About the Program
The qualified evaluator network (QEN) process was created by a 2000 Florida legislative initiative that amended Florida Statute 39.407 with the intent to:
- Prevent premature or inappropriate referrals to residential psychiatric placements
- Ensure the least restrictive level of care for the child
- Support the child’s due process rights under state law
Whenever the Department of Children and Families (DCF) believes that a child in its legal custody is emotionally disturbed and may need residential treatment, an examination and suitability assessment must be conducted by a qualified evaluator (QE). This suitability assessment must be completed before the placement of the child in a residential treatment program. If this level of care is deemed necessary, a subsequent review of progress toward treatment goals is conducted while the child remains in a residential setting.
In 2024, the QEs also began conducting Behavioral Qualified Residential Treatment Program (BQRTP) assessments for DCF. Children who enter out-of-home care presenting with significant behavioral disorders that did not meet the level of care for a Statewide Inpatient Psychiatric Program (SIPP) or therapeutic group home (TGH) placement are considered for placement in a BQRTP.
DCF contracts with Magellan of Florida (Magellan) to manage the QEN program. Magellan is responsible for recruiting and managing a network of qualified evaluators who conduct the suitability assessments.
Qualifications for the network
To evaluate for placement
In a residential treatment center, other than a therapeutic group home, or a hospital, the QE must be:
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A Florida licensed psychiatrist or psychologist with at least three years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of serious emotional disturbances in children and adolescents, and have no actual or perceived conflict of interest with any inpatient facility or residential treatment center or program
In a therapeutic group home, the QE must be a:
- A Florida licensed psychiatrist, psychologist or mental health counselor, licensed under chapter 491, who has at least two years of experience in the diagnosis and treatment of serious emotional or behavioral disturbance in children and adolescents, and have no actual or perceived conflict of interest with any residential treatment center or program
About Magellan Healthcare
Magellan of Florida is a subsidiary of Magellan Healthcare, which has been providing behavioral healthcare services for over 50 years, more than 30 years partnering with state and local agencies. Our person-centered approach, deep expertise and compassion have helped thousands of adults and children improve their mental and physical well-being.
Magellan Healthcare also provides behavioral and specialty care solutions to federal and commercial clients. Our sharp clinical focus on complex needs and conditions helps organizations drive down costs, reduce variation in care and improve the lives of individuals.
