The following service principles are fundamental to carrying out the department's responsibilities:(1) Stable service systems that provide flexibility, advocacy, effective communication, targeted outcomes, continuous evaluation, and improvement based on best practice and research;(2) Early identification of needs and the inclusion of both prevention and early intervention services and supports;(3) Timely response to the needs, rights and desires of those served;(4) Treating service recipients and families with dignity and respect;(5) Protection of service recipients from abuse, neglect, and exploitation;(6) Accurate and responsible accountability for the use of public resources;(7) Ongoing education and skills development of the workforce; and(8) Cultural competence of persons providing service.Acts 2000, ch. 947, § 1.
Tennessee Legal Code