Integrated Physical and Behavioral Health Services for Children in Foster Care

Currently, children and youth in the foster care system receive their physical and dental health coverage from the Department of Child Safety (DCS) health plan, the Comprehensive Medical and Dental Program (CMDP) and behavioral health benefits from one of three Arizona Regional Behavioral Health Authorities (RBHAs).

Starting April 1, 2021, children and youth in the Arizona foster care system will receive integrated behavioral health, physical and dental health coverage from Mercy Care Department of Child Safety Comprehensive Health Plan (Mercy Care DCS CHP). Mercy Care DCS CHP is a partnership between the Department of Child Safety (DCS) and Mercy Care, two organizations who are committed to the health and wellbeing of children and families involved in child welfare.

Mercy Care along with DCS will oversee the provision of physical and behavioral health services for children and youth in foster care. The goal of this partnership is to ensure continuity for all children involved in the child welfare system.

This partnership is a statewide contract that will serve all Arizona children in DCS' out of home care (both Medicaid and non-Medicaid children involved in Arizona's child welfare system) and will include collaboration with DCS offices and staff throughout the state.

Additional Information for Caregivers

  • Community information sessions were held on February 17, 2021 through February 19, 2021. You can view the Mercy Care DCS CHP presentation in English or Spanish, and learn more about what this means for you and the children and youth in your care.
  • DCS Reduces Barriers to Behavior Health Services for Kids - (Link)

Additional Information for Health Care Providers

 

Additional information regarding integrated health care services will be posted here.