SECTION 340:5-1-1. Adult Protective Services (APS) authority, core principles, and mission

(a)   APS was created to meet the requirements of the Protective Services for Vulnerable Adults Act, Sections 10-101 et seq. of Title 43A of the Oklahoma Statutes.

(b)   APSassists vulnerable adults who are unable to meet their own needs, or who are reported to be suffering from physical or verbal abuse, neglect, self-neglect, or exploitation.

(c)   The vulnerable adult is the APS client. APS respects the client's right to self-determination and approaches service planning and intervention with sensitivity to the client's perception of his or her situation and needs. An objective assessment of the circumstances and need for involvement is made.

(d)   APS intervention and service planning are client-centered. The vulnerable adult alleged to need protective services, is an Oklahoma Department of Human Services (DHS) client. While outcomes desired by the reporter, family members, or other caretakers are considered, APS intervention and service planning are client-centered.

(e)   The APS specialist maintains professional objectivity when providing for or arranging services for vulnerable adults, whether services are paid for by the client or from private or public funds.

(f)   APS supervisors or designees review referrals to determine the appropriate level response.

(g)   Protective service plans are developed with the knowledge and approval of the client, when possible. When involuntary services are necessary to protect the life or estate of a client, guardianship is pursued with careful consideration of the effect on the client's psychological and emotional needs. Service planning focuses on services that meet the vulnerable adult's needs in the least intrusive and least restrictive manner possible.

(h)   APS program goals are, to:

(1)   reestablish and maintain a stable level of functioning approaching the client's maximum potential;

(2)   reestablish and maintain the client's family and community relationships;

(3)   assist the client to remain in the community as long as possible;

(4)   ensure that the client who lacks capacity to consent, receives involuntary court-ordered services; and

(5)   assist the client in obtaining appropriate institutional care,when less restrictive services are not available.

(i)   APS is responsible for program planning, staff training, technical assistance, quality assurance, and policy development. APS district directors assist in this process by providing local support for APS staff.

[Source: Added at 20 Ok Reg 840, eff 6-1-03; Amended at 27 Ok Reg 990, eff 6-1-10; Amended at 35 Ok Reg 1592, eff 9-17-18]