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May 2009
 Settlement Agreement in United States Department
of Justice v. State of Texas
On May 20, 2009, Texas reached an
agreement with the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) on a comprehensive
action plan to improve care and coordination of services for persons who
reside at state schools. The settlement agreement is related to a DOJ
investigation and civil rights lawsuit over the quality of care provided
to individuals with developmental disabilities residing in the 13
facilities operated by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability
Services (DADS).
The settlement states that DADS will do the
following:
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Hire 1,160 additional staff for the 13 facilities,
including 27 psychiatrists, 11 clinical pharmacists, and eight dentists,
to improve the quality of medical care for residents by providing better
screening and care coordination for individuals with high-risk health
conditions.
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Complete abuse investigations more quickly. The state
expects to add 42 staff at the Texas Department of Family and Protective
Services to comply.
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Select at least three independent
monitors to review the schools to determine if they are complying with
the standards of care outlined in the settlement agreement. A report will
be issued every six months on the performance of each school.
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Improve assessments and monitoring of behavioral plans. This will be
accomplished by on-site psychological staff.
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OPEN MINDS