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.