CANS and ANSA Outcome Reports Reference Guide, version 3

Abstract

Although behavioral health disorders are common, the quality of care has not kept pace with the quality of physical health care. Measuring behavioral health care quality has slowly evolved. Suggested quality of care initiatives include a routine process (fidelity) and outcome feedback, which has been linked to improved symptoms, quality of life, and lower readmission rates. Regularly discussing and measuring personal change is recommended. To support data-informed decisions based on personal change and to improve service quality, outcome management reports based on the Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths (CANS) and Adult Needs and Strengths Assessment (ANSA) data were developed in DARMHA, the Indiana Division of Mental Health and Addiction's data collection and reporting platform. This reference guide describes each individual or aggregate report and provides tips to access and utilize the information.