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An informational newsletter compiled by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association for the MH, IDD, and D&A communities MAY 2012 PCPA Members Present at National Council Conference Several PCPA members presented poster sessions at the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference in Chicago. The association con- gratulates all of them on the opportunity to present the work of Pennsylvania providers to a national audience. Poster presenters included: Organizational Analysis to Achieve Goals Kristin Volosky, MEd, MBA Wesley Spectrum Services Recovery-oriented Case Management: Improving Staff Recruitment and Retention Stephen Christian-Michaels, MA, LSW Family Services of Western Pennsylvania Integrating Behavioral Health Services with Pediatric Primary Care Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic Creating Safety Nets for Youth in Crisis: SAFELine Mandy Fauble, PhD, LCSW Safe Harbor Behavioral Health PCPA NEWS Connell O’Brien shares information about developing a statewide collab- orative to audience members at the National Council conference in April. Bankard and O’Brien Present in Chicago PCPA staff Jen Bankard and Connell O’Brien presented at the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference in Chicago. Their presentation, “Creating a Statewide Learning Community for Integrated Healthcare,” provided participants with an overview of Pennsylvania’s Physical Health/Behavioral Health Learning Community and a toolkit for those who want to develop their own learning community. Mandy Fauble is joined by Safe Harbor CEO Jon Evans during her poster presentation during the conference.

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Page 1: PCPA Members Present at National Council …PCPA Members Present at National Council Conference Several PCPA members presented poster sessions at the 42nd National Council Mental Health

An informational newsletter compiled by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association for the MH, IDD, and D&A communities

M A Y 2 0 1 2

PCPA Members Present at National Council ConferenceSeveral PCPA members presented poster sessions at the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference in Chicago. The association con-gratulates all of them on the opportunity to present the work of Pennsylvania providers to a national audience. Poster presenters included:

■ Organizational Analysis to Achieve Goals Kristin Volosky, MEd, MBA Wesley Spectrum Services

■ Recovery-oriented Case Management: Improving Staff Recruitment and Retention Stephen Christian-Michaels, MA, LSW Family Services of Western Pennsylvania

■ Integrating Behavioral Health Services with Pediatric Primary Care Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic

■ Creating Safety Nets for Youth in Crisis: SAFELine Mandy Fauble, PhD, LCSW Safe Harbor Behavioral Health ■

■ P C P A N E W S

Connell O’Brien shares information about developing a statewide collab-orative to audience members at the National Council conference in April.

Bankard and O’Brien Present in ChicagoPCPA staff Jen Bankard and Connell O’Brien presented at the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference in Chicago. Their presentation, “Creating a Statewide Learning Community for Integrated Healthcare,” provided participants with an overview of Pennsylvania’s Physical Health/Behavioral Health Learning Community and a toolkit for those who want to develop their own learning community. ■

Mandy Fauble is joined by Safe Harbor CEO Jon Evans during her poster presentation during the conference.

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providernews P C P A N E W S

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Executive DirectorGeorge J. Kimes

Deputy DirectorLynn Cooper

Policy SpecialistsLinda Drummond, MPAConnell O’Brien, MEd Betty Simmonds

Director of Legislative AffairsAnne McHugh Leisure, MHA

Technical & Conference Services CoordinatorKris Ericson, PhD

Membership & Marketing CoordinatorSteve Neidlinger, CAE

Director of Training & Resource DevelopmentJen Bankard

Office Manager Cindy Lloyd

Administrative/Fiscal AssistantTieanna Lloyd

Secretary Kathy Morrow

©2012. This newsletter is written by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association (PCPA) for the mental health, intellectual disability, and addictive disease communities. This informational newsletter is published monthly. Deadline for publication is the third Friday of every month.

Pennsylvania Community Providers Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

717-364-3280—Phone717-364-3287—Fax

www.paproviders.org

3 Director’s Viewpoint 5 Legislative Affairs 7 State News Briefs 9 On the Autism Spectrum 9 Conferences/Trainings 9 Mental Health Headlines

10 New Members 10 Across the Nation 12 Drug & Alcohol Action 14 IDD Focus 17 Children’s Corner 20 Calendar

I N T H I S I S S U E

Exhibit and Sponsor With PCPA in 2012The PCPA Conference Committee has released exhibit and sponsor informa-tion for Catch the Wave: Celebrating 40 Years, the 2012 conference. The event is October 9 – 12 at Seven Springs Mountain Resort. Access complete information now at www.paproviders.org/Pages/Conference_Archive_2012/Exhibit_Sponsor_042312.shtml.

Space and sponsorships are going fast — interested groups should make decisions about participating today! The deadline for inclusion in printed materials is June 15.

Exhibit activities are October 10 – 11. Events within Exhibit Hall include welcome refreshments, coffee breaks, lunch, a snack break, and prize give-aways. Exhibit hours are designed to assure that exhibitors — an integral component to conference success — have the opportunity to interact with attendees.

Through the use of sponsorship circles the association is able to honor all of its supporting organizations. Within each sponsorship circle specific events and items such as meals, receptions, speaker support, tote bags, attendee materials, etc. are also available, providing additional naming recognition for those sponsors interested. New in 2012 is the ability for anyone — individual or agency — to be a 40th anniversary “Ruby Supporter” through a financial contribution to the conference at any level. ■

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Science and Service

■ D I R E C T O R ’ S V I E W P O I N T

I am stuck this month in deciding on a topic for this column. Not so much that I can find nothing to write about, but that there is so

much going on it is difficult to choose. The state budget battles continue and our members and those they serve and support are struggling. Daily reports of layoffs and service reductions reach us in the office and the responsiveness of administration officials to the plight of those “in-need” seemingly diminishes daily. A recent survey conducted by the Behavioral Health/Intellectual Dis-abilities/Autism Coalition documented almost 600 layoffs and service reduc-tions for thousands. A survey in one large county of the potential impacts of proposed 20 percent reductions shows service reductions/eliminations to almost 5,000 consumers and more than 200 layoffs. Department of Public Welfare audits continue and the as-sault on providers worsens. Proposed regulations will make providers’ jobs even more difficult.

Yet, in the midst of this chaos, several events bolstered my optimism about the future long-term. Last month I commented briefly on the PCPA Technology Conference and the often cutting-edge technological innova-tions presented. The theme of in-novation continued as a fair number of Pennsylvania providers traveled to Chicago for the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Confer-ence (NatCon). It was an excellent conference and provided so many offerings that it was impossible to get to every presentation that interested me. If you wish to be in the forefront of change in the behavioral health field, you should attend the PCPA conference (October 9 – 12) and the

National Council conference (April 28 – 30, 2013).

Linda Rosenberg, National Council president and CEO, challenged attend-ees to be prepared for the next revolu-tion in our field. She emphasized the changing paradigm brought about by an increased focus on integrated care and the technological changes we will see. Technology will drive change. Use of smart phones and the multitude of healthcare apps grow daily. Consum-

ers are savvier and will continue to promote change based on technology.

While there was much at NatCon that struck me, two things stood out. First, in a small booth in the Expo Hall, I spoke with a representative of The University of Pittsburg Medical Center who is preparing an online version of an approach to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This program, Beating the Blues, originally developed in the United Kingdom should be noted by everyone in the field. It is an online, evidence-based program to treat de-pression and anxiety through CBT. For the last 18 months PCPA has worked to convince people of the crisis in outpatient services. While we need to continue our efforts, we also need to look at the future of treatment. While I am sure we will never completely remove the human and relationship-based aspect from care and treatment,

we must be open to new approaches. Consumers deserve and will demand it.

The second was a presentation by Dr. Thomas Insel, director, National In-stitute of Mental Health. My wife has had a long career doing brain research and for the last 20 years has worked at the National Institute on Drug Abuse doing cutting edge brain imaging. For many years I would find myself in social situations or accompanying her to meetings where leading neuro-

scientists would be discussing their research, only to have to return to my world of clinical care where the gap between science and service was often 20 years. Yet at NatCon, we were able to attend a session together that we both understood (or at least I think I understood most of it.) Dr. Insel’s presentation on neuroscience pro-gress showed a spectacular image of the wiring of the brain and described other scientific advances, including genome epigenomics that will aid our understanding of mental illness and bring new techniques to the treatment of mental illness. So budget battles aside, we must look to science and technology as we move forward. ■

George J. Kimes, Executive [email protected]

This column represents my opinion, not necessarily that of the association.

So budget battles aside, we must look to science and technology as we move forward.

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P C P A N E W S

PCPA held a Northeast Region meeting April 11. The meeting began with a presentation from Northeast Counseling Center and Scranton Counseling Center on their decision support system for incoming individuals in service. After that, a discussion surrounding the state budget was held with PCPA Executive Director George Kimes, Legislative Director Anne McHugh Leisure, and Lobbyist Morgan Plant. The discussion was a bleak but frank projection of the proposed state budget and attendees discussed several ways that they can and have pressured local officials. PCPA thanks all who attended. ■

Nebel Wins Humanitarian AwardPCPA Board Member Dennis Nebel, Human Services Center, New Castle has been selected as the recipient of the 2012 Jack Butz Humanitarian Award. The award is given annually to leaders in Lawrence County that serve their community on business and civic organizations. The award will be presented May 2 in New Castle. PCPA congratulates Dr. Nebel for this well-deserved achievement. ■

Please Sign the Budget Petition!The Behavioral Health/Intellectual Disabilities/Autism Coalition has created an online petition asking the administration to:

■ Oppose the block grant;■ Oppose proposed cuts to mental health, intellectual disability,

and drug and alcohol funding;■ Restore General Assistance benefits; and■ Be transparent in its processes.

The petition can be accessed at www.thepetitionsite.com/654/600/747/ protect-pennsylvanias-safety-net. Please share this link with employees, consumers, and families and ask them to sign on. Questions may be directed to Jen Bankard ([email protected]). ■

Leticia Couarrubias, Northeast Counseling Center, presents on the decision support system.

Children’s Service Center Celebrates 150thChildren’s Service Center of Wyoming Valley, Wilkes-Barre, cel-ebrated its 150th anniversary with a luncheon on April 11. The event featured the reading of resolutions from local elected representatives and an award to local community leader George Conyngham, Jr. for his service on the board. The highlight of the luncheon was the presentation by several students from the center’s partial hospital program, bravely describing what their experience at the agency means to them. PCPA congratu-lates Children’s Service Center for its history of service to the community. ■

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George Kimes, Anne Leisure, and Morgan Plant discuss state budget issues with members attending the region meeting.

Northeast Region Discusses State Budget

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■ L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

For additional information on legislative issues, contact PCPA at 717-364-3280. For copies of bills, call your local legislator, the House Document Room 717-787-5320, or visit the General Assembly’s Electronic Bill Room at www.legis.state.pa.us.

Concern About Federal Funds in Proposed Block GrantThe Behavioral Health Coali-tion has expressed concerns regarding whether Pennsylva-nia’s proposed human services block grant is consistent with federal requirements. Gover-nor Corbett’s proposed block grant includes federal funds, including portions of three federal block grants: Mental Health, Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment, and Social Services. The inclusion of funds from these sources raises a number of questions, primarily whether the state may take block-granted funds from the federal government and blend them into a dif-ferent, broader block grant administered by counties. The coalition also noted that historically Pennsylvania’s Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services has worked closely with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to assure compli-ance with SAMHSA require-ments, including appropriate review of the block grant plan by the required advisory board structure. The coalition hopes to get clarification on these concerns in the future. ■

PCPA Capitol Day

Registration Now Open! To avoid the devastation of Pennsylvania’s community services, it is crucially important that members take action! PCPA has partnered with the Mental Health Association of Southeastern Pennsylvania and other concerned associations and advocacy groups to come together on June 5 and fight jointly for a budget that is realistic and offers the support required by Pennsylvanians receiving behavioral health, intellectual disability, and autism services. The proposed state budget, with massive cuts and a major public policy shift to a block grant funding model, promises to devastate the current system and poses significant risks to recipients of community services. If services are to remain accessible and effective, funding must be preserved and Pennsylvania’s safety net must be protected.

Schedule■ The PCPA registration table will be in the Pennsylvania Capitol Rotunda and is avail-

able from 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Registered participants will sign-in and receive materi-als. PCPA staff will be available to assist members at the table throughout the event.

■ The legislative press conference/rally will begin promptly at 12:00 p.m. and take place either on the Capitol steps or in the Rotunda. This event features legislators and other speakers to rally the crowd and share support for community services.

Interested participants are asked to register by May 31. Everything needed to register and order Capitol Day T-shirts is online. Capitol Day T-shirts must be ordered by May 18. Members may access all handouts and other helpful materials, as well as email legislators from the web site. PCPA urges members, consumers, and families to join us June 5 to let elected officials know these services are essential and need to be supported! For more information contact Anne Leisure, director of legislative affairs at [email protected]. ■

June 5, 2012 • Harrisburg, PA

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L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

The Pennsylvania Association of Reha-bilitation Facilities (PARF) is holding a legislative rally May 8 at 10:00 a.m. in the Pennsylvania Capitol Rotunda in partnership with PCPA, The ARC of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania Waiting List Campaign, and Vision for Equality to call for adequate funding for community programs for people with intellectual disabilities. The rally calls on legislators to stop proposed funding reductions for individuals with intellectual disabilities and to provide

crucial support for the emergency wait-ing list. PARF maintains that without such funding those currently receiv-ing services will experience reductions in support, possibly threatening their health and safety. PCPA will participate in the PARF event and urges members who are unable to attend Capitol Day on June 5 to come to the Capitol on May 8.

The following rallies have also been scheduled and provide an opportu-nity to further support the advocacy community.

National Council Hill Day June 25 – 26Washington, DC

■ May 2, 10:00 a.m., Pennsylvania Brain Injury Coalition 2012 Legisla-tive Day;

■ May 2, 12:00 p.m., “Keep Your Promise” Rally sponsored by Visions for Equality and focused on the intellectual disability waiting list;

■ May 7, 11:00 a.m., Save PA’s Bridge to Stability & Self-Sufficiency Rally and Lobby Day sponsored by PA Cares for All and focused on General Assistance budget cuts. ■

Registration OpenThe National Council 2012 Hill Day is June 25 – 26 in Washington, DC at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Participants attend a full day of sessions and workshops on federal behavioral health policy followed by visits with elected officials on Capitol Hill to advocate for issues important to providers and consumers. Participation in Hill Day is more important than ever before as the US embarks on an era of dramatic change in the health care system that has profound implications for providers of community services. Hill Day gives PCPA members the opportunity to make sure lawmakers in Washington, DC understand the crucial importance of maintaining support for behavioral health services. More information can be found at www.thenationalcouncil.org/cs/join_us_in_2012. ■

PARF Hosts May 8 Legislative Rally

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■ S T A T E N E W S B R I E F S

MA Electronic Health Record Incentive Program Updates As of April 17 there were 3,097 eligible professionals (EP) and 117 eligible hospitals that had begun or completed a Pennsylvania Medical Assistance Provider Incentive Repository (MAPIR) application. Pay-ments of $54,336,300 to EPs and $62,524,145 to eligible hospitals were made. EPs can now attest to 90 days of meaningful use through the MAPIR system. Individuals enrolled in the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Registration and Attestation System for program year one need not reenter the system, but instead can access their PROMISe account and select the MAPIR link to begin application for meaningful use attestation. Group volume calculations may be used for Medicaid patient volume, but individual information must be used for meaningful use calculations. The online application includes additional information to assist with completion. A tip sheet summarizing the steps needed to apply for the program is available at www.dpw.state.pa.us/ucmprd/groups/webcontent/documents/document/p_011917.pdf. Information in the April Provider News, “EHR Incentive Program Update” (www. paproviders.org/Pages/PN_Archive/PN_042012.pdf) provided an overview of the Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Program timeline. Contact Betty Simmonds ([email protected]) with questions. ■

Special Event to Help Military-Connected ChildrenPCPA was pleased to participate in the special event “Living in the New Normal — Helping Military-Connected Children Thrive through Good and Challenging Times.” More than two million children have parents or sib-lings who have served at least once in harm’s way. For these military-connected children, their “new normal” includes deployment and separation from loved ones. Often challenges faced by these children go unrecognized and unsupported. It is conservatively estimated that Pennsylvania has over 31,000 military-connected children.

The event was organized by the non-profit Military Child Education Coa-lition (MCEC), a world-wide organization focused on ensuring quality educational opportunities for all military-connected children affected by mobility, family separation, and transition. More information about MCEC can be accessed at www.MilitaryChild.org. The MCEC-sponsored public engagement event was an excellent interactive collaboration among key community and state leaders to develop recognition of the challenges facing military-connected children and create a “home front” effort to help develop resilient children. Representing PCPA were Garrett Trout, Adams-Hanover Counseling Services; Jennifer Gesing, Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems; and Lynn Cooper, PCPA. ■

L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

Nominations Sought for Government Relations Award PCPA is seeking nominations for the 2012 Raymond R. Webb, Jr. Government Relations Award. This award recognizes outstanding efforts in the govern-ment relations area exemplified by the lifelong example of Ray Webb, Jr., who was a charter member, president, and executive director of PCPA. More than ever, those who support PCPA’s government relations efforts are invaluable to the continued success of member agencies, the health of clients, and the improvement of the human service system. PCPA believes that this award not only recognizes those who work on critical issues in behavioral health and intellectual dis-ability services, but that it also helps publicize these efforts and inspires others to do likewise.

The nominee can be a legislator, government official, active friend or supporter of PCPA issues, or a member of the association. The 2011 recipient was The National Council, who was unanimously chosen as an organiza-tion that exemplifies leadership in the healthcare legislative arena, work-ing effectively to spearhead legisla-tion on behalf of adults and children with mental illnesses and addictive diseases.

The award will be presented during a luncheon October 10 at the PCPA Conference. Nominations should be submitted by email to Anne Leisure no later than July 1. For more infor-mation please contact Ms. Leisure ([email protected]). ■

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MA Copayment Update Bulletin IssuedMedical Assistance Bulletin 99-12-03, Updates to Medical Assistance Copayment Policy, effective May 15 has been released. This bulletin is applicable to all providers enrolled in the Fee-for-Service (FFS) delivery system, including Access Plus. It is not applicable to managed care. This bulletin updates sliding scale co-payment amounts as indicated in final-omitted regulations published in the April 14 Pennsylvania Bul-letin. The final rule does not address copayment issues related to services for children with disabilities whose family income exceeds 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guide-lines. The bulletin does not include requirements for the imposition of a $2 per trip copayment for non-emergency medical transportation paratransit. The Office of Medical Assistance Programs can update the sliding scale copayment amounts to meet future increases. More informa-tion, including copayment rates, is available on the PCPA web site at www.paproviders.org. ■

S T A T E N E W S B R I E F S

Voter ID RequiredIn the recent primary election, voters were asked for identification (ID), but not required to produce it. Voter ID will be required in the November election. In an effort to mitigate onerous requirements for those who do not currently have suitable ID, the secretary of the commonwealth announced a process intended to make it easier for those who have had an expired driver’s license or non-driver license photo ID to obtain a valid ID that will authorize them to vote. Details about that process are available at www.paproviders.org. If a voter does not have a photo ID at the polls in November, he or she may use a provisional ballot and will have six days to provide a photo ID to the county election office in person, by mail, e-mail, or fax. More information is also available at www.VotesPA.com or 877-VOTESPA (877-868-3772). ■

Continuing Concern About Medication Access PCPA has requested member feedback on concerns related to individuals’ access to needed medications. The Office of Medical Assistance Programs (OMAP) has es-tablished a six-prescription per month limit, requires prior authorization for many medications, and limits therapeutic duplication, all of which can cause delay and obstruction for individuals needing medications, and many hours of uncompen-sated effort by providers to access the medications prescribed. PCPA has discussed these problems with colleagues who represent other provider, practitioner, and ad-vocacy organizations, all of whom are trying to resolve the issues. The Pennsylva-nia Psychiatric Society has developed a comprehensive data collection template for its members to submit information. PCPA continues to request member feedback to Betty Simmonds ([email protected]).

OMAP has indicated that efforts have been undertaken to reduce the backlog of prior authorization and exception requests. Further, it has reminded pharmacies that emergency supplies of medications must be dispensed. OMAP reported in mid-April there was no longer a telephone backlog and faxed requests for prior authorization were addressed within 24 hours. OMAP encouraged providers to contact the Pharmacy Call Center at 800-537-8862 and to submit faxed request forms as needed. These forms are available at www.dpw.state.pa.us/provider/ doingbusinesswithdpw/pharmacyservices/pharmacyservicesfaxforms/index.htm. ■

Pennsylvania’s Office of InnovationA Governor’s Innovation Office was created in the Office of Administration to “focus on initiatives to reduce state spending, eliminate waste, and improve service.” The office will review recommendations made by the Governor’s Advisory Council on Privatization and Innovation, by state agencies, and those made by the public through an online survey. The advisory council will present its recom-mendations for priority initiatives in May. Initiatives undertaken will be accom-plished mainly by project teams of existing employees from across state agencies. The executive order that establishes the Office of Innovation may be viewed at www.oa.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/executive_orders/708. ■ p

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■ O N T H E A U T I S M S P E C T R U M

CDC Report on Autism The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) now estimate at least one in 88 chil-dren in the US has been identified with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Autism appears to be five times more common among boys than girls. The new study, published in Pediatrics, indicates one in six children have been diagnosed with a developmental disability from 2006-2008. To review this report or to obtain fact sheets, resource kits, growth charts, and other infor-mation visit www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/autism/index.html. ■

Bureau Advisory Board OverviewThe April Bureau of Autism Services (BAS) Advisory Board meeting included an update by Office of Developmental Programs Deputy Secretary Friel and the ASERT Projects. Friel provided an overview of his recent meetings with families and individuals in Luzerne and Allegheny counties. On the issue of increased institutionalizations he indicated that the Joint ODP/Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Dually Diagnosed Project will be helpful in dealing with individuals with complex needs and developing appropri-ate programming for them. BAS Director Nina Wall-Coté will advocate with Friel to continue this advisory committee as an active work group, since the department is changing committees’ structure.

The Autism Services, Education, Resources, and Training (ASERT) centers are located in three regions across the state. Each is a partnership of medical centers, autism research and services centers, universities, and service pro-viders. The update focused on the major areas of clinical services, education and resources, and training. ■

May 17. Diagnosis, Psychopharmacology, and Treatment of Psychosis for the Non-Prescriber. Fairmount Behavioral Health System. Philadelphia, PA. Advance registration required at www.fairmountbhs.com. The training is free and CEs are available. Call 215-487-4030 with questions.

June 5 – 7. Recovery Unlimited: Rising Above Challenges. Sheraton Harris-burg Hershey. Harrisburg, PA. Register at www.pmhca.org/conference/index.html or contact the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Association at 717-564-4930.

June 6. Gender-specific Approaches with Girls and Women: Translating Research into Practice. Fairmount Behavioral Health System. Philadelphia, PA. Advance registration required at www.fairmountbhs.com. The training is free and CEs are available. Call 215-487-4030 with questions. ■

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■ M E N T A L H E A L T H H E A D L I N E S

Training on Dementia

Understanding Dementia: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Behavioral Manage-ment will be presented by Linda Shumaker, RN-BC, MA, outreach coordinator, Pennsylvania Behav-ioral Health and Aging Coalition. Sessions are May 9 in Luzerne County (Temple Apartments, 5 Heisz St, Edwardsville) and May 16 in Clearfield County (Lock Haven University Clearfield Campus – Classroom A131, 201 University Dr, Clearfield). Both sessions are from 10:00 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. For more information and to register, access the flyer at www.olderpa.org. ■

Public Service Psychiatry Conference

ScheduledWellness and Prevention: Common Ground for Integrated Care is June 18 at the Omni William Penn Hotel, Pittsburgh. This confer-ence is presented by the Center for Public Service Psychiatry of Western Psychiatric Institute and Clinic and will focus on topics related to integration of care and services, including health preven-tion and promotion, recovery and chronic care models, peer support specialists in integrated systems, accountable care organizations and health homes, and workforce de-velopment for integrated systems. Contact Eileen McKenna at 412-624-2191 or [email protected] for more information. ■

■ C O N F E R E N C E S / T R A I N I N G S

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New HHS Department CreatedThe US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has created a new component which expands on President Obama’s “Year of Community Living.” The Administration on Community Living (ACL) will promote community living for persons with disabilities and senior citizens. ACL combines the Administra-tion on Aging, Office on Disability, and Administration on Developmental Disabilities into a single agency. Emphasis will be on initiatives that go beyond health care and include appropriate housing, employment, education, and socialization options. Additional information is available at www.hhs.gov/acl. ■

Open Government Plan RevisedTwo years ago the US Department of Health and Human Services created its first “Open Government Plan.” The second edition is available at www.hhs.gov/open/plan/opengovernmentplan/index.html. The focus of the plan is to offer transparency, collaboration, and participation as key principles are addressed to improve citizens’ health and health care. The new plan identifies three themes; advancing medical products, promoting cultural change, and enhanc-ing data quality and usability. ■

“Out of Balance” ReportThe Center on Budget and Policy Priorities is working at the federal and state levels on fiscal policy and public programs that affect low-income families and individuals. The center examines the short- and long-term impacts of proposed policies on the health of the economy and the soundness of federal and state budgets. Its most recent report, “Out of Balance,” looks at cuts in services states have implemented due to budget gaps under current economic condi-tions. State budget gaps over the past five years have led to $290 billion in cuts to public services and $100 billion in tax and fee increases. Spending cuts have impacted education, health care, and human services. States have can-celled vendor contracts, reduced payments to businesses and nonprofits, and cut benefit payments to individuals. A copy is available at www.cbpp.org. ■

ICD-10 Delay ProposedThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) issued proposed regulations April 9 that delay compliance with International Classification of Diseases, Edition 10, Diagnosis and Procedure Codes (ICD-10). The compliance date for use of ICD-10 codes is October 1, 2013, but the proposed regula-tions change the compliance date to October 1, 2014. This delay would afford providers time to prepare and test systems for transition to the new code sets. More information is available at www.cms.gov/apps/media/fact_sheets.asp. The proposed Administrative Simplification rule is available at www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2012-04-17/pdf/2012-8718.pdf. Comments are due May 17. Instructions for submitting comments are included in the Federal Register. Members are asked to provide a copy of any comments to Betty Simmonds (betty@ paproviders.org). ■

■ A C R O S S T H E N A T I O N■ N E W M E M B E R S

PROVIDER MEMBERSEmpowering People in the Community (EPIC)Delano Williams Executive DirectorBala Cynwyd

Family Services of Northwest PennsylvaniaTom Vinca CEOErie

ASSOCIATE MEMBEROptumHealthKenneth Anderson VP, Public Sector Business DevelopmentGolden Valley, MN

BUSINESS MEMBERBRB ConsultingAndrew MartinSalesMedia

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A C R O S S T H E N A T I O N

My Kind of Town

by Susan Blue

As we return from the 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference, I cannot help but reflect on the strong rela-tionship between PCPA and the National Council. Once again, nearly 150 Pennsylvanians attended the conference in Chicago. On behalf of the board and leadership of the National Council, I thank all that attended.

I have had the privilege in recent years to serve on the National Council board as a representative from Region 3 and am now step-ping onto the Executive Committee. I have been fortunate to par-ticipate with a progressive group that has transformed itself into a powerful advocate for the behavioral health community.

As I move to the executive committee, there will be an opening for a representative from Region 3. It is very important that there be a strong candidate from Pennsylvania who will work to continue the positive relationship between the state and national associations. The PCPA Executive Committee will be considering an approach to help maintain this positive connection. I believe we should support an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to PCPA through membership and participation in association’s activities. I would also urge that we support an individual who has demonstrated leadership in the association. Finally, I would urge that any candidate have a strong commitment to coordinate with PCPA, if elected.

With continual changes in the future of the service delivery system, PCPA’s continued collaboration with the National Council will be cru-cial. I take pride in my years of service on the National Council board and look forward to the next team of leaders continuing the relation-ship between state and federal advocates. ■

Medicare UpdateThe Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued the following documents that may be of interest to members:

■ Transmittal 414, Change Re-quest 7797, April 13, General Update to Chapter 15 of the Program Integrity Manual (PIM) – Part V. This update to Publication 100-08, Medicare Program Integrity, describes return, rejection, and denial of CMS-855 forms, Change of Ownership applications, revalidations, and reactivations.

■ The Medicare Mental Health Services booklet (www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNProducts/Downloads/Mental_Health_ Services_ICN903195.pdf) was revised and reissued. This booklet identifies covered mental health services, those that are not covered, eligible professionals, and outpatient and inpatient psychiatric hospital services.

■ Fast facts are available on the MLN Provider Compliance web page (www.cms.gov/Outreach-and-Education/ Medicare-Learning-Network-MLN/MLNProducts/Provider-Compliance.html) to help Medicare Fee-for-Service pro-viders avoid common billing and other errors. Fast facts are added monthly. ■

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■ D R U G & A L C O H O L A C T I O N

Rothermel Moves to Bureau of Communicable DiseasesAfter 20 years Robin Rothermel has decided to move to direct the Bureau of Communicable Diseases. PCPA wishes Ms Rothermel all the best in her new role and extends a special thanks for the many years of hard work on behalf of drug and alcohol services! Below is a note from Ms. Rothermel to PCPA members.

To my friends at PCPA:

I wanted to take the opportunity to thank PCPA for your support in both my role as the Bureau Director and previously as the Director of Treatment. It is with mixed feelings that I am announc-ing my resignation from BDAP. I will certainly miss this work and advocating for those who suffer from substance use disorders. As some of you know I have been working in the field for over 20 years, so obviously the decision to leave was not made lightly. I have been presented with an opportunity to expand my knowledge and scope of work into another area of public health, and I have accepted the position of Director for the Bureau of Communicable Diseases within the De-partment of Health. Fortunately, my new role will still allow me to work in coordination with the new department and the field in areas like HIV/AIDS, TB and Hepatitis C.

I truly want to thank you for your support over the past 10 years and for the work that you do. I know that what you do isn’t easy, and with dwindling resources and increased demand it keeps getting more difficult. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to work with all of you. My last day with BDAP will be May 4th. Since I am maintaining employment with the commonwealth my email address will not change, so please don’t hesitate to drop me a note every now and then.

Again, thank you and God Bless!

Robin

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George Kimes, Morgan Plant, and Lynn Cooper met in April with Secretary Gary Tennis and Deputy Secretary Kim Bowman of the new Department of Drug and Alcohol. Todd Shamash of the governor’s staff was also present. Numerous issues were discussed and included:

■ Stopping the block grant,■ Restoring the 20 percent and General Assistance cuts,■ Reforming regulations,■ Protecting the carve-out,■ Removing the nine-month limit,■ Improving expedited enrollment,■ Improving methadone regulations,■ Supporting appropriate assessments and the full

continuum of care,

■ Improving access to medication-assisted therapy,■ Increasing and supporting co-occurring efforts, and■ Advocating for health care reform and the inclusion

of substance use disorder treatment.

PCPA promised to share a copy of its 2008 position paper Drug and Alcohol Licensing Problems and Recommendations for Changes. A few of the issues have been addressed, but many remain a problem today. Secretary Tennis expressed a strong interest in efforts to address delayed Medical Assistance enrollment. Secretary Tennis and Deputy Secre-tary Bowman were invited to meet with the PCPA Drug and Alcohol Committee June 13. PCPA looks forward to work-ing with the department to improve the drug and alcohol system in Pennsylvania. ■

PCPA Meets With Department of Drug and Alcohol

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Luongo Receives “Heroes for Justice” AwardExecutive Director Dr. Peter Luongo, LCSW-C, Institute for Research, Education and Train-ing in Addictions, has been se-lected by the University of Mar-yland School of Social Work as one of 50 “Social Work Heroes for Justice” for his significant contribution to the greater community and whose work in policy, practice, research, and education has elevated the reputation and visibility of the social work profession. Luongo was presented with the award at the university’s 50th anniver-sary awards dinner April 28. ■

Webinar Discusses Implications of TerminologyA May 9 webinar, led by Ray Daugherty, president of Preven-tion Research Institute and co-author of the PRIME For Life programs is available at no cost. Titled “Rediscover-ing Alcoholism, Addiction and Dependence,” the presenta-tion will explore the distinct and separate histories of these terms and their intended mean-ings. It will demonstrate how to avoid using the words as synonyms to improve patient outcomes and to facilitate more meaningful communica-tion between researchers and practitioners. Register at http://ireta.org/webinars. ■

D R U G & A L C O H O L A C T I O N

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Coalition Hosts Secretary Tennis and Deputy Secretary SmithOn April 16 the Pennsylvania Drug and Alcohol Coalition had an op-portunity to speak with leadership from the forthcoming Department of Drug and Alcohol – Secretary Gary Tennis and Deputy Secretary Kim Bowman. Deputy Secretary Blaine Smith, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS), also attended the meet-ing and answered questions. All three noted future opportunities for synergy between the new department and OMHSAS.

Secretary Tennis offered a sketch of his background in the Philadel-phia District Attorney’s Office and detailed the monumental efforts underway to assemble the new department. He and Deputy Secre-tary Bowman articulated the strong commitment within the new department to interface with the multitude of agencies and organi-zations that connect to substance abuse in the commonwealth. Smith outlined his history in banking and finance and his recent work overseeing managed care in Blair County. He offered informa-tion about Pennsylvania’s System of Care grants and discussed ways that measuring quality using benchmarks and outcomes fits into a recovery-oriented system of care.

Coalition members asked questions and raised issues including:

■ The potential elimination of the general assistance welfare category;

■ The role of the coalition in relation to the new department;

■ The need for a unifying statewide construct for substance abuse services such as Recovery-Oriented System of Care (ROSC);

■ Opportunities to amend regulations to support ROSC, including reducing regulatory and administrative burdens on providers;

■ The benefits of increased cooperation between the Departments of Drug and Alcohol and Public Welfare to be responsive to clients with co-occurring disorders;

■ The importance of expedited enrollment in Medical Assistance for drug and alcohol clients; and

■ Workforce development. ■

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ODP Proposed Waivers Renewals The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has made available copies of the Consolidated and Person/Family Directed Support Waivers renewal applica-tions for services effective July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2017. Details are avail-able at www.odpconsulting.net, Announcement #022-12. Some of the major changes are listed below.

Consolidated Waiver■ Additional services added to fee-schedule;

■ Remove grandfathering regarding size of setting and increase allowable setting size;

■ Added reserved capacity to ensure access for certain groups and adjusted capacity to better reflect actual enrollment and size utilization;

■ Remove certain units (per diem) for transportation;

■ Include vacancy factor in rates for residential services and remove bed reservation from service option;

■ Clarifications and improvements to safeguards, including those related to restraints and restrictive intervention and medication management;

■ Clarifications and improvements to service definitions;

■ Changes to frequency of provider qualification verification and the entities that perform them;

■ Clarify the manner in which ODP conducts annual SCO oversight; and

■ Clarify the tools used to assess individual needs (Supports Intensity Scale).

Person/Family Directed Waiver

■ Increase cost limit to $30,000 per year;

■ Reserved capacity to ensure waiver access for certain individuals and adjusted waiver capacity to better reflect actual enrollment and service utilization;

■ Remove certain units (per diem) for transportation;

■ Clarifications and improvements to safeguards related to restraints, restric-tive interventions, and medication management;

■ Clarifications to service definitions;

■ Changes to frequency of provider qualification verification;

■ Clarify ODP annual supports coordination organization oversight; and

■ Clarify tools used to assess individual needs (Supports Intensity Scale). ■

Joint Aging/ID CommitteeThe Departments of Aging and Public Welfare, in collabora-tion with the Long Term Living Training Institute, have funded 16 county departments to implement Aging and Intel-lectual Disability teams to develop and implement training activities for county aging and intellectual disability (ID) staff, community providers, and advocates. Teams are also to review challenging cases to promote coordination, effi-ciency, and appropriate services across both systems.

The committee is finalizing presentations for the September Building Bridges: Cross Systems Conference. Confirmed presen-tations include trauma informed care, how to access aging and ID services, resources for af-fordable housing, innovative housing models, dual diagnosis, ethics, assistive technology, SmartHomes, and health and fitness.

Medical Director Jill Morrow provided an update regard-ing the aging curriculum. The first two lessons are available at www.odpconsulting.net. The first lesson provides an overview of aging issues and differences in aging for people with ID. Lesson two provides information regarding wellness, medical complexities, risks, and mental illness with aging. Ten additional topics are under development. ■

■ I D D F O C U S

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White House Disability GroupThe White House Disability call shared information about National Council on Disabilities (NCD) recommendations on Medicaid managed care models being used by states to pay for long-term care for individuals with disabilities and the elderly. NCD, an independent federal agency, develops recommendations to the President and Congress regarding disability policies. Its viewpoint on using a managed care model is it can increase coordination of preventative care and offers opportunities for cost containment and enhancing quality. The council’s report will be released this fall and available at www.ncd.gov. NCD sent a letter with specific recommendations to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Ser-vices. The letter included 20 principles for “Successfully Enrolling People with Disabilities in Managed Care Plans.” The recommendations are available at www.nasddds.org/pdf/CMSMANAGEDCARENCDRECOMMENDATIONS%201.pdf. ■

IM4Q Updates■ The recent Independent Monitoring for Quality Management (IM4Q) Com-

mittee addressed the status of local project monitoring and reporting issues with HCSIS. Statewide training is July 24 – 25 in Harrisburg. Beginning in 2013/14 Supports Coordination Organizations will no longer be doing satis-faction surveys. These will be done by the IM4Q team.

■ An improved National Core Indicators (NCI) web site is now operational at www.nationalcoreindicators.org. NCI is a collaboration with participating states (including Pennsylvania) to look at performance monitoring systems, identify common performance indicators, and share data collection results. ■

Act 22 ODP Regulations ChangesThe Department of Public Welfare (DPW), under the authority of Act 22 of 2011, proposed Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) regulation changes to the Home and Community Based Waiver services. PCPA sent comments to ODP re-garding the proposed regulation changes. A copy of the comments is available at www.paproviders.org (IDD Update 031212). ■

Service Definitions Under ReviewThe Alliance for Full Participation (AFP) Service Definitions work group is re-viewing current definitions used by the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) for supported employment services. This committee is a joint effort with the Alliance, ODP, and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation emphasizing employ-ment options for individuals with intellectual disability. Currently in draft form, the proposed changes will be shared with providers for input before finalization. It is anticipated the new definitions would become effective in 2013/14. ■

I D D F O C U S

Visionary VoicesThe Temple University Institute on Disabilities is coordinating taping of the history of the intellectual disability movement in Pennsyl-vania. The state has played an historical role in the development of public policy that has empha-sized the right to education, clos-ing of state institutions, emphasis on community living, and the rights of individuals. A variety of parents and professionals that helped create the community system over the past 60 years are being interviewed to have their memories and stories saved for future generations. Visionary Voices interviews may be viewed at http://disabilities.temple.edu/voices/interviews.asp. ■

NADSP Code of EthicsThe National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP) has developed a code of ethics to guide direct support staff in re-solving ethical dilemmas they face every day. A copy is available at www.nadsp.org. In addition, the agency offers intensive training for direct support and supervisory staff. NADSP will provide this one-day training at member agencies. Topics covered include the five elements of any profession, code of ethics encounter, small group sessions on personal experiences and competency area, and a com-mitment ceremony. For details contact [email protected] or call 518-449-7551. ■

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Disability Employment InitiativeThe US Department of Labor’s Disability Employment Initiative is funding nine state efforts to improve educa-tion, training, and employment opportunities for youth and adults who are unemployed, underemployed, or receiving Social Security disability benefits. Components of the initiative may include integrated resource teams, customized employment, self-employment, partnerships, and collaboration. States participating in the grants must expand their workforce development systems by participating in the Ticket to Work Program by becoming an employment network. Details are available at www.doleta.gov/disability/. ■

O D P U P D A T E S

Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Updates are available at www.odpconsulting.net.

Informational Memo #016-12: Reprocessing Scheduled for SC Waiver Claims. AE and SCO Action Requested.

Announcement #017-12: Cor-rective Action Plan Process to Support AE Oversight, Provider and SCO Monitoring Webcast Now Available.

Informational Memo #019-12: Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania Review.

Informational Packet #020-12: Certified Investigation Summary.

Informational Memo #021-12: Reprocessing Schedule for SC and TSM Waiver Claims That Were Denied Due to CIS Interface Issues.

I D D F O C U S

Informational Memo #023-12: ODP ID Provider Handbook Up-dated and Now Available.

ODP Announcement #024-12: AE Oversight Monitoring Cycle 3 Documents Now Available. These are questions and guidelines on Cycle 3 for AE staff participating in oversight monitoring.

Informational Packet #025-12: Preparations for the Fiscal Year 2012/13 ISP Renewal Period: Action Required. Guidance for AEs, SCOs, and direct service providers during the ISP renewal period. The estimated 2012/13 waiver rates are expected to be viewable in HCSIS by the end of May.

Announcement #026-12: ODP Outcomes Trainings: Frequently Asked Questions Now Available. Responses reflect current ODP policies and practices. After July 1 and the approval of the waiver renewal applications, some ODP business practices may change.

ODP Announcement #027-12: Data Warehouse Webcasts Now Available. Provides information on how to use the data ware-house and reviews the types of data available.

Informational Memo #028-12: Enhancements to HCSIS Incident Report Screens and Incident Management Report.

Announcement #029-12: Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent New Assisted Enrollment Process. The new process is available by call-ing 866-717-6251 and eliminates completion of enrollment forms by employers and employees.

Announcement #030-12: Status of 2012 ODP Required Trainings for Supports Coordinators and SC Supervisors.

Announcement #031-12: FY 10-11 IM4Q Summary Report Now Available. ■

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■ C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Education Law Center Names New DirectorFor many years PCPA has collaborated with Pennsylvania’s Education Law Center (ELC) around efforts to ensure that students with special needs and challenges had access to public education. In April, the ELC announced that Rhonda Brownstein, “a visionary leader with extraordinary experience,” accepted the position as the new executive director. She will begin June 4. As legal director for the prestigious and nationally respected Southern Poverty Law Center, Ms. Brownstein led the organization’s legal program through the development and implementation of major strategic and operational changes. She was lead and co-counsel in many complex class action federal and state lawsuits on behalf of public schools students, children in the criminal justice system, and other at-risk populations. Ms. Brownstein grew up in Philadel-phia. She spent time in Pittsburgh as a legal services staff attorney before taking her position at the Southern Poverty Law Center. She is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University and Temple University School of Law. PCPA welcomes Ms. Brownstein back to Pennsylvania. ■

Pennsylvania Child Welfare Resource CenterThe Pennsylvania Child Welfare Training Program (CWTP) in Mechanicsburg has changed its name to The Pennsylvania Child Welfare Resource Center. Over the years the program has grown by expanding components such as:

■ Organizational Effectiveness, ■ Family and Youth Engagement, ■ Transfer of Learning, ■ Continuous Quality Improvement, and ■ Research and Evaluation.

The new name reflects the additional activities and services designed to fa-cilitate and deliver high quality support services and professional skills for the state’s child welfare system. The center expects to fully implement this name change by July 1. ■

Pediatric Psychotropic Medication ReportIn 2009 the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) convened stakeholders to address key issues related to pediatric psycho-tropic medication. The goal was to develop recommendations for providers, the Department of Public Welfare, and other stakeholders. The need for this effort has been driven by the dramatic increase in the prevalence and severity of psychiatric disorders in childhood and adolescence. In response to these concerns, with the goal of intervening early, there has been increased use of psychotropic medication in the pediatric population. The work group report ad-dresses a range of critical issues and serves to identify best practices related to pediatric psychotropic medication use and offer recommendations for further action. The full report is available at www.parecovery.org/documents/CA_Med_Report_022512.pdf. ■

.Marilyn Mennis Memorial AwardThe Marilyn Mennis Memorial Award is presented each year during the PCPA conference. Members are encouraged to nominate an individual or creative pro-gram that reflects Ms. Mennis’ qualities of dedication, caring, leadership, and advocacy on behalf of Pennsylvania’s children with special needs and their families. Past recipients of the award have included Stan Mrozowski, Pete Rubel, Michael Reber, Guy Diamond, and Michael Pennington. This award was established by PCPA in 1995 in honor of Marilyn Mennis, a tireless advocate for developing quality services for persons with special needs with a distinguished history of service to Pennsylvania’s children and families as an advocate, agency executive, and president of PCPA. Members wishing to submit nomina-tions should contact Connell O’Brien at [email protected]. Nominations should be submitted by May 11. ■

New DPW Web Site and Form for Child Abuse History Clearance The Department of Public Welfare (DPW) has revised the Pennsylvania Child Abuse History Clearance form (CY113) and has posted the revised form at www.dpw.state.pa.us/findaform/ childabusehistoryclearanceforms/index.htm. The revised form has a new format and is “data enterable.” The form is available in English and Spanish. DPW will continue to accept the old form until April 1, 2013. More information about the new form and significant changes is available from the PCPA web site at www.paproviders.org/Pages/Childrens_Archive/New_Child_Abuse_Form_032912.shtml. ■ p

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C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Building Bridges for RTF in the System of CareFor several years PCPA has represented residential and community-based treat-ment providers as part of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration-led Building Bridges Initiative (BBI) and national BBI summits. This summer the Georgetown Training Institute will feature a two-day pre- institute July 24 – 25 entitled Effective Residential Service Interventions in Systems of Care. This pre-institute will offer the same type of inspiration and practical ideas as past national Building Bridges Initiative Summits have in a highly focused and organized framework. Residential Treatment Facility (RTF) providers interested in moving programs into the best practice arena will find that the pre-institute offers participants:

■ A strong understanding about what constitutes best programmatic and clinical practices;

■ An understanding of state/county/city and programmatic partnership practices, fiscal strategies, and policies proven to be successful;

■ An introduction to successful strategies to support the culture change necessary;

■ The ability to use a number of documents (e.g., guidelines, tip sheets, self-assessment tools) to support positive outcomes for youth and families;

■ A checklist of resources and contact information; and

■ An individualized action plan that identifies specific steps each participant can take to implement best practices.

Registration information is available at http://gucchdtacenter.georgetown.edu/Activities/TrainingInstitutes/index.html. ■

The SoC Partnership Needs Provider InputPCPA has been asked to support the Pennsylvania System of Care (SoC) Partner-ship planning grant initiative by encouraging members and the broader commu-nity to complete a brief system analysis and needs survey. The partnership was awarded a one-year grant allowing the state to strategically plan for statewide expansion of the SoC. Information shared will help state leaders design a plan for how Pennsylvania systems work with youth and families. Provider agencies and staff are invited to participate in this important planning initiative by com-pleting this survey at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/PA_System_of_Care_ Expansion_Planning_Survey_2012. The System of Care Partnership is a federally-funded project operated through the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services to improve systems by using a structured youth- and family-driven approach. The primary service population is youth ages 8 – 18 who have complex behavioral health challenges, involvement in the child welfare and/or juvenile justice systems, and are in or at risk of out-of-home placement. ■

Equality comes in realizing that we are all doing different jobs for a common purpose. That is the aim behind any community. The very name community means let’s come together to recognize the unity. Come ... unity.

– Swami Satchidananda

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C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Celebrate National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day May 9 is National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day. More than 1,100 communities and 115 federal programs and national organizations across the country will partici-pate in events, youth demonstrations, and social network-ing campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of children’s mental health. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Service Administration is hosting an event to share the message that, with the help of caring adults and informed child-serving systems, young people can

demonstrate resiliency following traumatic experiences. The national focus will also address strategies to assist military families in enhancing resilience. Members of the 115 national awareness day collaborating organizations will support affiliates and grantees in organizing events to view the national webcast and begin conversations about the importance of children’s mental health. Find out more at www.samhsa.gov/children or e-mail [email protected]. ■

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Friday, May 11 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. Northwest Region Meeting Safe Harbor Behavioral Health, Erie

Tuesday, May 15 9:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Children’s Steering Committee PCPA

Wednesday, May 16 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Executive Committee PCPA

Wednesday – Thursday, May 16 – 17

5:30 – 8:30 p.m. (May 16) 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. (May 17)

Board Retreat Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Monday, May 21 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Health Care Opportunities Summit Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Tuesday, May 22 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Adolescent Forensic Committee Criminal Justice Committee PCPA

Wednesday, May 30 10:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Southwest Region Meeting Quality Inn Bedford

Tuesday, June 5 Capitol Day Harrisburg

Wednesday, June 13 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 12:45 – 4:00 p.m. 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Mental Health Committee Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Committee SCO Subcommittee Executive Committee Drug & Alcohol Committee Children’s Committee Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Thursday, June 14 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Membership Committee Board Meeting Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Pennsylvania CommunityProviders Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

■ C A L E N D A R

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PRSRT. STD.U.S. POSTAGE

PAID Harrisburg, PAPermit No. 24