Enhancing Protection: The Role of AD’s APS Center of Excellence (COE)

In a bid to bolster its efforts in safeguarding vulnerable adults, the Los Angeles County Adult Protective Services (APS) Center of Excellence (COE) was inaugurated on August 22, 2023 and has been working diligently ever since. This innovative initiative heralds a significant milestone in the county’s commitment to addressing the intricate challenges of protecting its most vulnerable residents. 

Central to the COE’s framework is the integration of a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT), comprising experts from a spectrum of community agencies. These include representatives from the District Attorney, Department of Mental Health, Public Guardian, Law Enforcement, Long Term Care Ombudsman, Bet Tzedek, and various other stakeholders. This collaborative approach ensures a comprehensive and well-rounded perspective in handling complex cases of abuse and neglect. 

Since its inception, the COE has facilitated regular case presentations, commencing on July 27, 2023, with 3-4 cases showcased each week. As of January 2024, a total of 60 cases have been deliberated upon, shedding light on prevalent forms of abuse within the community. Notably, the top abuse allegations addressed thus far include Financial Abuse, Neglect, and Self-neglect, underscoring the multifaceted nature of challenges encountered by APS Social Workers. 

The establishment of the APS Center of Excellence brings forth a myriad of benefits to the county’s protective services landscape: 

Real-time Guidance: By tapping into the expertise of a diverse cadre of professionals, APS Social Workers receive real-time guidance and insights, enhancing their ability to navigate complex cases effectively. 

Cross-sectional Collaboration: The COE fosters collaboration across different agencies and disciplines, harnessing collective wisdom to develop robust intervention strategies tailored to individual cases. 

Best Practices: Through ongoing deliberations and shared experiences, the COE serves as a platform for the establishment of best practices, laying the groundwork for enhanced efficacy in handling future cases. 

Holistic Assessment: By adopting a holistic approach, the COE ensures that complex cases are comprehensively evaluated, enabling the provision of tailored support and interventions to safeguard the well-being of vulnerable adults. 

In essence, the advent of the APS Center of Excellence represents a pivotal step forward in fortifying the county’s protective services infrastructure. By fostering collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and innovation, the COE epitomizes the county’s unwavering commitment to upholding the rights and dignity of its most vulnerable residents. As the COE continues to evolve and expand its reach, it holds the promise of effecting lasting positive change in the realm of adult protection, serving as a beacon of hope for vulnerable individuals and communities alike.