The Findings (ERIC score)

 

After interviews have been completed for an individual’s Quality Circle, A VOICE Workbook is written to record the findings of the review.  The Quality Assurance Team members summarize the value of the support experienced by the person in each life area.  They include what the person values most and the principal areas in which support is needed. All Quality Circle members’ viewpoints are taken into consideration in this objective assessment. 

For each of the eight life areas, the team summarizes its observations by recording two types of findings:

1. A general finding that describes how the individual feels in all aspects of their life.  These are broken out into the three primary environments:  Home life/family, work, school & daily, and Social & Community. These findings are found in the grid after the What We’ve Learned page of the workbook.  Again, this is the individual’s viewpoint of how they see their life in that setting.  This may or may not coincide with the provider’s viewpoint.

*Action plans do not have to be completed for a general finding since this is the person’s viewpoint and findings of support will be documented in the provider findings. 

2. A provider finding which is the contribution made by each support provider within the life area.  These findings are recorded on the Provider Contribution pages in the workbook.  Provider Contribution pages are completed for each licensed provider, case manager and any other agency that is paid support such as schools, paid conservators, accredited programs, or Adult Day Centers.

 

The ERIC score Findings and their implications are as follows: 

Exceptional

• An E finding indicates the person is receiving support that exceeds the typical expectations of the person and the system.  Supports are uniquely defined, and/or are exceptionally focused on the individual receiving support.  They are remarkably effective, innovative, and person centered. 

 

Reasonable

• An R finding indicates the supports being provided are reasonable, based on what that person values and needs.  The R finding reflects consistent satisfaction -- by the person -- with the supports provided.
• While Action Plans are not required for an “R” finding, there may be opportunities for further enhancements of the support being provided.  In such situations a QAT may ask “questions to consider” or “considerations” that suggest opportunities for improvement that the Quality Circle may wish to explore.

 

Improvement is needed

• An I finding indicates that improvement is needed for supports being provided.  This does not imply failure of a support provider but should be looked at as an opportunity to improve this person’s life.  It is based upon evidence of circumstances that need to be addressed or specific needs that are not being met.
• An “I” finding requires an Action Plan to be written within 60 days of the Quality Circle feedback meeting. 

 

Concern

• A C finding indicates a concern expressed by the person or noted by the QAT about circumstances that severely detract from the person's quality of life.  Such concerns must be addressed quickly.  In addition to any immediate response, a C finding requires that an Action Plan be written within 30 days of the Quality Circle feedback meeting. 
• Identification of possible maltreatment will result in a “C” finding. However, a finding of “C” is not reserved for possible maltreatment under Minnesota Statutes 626.556 or 626.557, identification of which requires the QAT to take appropriate action immediately. 
• The “C” finding will be used rarely, and only after careful consideration of the facts and information on which it is based.  The QAT must describe, in writing, areas of concern for each support provider, such that there can be no confusion about the meaning of the concern or its implications.  Much effort must be exerted to be confident the concern is appropriately documented.

Points to know when receiving a finding requiring an Action Plan

• The QAT does not prescribe how the issue or concerns are to be addressed.  The Quality Circle or the responsible provider must address the findings of the QAT and describe, in writing to the Quality Assurance Manager, the actions taken or planned that will improve the support provided. 
• All Quality Circle members helping to support the individual are encouraged to cooperate in developing an Action Plan. 
• If the  “I” finding applies to all support providers, it is the responsibility of the person's case manager to coordinate the completion of the Action Plan.