(a) Structure.  The Field Operations Division (FOD) is comprised of:

• (1) FOD State Office staff;
• (2) six area offices; and
• (3) all human services centers (HSCs).

(b) Function.  The primary function of FOD is to ensure local service delivery for the programs for which it is administratively responsible.

• (1) Service delivery.  For purposes of service administration, the Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) has divided the state into geographic areas.  There is an area director assigned to each area.  There is at least one HSC in each county.  Metropolitan areas may have more than one HSC.  A county director is responsible for each HSC and has line authority for FOD staff in that HSC.  The county director reports to the area director who reports to the FOD director.  Each area office has field liaisons who provide technical support to the area director and county directors.  FOD staff in local HSCs administers:
  • (A) Family Support Services;
  • (B) Children and Family Services;
  • (C) Adult Protective Services;
  • (D) Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) Coordination and Information Services;
  • (E) Voter Registration; and
  • (F) School-based Services.
• (2) Administration responsibilities. 
  • (A) State Office.  FOD State Office staff is responsible for ensuring all components of local HSCs function smoothly as they facilitate the delivery of OKDHS programs and services.
  • (B) FOD director.  The FOD director:
    • (i) directs the implementation of OKDHS programs through the area directors;
    • (ii) acquires, administers, and allocates resources to support HSC activities; and
    • (iii) provides the OKDHS Director with analyses of budget, personnel, and other resources needed to support operations of OKDHS HSCs.
  • (C) Area directors.  Area directors:
    • (i) provide supervision, support, and leadership to county directors and area staff;
    • (ii) advocate for the field;
    • (iii) ensure resources are distributed equitably among local HSCs; and
    • (iv) are responsible for program direction to ensure programs are operated in accordance with rules and client outcomes are achieved.
  • (D) County directors.  County directors are:
    • (i) responsible and have authority for the function and operation of the county HSC.  Responsibilities include:
      • (I) advocating for staff and clients;
      • (II) coordinating all personnel activities;
      • (III) supervising, directing, and training of all programs;
      • (IV) developing and maintaining positive and productive relationships with all levels of OKDHS personnel and the community; and
      • (V) developing and maintaining resources and procedures to ensure a smooth flow of activities in a safe environment; and
    • (ii) administratively accountable for other program staff including coordination of management activities and problem resolution.