Independent Third-Party Reviewer for DSS

The role of Independent Third-Party Reviewer is established at 18 NYCRR 430.12(c)(2), the Diligence of Effort regulation pertaining to Service Plan Reviews for children in the care and custody of the Commissioner of Social Services. All children in out-of-home placements are required to have their service plans reviewed by an impartial reviewer not responsible for the case management or delivery of service to the case. The subject of the review is conformance to the regulatory standards of casework practice and the documentation of services provided. Each review takes place at a regularly scheduled formal case meeting, attended by the child, their parents, service providers and anyone else whom the child requests be present. All reviews are to be held at the offices of the Department of Social Services and are to be scheduled by department staff. The invitation of participants is the responsibility of the Department as well. The Department shall also provide back- up coverage for the Reviewer. The Department of Social Services expects that the Independent Third-Party Reviewer will act in the following capacities: observer, evaluator, and