NJ Comprehensive Assessment Tool (NJ CAT)Improvements

Why the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities Comprehensive Assessment Tool (NJ CAT) Needs Improvements: 

First, the NJ CAT (“New Jersey Comprehensive Assessment Tool”)is a mandatory needs assessment to determine what and how much funding will be allocated for services and supports related to developmental disability. After completing the NJ CAT, a tier level is assigned. Tiers include A, B, C, D, and E. Acuity factored tiers include Aa, Ba, Ca, Da, and Ea. Acuity means there are significant clinical needs for either medical or behavioral issues. The A tiers are the highest functioning individuals and receive the least funding. The E tiers are the lowest functioning individuals and receive the most funding. The tiers translate into a budget for the service recipient to purchase services and supports and a reimbursement rate for providers to get paid for helping the individual. 

The NJ CAT does not accurately portray the service recipient's needs. First, many of the questions are black or white, all or nothing, or yes or no. While this multiple-choice format allows for easy scoring, sometimes there is a “yes, but...” answer. There needs to be space for a brief explanation of the individual's needs if needed.

Also, the assessment does not address the individual’s strengths. We need to address the individual’s strengths, not just weaknesses and deficits. 

There needs to be more transparency for the individuals, families, and providers about the NJ CAT scoring method. This will help aid in the answering of questions if the respondents know the weight of each question when the final score is given. 

The NJ CAT needs to be changed to better service those with developmental disabilities, by taking an accurate look at individuals’ needs and strengths.