What Happens Next?
What happens after I make a report?
Consultation
When a mandated reporter or community member is concerned that abuse may be occurring, APS can provide consultation, information, and referral to other agencies. APS can also educate the public about reporting requirements and responsibilities under current laws.
What should I know about confidentiality?
The identity of anyone who reports abuse is confidential and may be disclosed only among APS agencies and partners.
Partners include:
- Local law enforcement agencies
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs
- The California State Attorney General Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse
- Licensing agencies or their counsel
- The Department of Consumer Affairs Investigators
- The District Attorney
- The Probate Court
- The Public Guardian
APS appreciates and depends on the community to provide information that protects older and dependent adults. We may not be able to provide information regarding abuse reports you make or the clients we serve. APS is bound by laws and principles that protect the rights of clients and their personal information.
Investigation
An APS investigation occurs after a report has been made about suspected abuse or neglect and a social worker is assigned. The investigation focuses on assessing the client's well-being; living environment; support system; and their strengths. The allegations are examined and level of risk is assessed. A plan is developed with the client's participation, which may include arranging for emergency services, shelter, or medical care.
APS may request assistance from law enforcement for welfare checks or criminal investigations. The following may occur as a result:
- The abuse allegations are unfounded, meaning the client is not at risk of abuse and does not need services;
- The elder or dependent adult may need to be hospitalized or evaluated by a doctor or public health nurse;
- APS and law enforcement agencies work together to facilitate safety and reduce risk;
- The Financial Abuse Specialist team (FAST) may coordinate efforts to protect the client by investigating the abuse, referring for conservatorship, or reviewing the case for possible civil or criminal actions.
What should I know about confidentiality?
The identity of anyone who reports abuse is confidential and may be disclosed only among APS agencies and partners.
Partners include:
- Local law enforcement agencies
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs
- The California State Attorney General Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse
- Licensing agencies or their counsel
- The Department of Consumer Affairs Investigators
- The District Attorney
- The Probate Court
- The Public Guardian
APS appreciates and depends on the community to provide information that protects older and dependent adults. We may not be able to provide information regarding abuse reports you make or the clients we serve. APS is bound by laws and principles that protect the rights of clients and their personal information.
Collaboration
APS social workers may provide referrals or linkage to community services, benefits, advocacy, or health care. They may arrange for services such as Meals on Wheels or transportation. Social workers also coordinate with family, friends, and other professionals to meet client needs. APS may request assistance from law enforcement for welfare checks or criminal investigations.
What should I know about confidentiality?
The identity of anyone who reports abuse is confidential and may be disclosed only among APS agencies and partners.
Partners include:
- Local law enforcement agencies
- Long-Term Care Ombudsman Programs
- The California State Attorney General Bureau of Medi-Cal Fraud and Elder Abuse
- Licensing agencies or their counsel
- The Department of Consumer Affairs Investigators
- The District Attorney
- The Probate Court
- The Public Guardian
APS appreciates and depends on the community to provide information that protects older and dependent adults. We may not be able to provide information regarding abuse reports you make or the clients we serve. APS is bound by laws and principles that protect the rights of clients and their personal information.
