Outcomes are specific descriptions of what you will be able to do, have or know how to do when your person-centered planning process has happened. They are usually stated as knowledge, a skill, an item, an accomplishment or an attitude.

Outcome statements describe what is desired.

Joe will be happier (outcome = happy).

Mike will get his own apartment (outcome = gets an apartment).

Sherry will apply to college (outcome = college application is in).

Rick will get a job at the mall (outcome = job in whatever Rick wants to do).

An outcome statement is a way to measure if your person-centered planning process (through your Individual Plan of Service (IPOS), is working or not. If a period of time has passed and Joe is not happier or Mike has been unable to get his own apartment or Sherry hasn't been able to apply to college, their desired outcomes aren't happening.

If this is true for you, something needs to change for you to get to where you are making better progress on your personal recovery goals. Obstacles may need to be removed. More support may be needed or maybe your priorities have changed.

When outcomes on a person-centered plan aren't met, it is not a “blame you” issue. It is not something to be ashamed of. Instead, the Plan is looked at and changed to build up support in areas where you are not getting your desired outcomes. You may choose to change your goal, break your goal down into smaller, more achievable outcomes, or ask for different supports.