Department of Children and Families Launches Baker Act Data Dashboard

Earlier today, the Department of Children and Families (DCF) launched its Baker Act data dashboard to increase access and transparency among Baker Act-receiving facilities.

Florida’s Baker Act law provides “individuals with emergency services and temporary detention for up to 72 hours for mental health examination,” according to Florida Statute Chapter 394.

The data accumulated by the dashboard will include regional and geographic trends of areas with high utilization and repeat admissions, along with where and why initiations occur and demographic breakdowns. According to a department press release, the dashboard will be updated weekly, replacing a lagging annual report process where data is usually years behind.

As for the overall dashboard creation process, providers began using the department’s Baker Act Data Collection System last year to expedite reporting and increase visibility on mental health crisis needs, giving the department time to analyze system challenges, identify trends and improve outcomes.

Based on the department’s analysis, the system was created to have an enhanced user-friendly interface, data download capability and state-of-the-art security measures to protect sensitive information while being mobile-friendly.

“These enhancements,” the press release states, “allow partners and stakeholders to easily access quality data efficiently to assist in making informed community-level decisions regarding crisis care.”

It would also increase transparency.

“Florida is on the forefront of innovation, and improving efficiency and transparency are key to supporting the department’s mission to improve outcomes and support strong and resilient families,” DCF Secretary Shevaun Harris said in a release. “With the most comprehensive, publicly available dashboard in the nation, this improved access to information will help gain insight into evaluations for emergency mental health stabilization, empowering the department and mental health providers to be more proactive and versatile in our approach to providing preventive mental health services.”

More information about the department’s Baker Act data dashboard can be found online.