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Chapter 9 Program Integrity
9.0 PROGRAM INTEGRITY In order to operate and maintain a strong CCDF program, regular evaluations of the program’s internal controls as well as comprehensive training for all entities involved in the administration of the program are imperative. The Child Care Scholarship Program implements internal controls that promote and support program integrity. No one person’s role allows them to work from the beginning of the child care eligibility to payment of child care services. The desk review process and Improper Payment Review process are completed by staff that are not responsible for eligibility determination or payment information nor are they under the supervision of the Program Manager that is responsible for the oversight of the eligibility, enrollment and payment process staff. As risks are identified, resolutions are sought, including revision of policies, procedures and /or practices to minimize the risks. 9.1 DESK REVIEW PROCESS A desk review process is in place to review a percentage of all child care eligibility workers’ cases approved every two weeks. This process is used to ensure that eligibility has been determined correctly. Available agency data systems, such as TANF/SNAP and CAPSS are accessed, as appropriate, to ensure child care is in the correct child care category. The reviewer determines that all paperwork and documentation are in the case record. A review of the Child Care Scholarship Program database is also conducted to ensure that information from the application has been properly entered. Any errors or improper payments are communicated to the supervisor of the area responsible for the area and the error will be addressed and corrected by eligibility staff within 5 days of notification of the error/improper payment. These desk reviews are considered to be a preventative measure that will assist SCDSS in conducting the improper payments reporting process. The reviews are also used to identify training needs for staff and to strengthen policy and procedures.