G. Monitoring Psychotropic Medications

In February 2005, DFPS, the Department of State Health Services (DSHS), and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) released a "best practices" guide to ensure the proper use of psychotropic medications for the children in foster care.

The updated September 2013 Psychotropic Medication Utilization Parameters for Children and Youth in Foster Care. It serves as a resource for physicians and clinicians who care for children diagnosed with mental health disorders. The guide provides recommendations for the appropriate use of psychotropic medications for children in foster care and includes nine criteria indicating need for review of the child's clinical status.

Since April 2008, STAR Health has conducted Psychotropic Medication Utilization Reviews (PMURs) on the children whose medication regimens fall outside of the expectations of the Parameters.

The STAR Health PMUR Process for STAR Health Members FAQ and Stakeholder Manual explains this process and how to request a review. http://www.fostercaretx.com/files/2015/07/TX_FosterCare_FAQ_CleanVersion_Provider_762015.pdf