Expected Outcomes
- Reduce the length of stay in out-of-home placement for children in the EPIC program compared to substance-affected families not receiving EPIC support
- Increased rates of reunification among families involved in EPIC
- Reduce recidivism for child welfare investigations and re-entries into foster care among parents receiving EPIC intervention
- Identify which intervention components implemented via EPIC were more likely to increase positive outcomes for families
Study Design
We use a quasi-experimental design to examine the impact of EPIC services. Families receiving EPIC intervention will be matched with two comparison families from the same counties as in Goal 1.
- One county receiving intervention through the Ohio START program
- A second county with no major grants to aid substance-abused families in the child welfare system
Identify Performance Indicators
- Length of stay in out-of-home placement
- Reunification rates
- Recidivism; re-referral for child welfare investigations
- Needs Portal will record data on the type and quantity of each intervention activity implemented