0555b664__Alcohol_and_Other_Drug_Issues__Program_Improvement_Plan__PIP_
[State] Alaska Among all reasons identified for children coming to the attention of the child welfare agency, neglect (not including medical neglect) was cited in 40 (80%) cases, substance abuse by parents was cited in 21 (42%) cases. Primary reasons for opening a child welfare agency case included substance abuse by parent in 4 cases (8%). Substance abuse assessment and treatment and several other services were rated as a strength. Stakeholders noted that in some cases children are being reunified without the parent�s substance abuse problems being adequately treated, and the agency is not following up in these cases. Stakeholders commented that there are long wait lists for both in- and out-patient substance abuse treatment services. The statewide assessment indicated that the greatest need for services are in-home services, substance abuse treatment services, and domestic violence services, and that there are service gaps in substance abuse assessment and treatment services. There are service gaps in treatment services for children and adults who have been diagnosed with Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) or Fetal Alcohol Effects (FAE). Stakeholders commented that despite the gap in services, there are quality programs including an in-patient substance abuse program for mothers and children.�
The need for services was one of six themes that consistently arose during the PIP process. The most critical service identified was substance abuse services. Collaboration between the substance abuse treatment agency and the child protection system must be improved. The state recognizes that substance abuse substantially contributes to child abuse and neglect cases and that there is no quick fix for this long-term problem. OCS intends to tailor training regarding safety issues and substance abuse to more adequately address risk in the long run. This will also be a training topic for the judiciary and defense bar as efforts are restructured surrounding work with substance abusing families.
A Review of Alcohol and Other Drug Issues
Program Improvement Plan (PIP)