THE DEPARTMENT-OF-HEALTH-AND-HUMAN-SERVICES FOSTER-CARE REVIEW SYSTEMNEEDS A MAJOR OVERHAUL

Thorough and regular case reviews help to protect children in foster c are and are linked with speedier family reunification or permanent pla cement of such children. Yet there is evidence that some States are no t providing such reviews on schedule and that the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) is not rigorously or regularly monitoring ho w States' review systems function. This paper discusses areas where Fe deral oversight of State compliance with case review guidelines needs improvement and suggests avenues, such as issuing more clear and preci se regulations, by which HHS could best ensure that children in foster care receive the prompt case review to which they are entitled.