Oct 33 min read

Why it is important for states to modernize foster care IT systems in 2024

multiple hands together holding a paper outline of a house with a family inside

The foster care system is a vital safety net for vulnerable children designed to provide temporary homes and support, but like many public services, it faces significant challenges that impact its efficiency and ability to provide optimal care. Data shows that there were over 350,000 children in foster care as of 2022, and while the number has seemingly declined over the years, there are still a large number of children that rely on systems that have not kept up with the modern technology seen in today’s world.

In this blog, we will discuss a couple of the states in the U.S. that have had major challenges within their foster care IT systems in an effort to display the importance of keeping these technologies up to date. Modernizing these systems is not just about improving workflows, but more importantly it is about transforming lives.

Limited functionality in Minnesota’s SSIS

Many state-run services have been known to use legacy systems in the modern age, which may run much slower and have limits to what can be done when using them. One state that has experienced this in their foster care systems is Minnesota, where the current software, the Social Service Information System (SSIS), has proven to be a barrier to improving child protection services. Many reforms that required systemic changes within the software could not be done with such limited functionality of an older system.

With a modernized system, employees working in foster care would be able to have more time to focus on the children and families instead of spending it on handling documentation. These employees spend 50% to 60% of their time completing documentation in the SSIS program, and that does not account for possible system crashes and slowness. The system also does not have mobile capacities, which adds to the amount of time for tasks to be performed, and does not meet all of the accessibility requirements mandated by the ADA.

With modernized technology in foster care, administrative tasks can be enhanced and/or automated, and accessibility options can be implemented to make for a more improved experience for all users. Governor Tim Walz has proposed a $15 million budget to make these updates and more to the foster care IT systems to allow for improved and more efficient services and care.

Lack of accuracy and efficiency in Vermont’s SSMIS

Like Minnesota’s SSIS systems for foster care, Vermont’s SSMIS also has limits to what it can provide to its users. Created in the early 1980s, this system that inputs and stores basic information about minors in state custody does not even have the capability of using a mouse. This system that has such high stakes in the information it is keeping is in need of modernization, and many have brought it to the attention of the state government.

Some individuals like Erinn Rolland-Forkey, who has been a foster parent in Vermont for about 25 years, never assume that the information put out by SSMIS will be accurate or complete. Rolland-Forkey had reviewed documentation about a child that she was taking into her care, noticing that there was nothing listed for dietary restrictions. However, the child had brought up that they were actually allergic to shellfish, showing the risks of out of date IT systems in foster care services. It is even difficult to find information on where children are located when with a private service provider as well as other basic information. It takes time to search around for this data rather than having an accessible record that can be pulled up in seconds.

These are just a few of the examples that show why it is important to modernize foster care IT systems. Many state governments run these important services on outdated programs, and there is much risk involved as well as valuable time consumed. Modern technology offers a path forward to a more responsive, efficient, and child-centered approach. Now is the time for policymakers, agencies, and tech innovators to collaborate on building a foster care system that truly serves its purpose in the digital age.

Sedna will soon be attending the ISM + PHSA Education Conference & Expo October 6-9, 2024 at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, CO. We are excited to join other industry leaders in a discussion about human services policies in the realm of information technology and how we can improve lives across the country. Visit our LinkedIn to stay up to date on our latest insights.