Plans of Safe Care

What is a Plan of Safe Care (POSC)?

The goal of the Plan of Safe Care is to strengthen the family unit, help mothers have a healthy pregnancy, and keep child(ren) safely at home. It is also:

  • A personalized guide to ensure necessary resources are provided to help families thrive
  • A tool that helps communicate strengths, needs and accomplishments to providers
  • A tool to help with care coordination.

Who could benefit from a POSC?

The Plan of Safe Care was designed for pregnant women with substance use disorders and families of infants who may have been substance exposed during pregnancy.

  • Pregnant women with an active substance use disorder should receive a POSC during pregnancy.
  • Any families with infants born exposed to substances with the potential of misuse should receive a POSC. Families with infants who experience withdrawal, even to prescribed medications (e.g., methadone, benzodiazepines) should receive a POSC.
  • The POSC should be developed for infants and their families whether or not they require a report to Social Services.

*Note:  Federal law requires that infants born affected by substance misuse, withdrawal or Fetal Alcohol Spectrum (FASD) receive a Plan of Safe Care that supports their families as well.

Where can I find a POSC template?

For more information:

  • Building a Plan of Safe Care in the Medical Setting 
    • What is a Plan of Safe Care (POSC)?
    • Who could benefit from a Plan of Safe Care?
    • Who develops and adds to the POSC?
    • Where can I find a POSC template?
    • Which families require a POSC?
    • When is a report to Social Services required?
    • How do I determine if safety risks exist?
  • 5 Ways to Improve Care Using Plans of Safe Care
    • Implement Universal Screening
    • Take a Family-Centered Approach
    • Disrupt Stigma
    • Plan for Transitions/Discharge Planning
    • Advance Equity and Inclusion

Referrals for POSC Support

Health care providers can refer families to HCA Community & Nursing Services (Pregnant and Parenting Support Programs; 714-834-7747) to assist with the POSC by providing coordination, follow-up and linkages.