As we’re getting ready to launch the Ethics Standard Board’s database of ABA Organizations in the US, I want to start collecting information from those in the field to help us bring visibility to which organizations are engaging in best practices so that the field can support them as employees and clients of ABA services.
I’ve created a scorecard system that I think can be implemented by running a series of surveys. The information will be gathered anonymously (so there should be no fear of retribution).
We will also be surveying organizations to gather information about the (1) type of services provided, (2) population served (via medical diagnoses); (3) age, and (4) setting(s) in which services are provided and any other information that will be helpful for parents to make a decision about which agencies to contact. And for employees to determine which organizations to work for.
I’m looking for feedback from BTs/RBTs and BCBAs on whether you would be able to complete a survey that looks something like this. Certainly, sharing this data will make an invaluable contribution to the field but this only works if people are willing to participate.
Ethical ABA Organization Scorecard (BT/RBT Roles)
COMPANY MISSION: Ethical application of quality ABA intervention to help improve lives.
Business Goal #1: Provide high-quality service with defined measurable outcomes
Business Goal #2: Provide a reinforcing and supportive environment for staff
Business Goal #3: Optimize business operations to achieve the greatest efficiency and effectiveness to maximize profitability (while maintaining Goals #1 and #2)
QUALITY MEASURES:
(1) Reasonable hourly rate (60th to 70th percentile) – 1 to 5 pts
(2) Guaranteed hours (at full or reduced rates) – 1 to 5 pts
(3) Paid training and structured onboarding (including shadowing opportunities) – 1 to 5 pts
(4) Quality supervision (more than 5% minimum required by the BACB) – 1 to 5 pts
(5) Ongoing professional development opportunities (even for BTs and RBTs) – 1 to 5 pts
(6) Benefits – 1 to 5 pts
(7) PTO (vacations and holidays) – 1 to 5 pts
(8) Paid driving time – 1 to 5 pts
(9) Mileage reimbursement – 1 to 5 pts
(10) Differentiated compensation program (calibrated for educational background, experience, and level of expertise) – 1 to 5 pts
(11) Defined career path (for career RBTs) – 1 to 5 pts
(12) Structured RBT supervision program – 1 to 5 pts
(13) System to measure BT/RBT Effectiveness to review supervisor performance – 1 to 5 pts
(14) Investments in employee retention / burnout mitigation strategies – 1 to 5 pts
(15) Efficient and effective Client Management and scheduling practices – 1 to 5 pts
(16) Job rotation program – 1 to 5 pts
(17) Customer satisfaction surveys – 1 to 5 pts
(18) Employee satisfaction surveys – 1 to 5 pts
(19) Collaborative and supportive corporate culture – 1 to 5 pts
(20) Client waitlist support – 1 to 5 pts