Journal of Gerontological Social Work · 2012 · 27 citations · 19 references
Social SciencesSocial WorkClinical Social WorkHealth AssessmentWorkforce PlanningAbuse PreventionElder AbuseHealth Workforce EvaluationNeglect PreventionPsychosocial AssessmentAdministrative Data SourcesAssessment ProcessesComparative Cost-effectivenessCoordination Of Multidisciplinary TeamsCost Savings AnalysisCost Savings EvaluationCost-effectivenessProtective Services Administration
This study compared 2 approaches to the assessment of Adult Protective Services (APS) cases. Using administrative data from 869 cases in 2 counties in Maryland, the differences between a nurse/social worker team and a lone social worker in case disposition, risk reduction, recidivism, and cost effectiveness were examined. Lone social workers were significantly more likely to confirm financial exploitation, physical abuse, and neglect by others; while the team approach resulted in significantly greater risk reduction. No differences were observed in relation to recidivism, self-neglect and cost savings. Given limited resources, research that examines optimal staffing patterns in APS agencies is warranted.
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