Homeless Management Information System (HMIS)

The TJPDC launched the Community Services Network (CSN) in 2003 to function as a regional Homeless Management Information System(HMIS). The CSN is a web-based tool for data collection, case management, and program management and is now being used by homeless service providers in the Thomas Jefferson Planning District.

• Clients seeking and receiving services benefit from simplified eligibility screening, reducing duplicative intakes, streamlined referrals, and enhanced intra-agency coordination.
• Agencies benefits from up to date information and tools that ease reporting requirements.

The system is designed around case management: connecting clients to services, reviewing eligibility, exploring eligibility requirements, measuring outcomes. Program supervisors can monitor program attendance, review and assign caseloads, and run detailed reports. The system is fully HIPAA compliant, restricting access to the minimum necessary by agency and by function, and maintaining detailed access and edit logs.

Through their written permission, clients can select non-sensitive portions of their records to be made available to staff at other participating agencies, further reducing the burden of duplicative intakes and applications. Case managers can coordinate their services within an agency, and given written client permission Client Services can be coordinated between selected agencies

The Thomas Jefferson Planning District Commission (TJPDC) offers use of its Community Services Network to partners throughout the state. Contact HMIS Manager Jeffrey Cornelius at (434) 979-7310 x440 for more information on the Community Service Network.

• Summary of HUD HMIS final Data Standards
• HMIS Data and Technical Standards Final Notice (July 30, 2004)
  
• HMIS Data and Technical Standards Final Notice; Clarification and Additional Guidance on Special Provisions for Domestic Violence Provider Shelters (October 15, 2004)

HMIS Congressional Directive