At the beginning of 2023, the Behavioral Health Commission (BHC) directed staff to monitor the implementation and performance of the System Transformation Excellence and Performance (STEP-VA) initiative. Launched in 2017, STEP-VA was intended to expand access to and ensure the quality of publicly funded, essential behavioral health services provided by the state’s community services boards (CSBs).

To evaluate the implementation and performance of STEP-VA, BHC staff examined the extent to which the STEP-VA initiative has accomplished its goals and contributed to the strategic goals adopted by the Commission. Staff used a variety of research methods including interviews with program experts; data analysis; and reviews of the Code of Virginia, agency reports, and administrative manuals. Analysis was conducted using data as of the end of fiscal year 2022, the most recent period for which comprehensive data and information were available about the STEP-VA initiative.