Frequently Asked Questions
How do I begin the process of becoming a Network Provider?
Simply contact us by phone number listed below and we will guide you through the simple steps to become a member of our Provider Network, including the completion of a brief application package. This is an opportunity to empower children and families through acts of service. Please get in touch with our office today!
How do I file a grievance if I am dissatisfied with services?
If you are dissatisfied with the services received, we ask that you attempt to resolve those differences with the appropriate program staff and/or the Supervisor and Program Manager.
If resolution of your concerns cannot be reached, you have the right to submit a formal grievance.
To file a formal grievance, you may submit your complaint to NWF Health Network’s Client Relations Coordinator, Connie Lyda, via the email or telephone number below. The Client Relations Coordinator will respond to your complaint as quickly as possible.
- Please contact Connie Lyda at [email protected] or 850-410-1020.
There shall be no retaliation against any individual or person served, or employee for having filed or assisted in the filing of a complaint/grievance, or for investigation or acting on a complaint/grievance. Any employee who becomes aware of any such retaliatory action shall immediately report it to the COO and CEO.
How do I request my records?
Records from network service providers for substance abuse and/or mental health services should be requested directly from the service provider. Records maintained by NWFHN for Child Protection require a request in writing. Please submit this request to our Records Manager Elaine Bowden.
- Contact Elaine Bowden at [email protected].
What are my rights and responsibilities as an NWF Health Network client?
All consumers have the right to:
• Be treated with dignity and respect regardless of age, sex, religion, race, cultural
background, sexual preferences or disability.
• Be heard, which includes the opportunity to submit a formal grievance.
• Have documentation provided to them in an easy to read and understandable manner, or have an interpreter provided, as needed.
• Have services provided to them in their community by qualified staff in a professional manner.
• Privacy and confidentiality in accordance with applicable laws.
• Give input regarding service authorization and placement decisions.
What is Batterer’s Intervention Program (BIP)?
BIP is often required following a domestic violence incident. Currently, BIP is a 29-week, psychoeducational, group program that addresses elements of power and control within relationships.
What is Early Childhood Court (ECC)?
Early Childhood Court, often referred to as ECC or Baby Court, aims to improve child well-being outcomes for child protection involved children. ECC utilizes a trauma-informed approach by partnering with case managers, the Courts, behavioral health providers and families. Early Childhood Court addresses child protection cases involving children under the age of three. It is a problem-solving court – where legal, societal, and individual problems intersect. Problem-solving courts seek to address not only the legal issues but also the underlying non-legal issues that will benefit the parties and society as well. The goal of Florida’s Early Childhood Court is to improve child safety and well-being, change the experience and outcomes of children in the child protection system, heal trauma and repair the parent/child relationship, expedite permanency, and stop the intergenerational cycle of abuse/neglect/violence.
For more information, visit the link below:
What is the Managing Entity Community Needs Assessment?
The Florida Managing Entity Community Needs Assessment is a formal process conducted by each regional Managing Entity (ME) in Florida to evaluate the behavioral health needs, such as mental health and substance abuse, of the communities they serve. Managing Entities are organizations contracted by the Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) to oversee and coordinate behavioral health services across different regions of the state. Every three years, by law, NWFHN must conduct a community behavioral health care needs assessment in our geographic area. The results of the needs assessment help guide the allocation of resources, planning of services, and development of strategies to address gaps in care for mental health and substance use disorders. This assessment is crucial for making sure that behavioral health services in Florida are responsive to the actual needs of our local populations, rather than using a one-size-fits-all approach.
2014 Community Needs Assessment
2016 Community Needs Assessment
When are Adoption payments processed?
Funds are sent to the bank on record on the 16th of the month or first business day thereafter. Parents should expect to receive these funds when the bank posts the funds to the parent’s account. This is typically within or around 48 hours.
How can I report abuse?
The Florida Abuse Hotline accepts reports 24 hours a day and 7 days a week of known or suspected child abuse, neglect, or abandonment and reports of known or suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of a vulnerable adult.
To make a report you can:
- Report online at through the Department of Children and Families’ website
- Call 1-800-962-2873
- Florida Relay 711 or TTY 800-453-5145
- Fax your report to 800-914-0004
If you suspect or know of a child or vulnerable adult in immediate danger, call 911.
How do I become a foster parent?
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- For more information about becoming a foster parent in Escambia/Santa Rosa counties contact Taryn Tasker at 850-739-9634 or [email protected]
- For more information about becoming a foster parent in Okaloosa/Walton counties contact Taryn Tasker at 850-739-9634 or [email protected]
- For more information about becoming a foster parent in Leon/Wakulla/Gadsden/Jefferson/Liberty/Franklin counties contact Keena Armstrong at 850-596-3135 or [email protected]
- For more information about becoming a foster parent in Bay/Gulf/Calhoun/Washington/Jackson/Holmes counties contact Taryn Tasker at 850-739-9634 or [email protected]
For more information click here.