09 |
| (Appropriation #3480003000) |
What We Do
The purpose of risk intervention services is to increase public safety by providing services which reduce the risk of an individual committing a new crime. Research demonstrates that services which adhere to risk, need and responsivity (RNR) principles have the greatest impact on reducing recidivism. The effects of services are most profound when applied to those who have the higher risk of recidivism and focus upon the dynamic risk factors which are correlated with the risk of recidivism, are responsive to the capacities of the offender and use evidence-based modalities with fidelity.
Who We Serve
Risk Intervention Services- Corrections Education serves incarcerated individuals with a focus on the sentenced population. Services are delivered to both voluntary students and those students identified as priority for Risk Reduction Programming who are scheduled for release from incarceration.
How We Impact
Corrections Education offers incarcerated adults the opportunity to work on developing basic and living skills necessary to be successful in the community and to develop as a learner. By working with the Risk Reduction Programming Intervention staff we assist students in learning cognitive and educational skills that address their specific criminogenic needs. Our high school program offers an accredited high school education, and our students receive the same level of diploma as their peers. Our high school program, Community High School of Vermont, meets the educational standards set by the Vermont Board of Education. For incarcerated individuals needing to brush up their skills for employment, or who are interested in getting certified with Industry Recognized Credentials, or taking a Community College of Vermont (CCV) or University of Vermont (UVM) course, we offer our workforce readiness program. Workforce Readiness is designed for students who have or are close to achieving their high school diploma and is designed to meet Vermont’s workforce needs. Working with our peers in Vermont Correctional Industries (VCI) we can offer both classroom and on the job experience which is transitioning to Vocational Services.
What We Do
The Vermont Department of Mental Health works in partnership with other state and community partner organizations to promote effective evidence-based interventions at 3 different levels: Universal (general population), Selective (subpopulations), and Indicated (individuals). Additionally, Vermont's 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7/365 for anyone experiencing a mental health issue.
Who We Serve
Any person in Vermont who is at risk for suicide is served by the State of Vermont's comprehensive approach to suicide prevention.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
Emergency (or Crisis) Services are time-limited, intensive supports provided for individuals and families who are currently experiencing, or may be expected to experience, a psychological, behavioral, or emotional crisis. Services may also be provided to the individual's or family's immediate support system. These services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Who We Serve
Any person in Vermont is eligible to receive support through the Emergency Services (ES) program.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
The Child, Youth, and Family programs provided at Vermont's Designated Agencies help individuals and their families to develop skills and supports important to living the life they want for themselves.
Who We Serve
Children and adolescents with or at risk for a serious emotional disturbance. These services are for any child, adolescent, or family seeking support. Most of these services are now part of the children's mental health bundled case rate payment system. This does not include Success Beyond 6 or Integrating Family Services Regions.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
Success Beyond Six (SB6) is a Medicaid program provided in Vermont schools by local mental health organizations, Designated Agencies (DAs). SB6 has three main programs [1) School-Based Clinical Services, 2) School-Based Behavioral Services, and 3) Concurrent Education Rehabilitation and Treatment (CERT)] with each program being grounded in trauma-informed practices and evidence-based approaches. These programs operate with a focus on working with students in the context of their family, community, and in collaboration with other system partners. Partnering with SB6 programs allows Vermont schools to bring expertise in mental health practice to students and school-based teams while also providing the additional structure of clinical supervision, administrative support for billing and reporting, ability to link with other DA services, and oversight and accountability to the State.
Who We Serve
SB6 Programs support the following populations of Vermont students:
- Medicaid-enrolled students with mental health concerns
- School-wide efforts for mental health and wellness within a multi-tiered system of support
- Students receiving Special Education services who have an emotional disability or other health impairment (e.g., ADHD)
- Students receiving Special Education services who have intensive needs related to an autism spectrum disorder
How We Impact
Overall, the SB6 Programs focus on the outcome measure of whether Vermonters are better off as a result of these programs. The goal of SB6 is to deliver comprehensive mental health supports effectively to Vermont students, so they can be available to learn to their highest potential.
The SB6 programs report information about sutdents served, including aggregated levels of need and strengths. This information helps provide insight into the statewide needs of schools and students, areas of need that are positively impacted by the program, and areas that may need additional system response to be more effectively addressed or resolved. Annual reports and data can be found on the DMH website: Success Beyond Six (SB6) Reports | Department of Mental Health.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
The Department of Mental Health is a major partner in the Agency of Human Services Integrating Family Services initiative. IFS brings together different programs and funding streams within AHS to create a single, flexible service delivery and payment system for services and supports to children, youth and their families so that practice and planning better match their needs.
DMH has two participating providers: Counseling Services of Addison County (CSAC) and Northeast Counseling and Support Services (NCSS). These providers work with the Parent Child Centers in their respective regions.
Who We Serve
This initiative provides supports and services to children,
youth and families (prenatal to age 22).
How We Impact
Bringing these programs and funding streams together the
following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a
result of this initiative. They do so by looking at the quality and
efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
What We Do
The State of Vermont funds a network of treatment facilities for children and adolescents with emotional behavior and other challenges through Private Nonmedical Institutions (PNMI) for Residential Child Care, part of the State's Medicaid program.
For more information, visit DVHA's page on PNMI services: https://dvha.vermont.gov/providers/division-rate-setting/private-nonmedical-institutions-residential-child-care-pnmi
Who We Serve
The facilities provide treatment for children and adolescents and families which is designed to build on their strengths and return children to their homes and communities whenever possible and appropriate.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
The Community Rehabilitation and Treatment (CRT) programs provided at Vermont's Designated Agencies help individuals and their families to develop skills and supports important to living the life they want for themselves.
Who We Serve
Vermont CRT programs assist adults that have been diagnosed with a serious mental illness. Symptoms may be mild or substantially disabling, and long-term or short term.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
The Adult Mental Health (AOP) program serves adults experiencing mental health challenges. The array of services available for people in the AOP program vary by DA and may include:
- clinical assessment
- service planning and coordination
- community supports
- individual, group, and/or family therapy
- medication evaluation and management, and consultation with primary care
- emergency care and crisis stabilization
- psychoeducation/recovery education
Who We Serve
Any adult (18+ years old) is eligible to receive AOP supports and services.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
River Valley Therapeutic Residence (RVTR) is a sixteen-bed secure residential facility designed to provide a community-based therapeutic setting for individuals with complex mental health issues who require ongoing intensive support for community integration that no longer meet the requirements for acute inpatient treatment or are found to be better served by the Department of Mental Health than in a Department of Corrections facility. RVTR staff believes in a holistic approach to mental health and wellness, as well as encourages its residents to collaborate with their treatment team in creating a strengths-based, recovery-focused plan to address individual challenges and goals.
Who We Serve
RVTR serves adults (18 years and older) with severe mental illness. Individuals can be referred to RVTR from either an inpatient psychiatric hospital or from a correctional facility and are required to be on an Order of Non-Hospitalization after having been found by the court to need a secure setting. If an individual is not already enrolled in a Community Rehabilitation and Treatment (CRT) program through their local Designated Agency (DA), they will be referred to their local program upon discharge.
How We Impact
RVTR provides a safe and supportive environment for individuals who no longer require a higher level of care (e.g., hospital-level care) but are not yet ready to return to their communities. RVTR provides therapeutic supports focused on recovery and skill-building, in order to develop or regain independent-living skills. RVTR emphasizes the importance of re-integrating into the community and supports individuals with re-establishing connections within these communities. By supporting the development of these connections, RVTR staff focuses on providing the tools necessary for a successful transition back to an individual's community and avoid re-hospitalization, or recidivism and return to a corrections facility. Without this step-down level of care, many individuals may experience an abrupt transition and have increased difficulty moving through the system of care, lacking the level of support needed for recovery. Without RVTR, many individuals would have to remain in a hospital or corrections setting for an extended and unnecessary amount of time.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
What We Do
The Vermont Psychiatric Care Hospital (VPCH) provides excellent care and treatment in a recovery-oriented, safe, respectful environment that promotes empowerment, hope and quality of life for the individuals it serves.
Who We Serve
VPCH serves adults who require a hospital level of care and who are held involuntarily by a civil or a forensic order. VPCH is considered a Level 1 inpatient facility, meaning it serves those who are highly acute and require additional services and supports.
How We Impact
Together the following performance measures focus on whether Vermonters are better off as a result of this program. They do so by looking at the quality and efficiency of these programs and services.
Budget Information
This represents a portion of appropriation #3150070000.
Budget Information
Appropriation ID - 15000 Global Commitment
What We Do
The Clinical Services Team (CST)
Please note that in the summer of 2020, the Clinical Integrity Unit, Clinical Operations Unit, and the Pharmacy unit, merged and became the Clinical Services Team.
The Clinical Integrity Unit (CIU) is responsible for the utilization management of mental health and detoxification services. The team works toward the integration and coordination of services provided to Vermont Medicaid members with substance use disorders and mental health needs. The team performs utilization management activities; including concurrent review and authorization of mental health, eating disorder treatment, and substance use detoxification services. The CIU also administers the Team Care program, which locks a member to a single prescriber and a single pharmacy. In addition, the Autism Specialist authorizes applied behavior analysis (ABA) services for children. The CIU also engages in Medical Record Reviews to support quality initiatives.
The Clinical Operations Unit (COU) monitors the quality, appropriateness, and effectiveness of healthcare services requested by providers for members:
- requests for services are reviewed and processed efficiently and within the timeframes outlined in Medicaid Rule;
- over-and-under utilization of healthcare services is identified through the prior authorization (PA) review process and case tracking;
- clinical criteria for certain established clinical services, new technologies and medical treatments are developed and/or adopted;
- medical benefits are correctly coded;
- provider appeals are reviewed;
- provider education is offered related to specific Medicaid policies and procedures;
- quality improvement activities are performed to enhance medical benefits for members.
Partners
- Department of Mental Health Adult and Children and Families Units,
- Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living,
- Department for Children and Families,
- Integrated Family Services,
- Designated Hospitals,
- Designated Agencies,
- Special Service Agencies,
- Vermont Chronic Care Initiative
How We Impact
The CIU serves Vermont Medicaid members who require mental health inpatient and detoxification services, eating disorder treatment, and ABA services.
One of the main roles of the COU is reviewing prior authorization requests for medical necessity. These requests are for services or goods (examples: durable medical equipment, elective inpatient admissions, out of network office visits) for members. The COU also serves the provider community, by providing education to support clinical review processes, so DVHA can better serve Vermont Medicaid members and the provider community.
Budget Information
Appropriation IDs - 15000 Global Commitment and 18000 Non-Waiver
What We Do
The ABA Scorecard presents data and information regarding the implementation and performance of the autism benefit coverage.
Who We Serve
Vermont Medicaid beneficiaries
Budget Information
Appropriation IDs - 15000 Global Commitment, 17000 State-Only, and 18000 Non-Waiver
What We Do
Vermont Medicaid offers dental programs for both children (through Dr. Dynasaur) and adults. Dental coverage for children under Dr. Dynasaur is a robust benefit that includes the dental services necessary to prevent disease and promote oral health, restore oral structures to health and function, and treat emergency conditions.
The Agency of Human Services (AHS) made the following changes to the Medicaid adult dental benefit effective January 1, 2020.
•Increased the annual maximum dollar limit on adult dental services from $510 to $1,000.
•Allowed up to two visits for preventive services per calendar year that do not count towards the $1000 annual maximum dollar limit and removing copayments from preventive dental services listed below, including D0120 Periodic Oral Exam.
These changes are a result of Act 72 enacted during the 2019 legislative session. The changes are intended to expand adult Medicaid beneficiaries’ access to dental care and encourage the utilization of preventive dental care. These changes apply to Medicaid beneficiaries age 21 and older, who are not pregnant or in the postpartum period.
Codes for preventive services outside of the annual maximum dollar amount include:
| Preventive Services |
|---|
| D1110 Prophylaxis – Adult “cleaning” |
| D1206 Topical Fluoride Varnish |
| D1208 Topical Application of Fluoride |
| D1354 Silver Diamine Flouride |
| D1320 Tobacco Counseling for the Control and Prevention of Oral Disease |
| Office Visit |
| D0120 Periodic Oral Exam |
Who We Serve
Vermont Medicaid beneficiaries
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