The Importance of Wraparound Fidelity Monitoring
Fidelity measurement is a core implementation support to evidence-based practices. “Fidelity” refers to the degree to which a program or initiative adheres to a defined practice model.
By collecting and analyzing high quality fidelity data and using that data to inform continuous quality improvement efforts for Wraparound service models, programs and initiatives are better able to understand and meet the needs of youth and families in their care, as well as respond to emerging needs in their communities.
In response to the need for a way to measure fidelity to the Wraparound model of care, the WERT team developed and maintains the Wraparound Fidelity Assessment System (WFAS). WFAS provides multiple ways of assessing fidelity and quality for the Wraparound process, as specified by the National Wraparound Initiative.
As a fidelity measurement system, WFAS instruments are designed to support both continuous quality improvement and research. With respect to CQI, sites or programs delivering services via the Wraparound process can generate profiles to illuminate areas of relative strength and weakness. This information can be used to guide program planning, training, and quality assurance.
With respect to research, researchers on youth and family services can use WFAS instruments to measure the relationship between service processes and outcomes, and ask which aspects of service delivery are most important to child and family well-being. As shown in the figure, this question was asked of studies in our meta-analysis of Wraparound outcomes. Results found that effects were significantly better across outcomes for programs that achieved adequate levels of fidelity, as assessed by WFAS measures.
