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2 PCPA News 3 Director’s Viewpoint 9 Legislative Affairs 11 Mental Health Headlines
12 Across the Nation 15 Drug & Alcohol Action 16 MR Report 18 Children’s Corner
20 On the Autism Spectrum 20 Conferences and Trainings 21 Committee Reports 22 Calendar
Provider NewsN o v e m b e r 2 0 0 7
An informational newsletter compiled by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association for the MH, MR, and D&A communities
e I N S I D e
October 16 – 19 found 620 providers, fam-
ily members, state and county officials,
managed care representatives, and
industry-related partners participating in the
PCPA conference at Seven Springs Mountain Resort.
Keeping with the theme the weekly schedule enhanced opportunities for networking, included additional educational topics, enhanced visibil-ity for exhibitors and sponsors, and delivered a closing plenary with state officials discussing system plans and issues. Highlighting activities during the week were presentations of annual PCPA awards to exemplary individuals in the field, activities sponsored by the GRI Alumni
Celebrating 35 Years
Network and Legislative Affairs Committee to enhance the role of the association’s legislative agenda and political action committee, forums and workshops, networking events, prize give-aways, and ongoing dialogue about enhance-ment of services to persons with mental illness and serious emotional disturbances, substance use disorders, and mental retardation. Keynote speaker Ken Tucker addressed the issues of leadership in the 21st century.
The State of the State Plenary brought Deputy Secretary Joan Erney, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services; Deputy Secretary Kevin Casey, Office of
Mental Retardation; Deputy Secretary Richard Gold, Office of Children, Youth and Families; and Acting Director Robin Rothermel, Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs; together with the provider community to discuss current initiatives of each office.
Uniting…continued on page 4
Uniting… S e r v i c e , i n t e g r i t y , P a S S i o n
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007
Provider News
executive DirectorGeorge J. Kimes
Deputy DirectorLynn Cooper
Policy SpecialistsLinda Drummond, MPAConnell O'Brien, MEd Betty Simmonds
Director of Legislative AffairsMelissa DiSanto Simmons
Technical & Conference Services CoordinatorKris Ericson, PhD
membership & marketing CoordinatorSteve Neidlinger
Administrative Assistant Cindy Lloyd
SecretaryTieanna BortzErin Asbury ©2007. This newsletter is written by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Associ-ation (PCPA) for the mental health, mental retardation, and addictive disease com-munities. This informational newsletter is published monthly. Deadline for publication is the third Friday of every month.
Pennsylvania Community Providers AssociationBldg 3, Ste 2002101 N Front StHarrisburg, PA 17110
717-364-3280—Phone717-364-3287—Fax
2 E
PCPA members Among best Places to workPCPA members Stairways behavioral Health, Erie, and Home Nursing Agency, Altoona, have again been named by the Central Penn Business Journal as two of the 50 Best Places to Work in Pennsylvania for 2007. The awards are given to medium- and large-sized companies. Stairways and Home Nursing, having more than 250 employees, are considered large-sized employers. This determination makes this accomplishment even more impressive, considering that both agencies compete with some of Pennsylvania’s most visible employers including hospitals, insurance companies, and banks.
Both agencies credit several reasons for their continued success in these rank-ings. The primary reason for Stairways is humility. According to Bill McCarthy, Stairways CEO, “Any company that thinks they have the best place to work doesn’t have the best place to work.” This attitude allows for a continuous focus on improvement. “Never, never, never think it is the function of administration,” continued McCarthy. Instead, he acknowledges the company-wide belief in the mission of Stairways and the supportive involvement of the board of directors.
Similarly, Nancy Imes, senior vice president of community services at Home Nursing, credits their agency’s emphasis on what they refer to as “a distinct culture of leadership.” According to Imes, “You can’t have a satisfied customer without a satisfied employee and you can’t have a satisfied employee without the support of a leader.” This culture relies on consistent evaluation to deter- mine that the potential for excellence is “hardwired” into every program. PCPA congratulates Stairways and Home Nursing Agency on this notable achievement. f
E P C PA N e w S
ProvIDer memberSUnity Family ServicesMichelle S. Gould, MSW, LSW CEOLeechburg
Community Alternatives, Inc.Vincent Gallo CEOVirginia Beach, VA
St. John vianney CenterThomas F. Dugan, LSWAdministratorDowningtown
Developmental education Services of monroe County, Inc.Susan Folk Executive DirectorStroudsburg
PCPA News continued on page 6
E N e w m e m b e r S
ASSoCIATe membermental Health Association of Southeastern PennsylvaniaChristine Simiriglia Vice President/ProgramsPhiladelphia
bUSINeSS memberAxion of PA, LLC d/b/a Axion Healthcare SolutionsAllan Ginsberg Vice PresidentConshohocken
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 3 F
E D I r e C T o r ’ S v I e w P o I N T
George J. Kimes
CelebratingI
n October 1984 I attended my first PCPA conference. With one exception, I have attended every conference since then. Twenty-four years, 23 conferences, and each one seems to get better. This year is no exception. The 2007 conference, Uniting…Service, Integrity, Passion: Celebrating 35 Years, was excellent. If you weren’t there,
you missed the premier conference in our field in the commonwealth. If you were at the meeting, thank you for attending and I hope you had a great experience.
The highlights were numerous. A great keynote address by Ken Tucker stimulated discussion about leadership for the 21st century. Two receptions and the famous Seven Springs barbecue provided great food as well as great times to net-work and meet others. Over 65 workshop sessions, including a new leadership track, provided many learning opportuni-ties. The association’s annual awards were also presented. I offer my sincere congratulations and thanks to Stan Mrozowski, Patricia Valentine, and Senator Pat Vance for their service and commitment.
The final day of the conference featured key state officials in a State of the State Plenary. Deputy Secretaries Kevin Casey, Office of Developmental Programs (ODP), and Joan Erney, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, again represented their offices. We were pleased that Deputy Secretary Richard Gold, Office of Children Youth and Families joined us, marking the first time the office has been rep-resented on this panel. Ms. Robin Rothermel, acting director, Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs, represented Deputy Secretary Joanne Grossi, Office of Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Their updates and responses to questions provided guidance as to their future plans.
New this year were several special sessions, one featuring key ODP staff offering up-to-the-minute information on the rapidly changing mental retardation system. Another special session featured key state officials from welfare, education, and health to discuss chil-dren’s issues. In the spirit of “cross-systems” work we were pleased to have representatives from many diverse areas of government participate with us.
Also new this year was a 400+ page compendium of workshop handouts. A conference CD, includ-ing the handouts and supplementary information, was also provided to participants. This conference would not be possible without the enthusiastic support of our many sponsors and vendors. I offer a special thanks to them for their contributions. Please be sure to support the conference sponsors, when you can. They make it possible to provide the excellent programming and materials.
George J. Kimes, Executive [email protected]
Mark Your Calendars!october 6 – 8, 2008
We have moved next year’s con-ference to a Monday-Wednesday schedule, rather than our tra-ditional Tuesday to Friday time frame to avoid a conflict with the Jewish holiday of Yom Kippur.
This column represents my opinion, not
necessarily that of the association.
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 4 November 2007
UNITING… Continued from page 1
In recognition of her tireless work, passionate commitment, and visionary lead-ership in transforming the behavioral health system of care, Pat valentine, Allegheny County director of behavioral health services, was honored with the 2007 President’s Award. Valentine models integrity, drives large-scale system change, and shares her passion for recovery and resiliency. Her vision of a transformed system for children, families, and adults affected by mental illness, substance use, and addictions is inspiring. Valentine’s leadership has resulted in creation of a sophisticated model of forensic services. In the children’s arena she led the development of community-based services driven and utilized by parents and in the adult mental health system she has championed change to accelerate the adoption of recovery and resiliency practices.
Sen. Patricia H. vance, chair of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee and vice chair of the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, is the recipient of the Raymond R. Webb, Jr. Government Relations Award. Vance is a professional nurse by trade and mentioned this in her acceptance remarks — acknowledging that “…we have served many of the same people…” and “…I understand and respect your issues.” Vance authored PCPA’s dedicated alcohol tax legislation, which was Senate Bill 727 last session and is now Senate Bill 870. PCPA thanks Vance for her introduction of the initiative and for availing the association of the knowl-edge and expertise of Mark Ryan, her chief of staff. Vance and her staff worked to bring PCPA’s “idea” of the dedicated alcohol tax to a “reality” on paper, culmi-nating in her prime sponsorship with Sen. Jay Costa, Jr. and companion legisla-tion introduced in the House chamber.
The 2007 Marilyn Mennis Memorial Award was presented to Dr. Stan mrozowski in recognition of his dedication, leadership, and advocacy on behalf of Pennsylvania’s children and their families. For nearly two decades Mrozowski served as a county mental health and mental retardation administrator. As pres-ident of the association of county MH/MR administrators he worked to facilitate greater collaboration between counties and community providers. As Children’s Policy Specialist at PCPA he organized the Children’s Search Conference in 2002,
which became a seminal event in the transformation of the children’s behavioral health system and the model for collaboration between systems, families, and government in Pennsylvania. As the director of the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Children’s Bureau, Mrozowski continues to champion transformation in this era of recovery and resiliency.
PCPA is proud of the opportunity to spotlight the work and efforts of these individuals who continue to provide leadership to assure that people in need receive treatment and have the opportunity for recovery and healthy lives. f
valentine, vance, and mrozowski Honored by Association
Pat Valentine accepts the 2007 PCPA President’s Award.
Alan Hartl, LAC co-chair, presents Sen. Pat Vance with the Raymond R. Webb, Jr. Government Relations Award.
Glynn Chase and Pete Rubel, Children’s Committee co-chairs, present Dr. Stan Mrozowski (c) with the Marilyn Mennis Memorial Award.
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 5 F
Conference Hosts First Children’s Policy makers roundtableThe 2007 conference featured the first State Policy makers round Table. Leadership from the child serving program offices and bureaus of the state’s departments of Public Welfare, Education, and Health reviewed initiatives impacting service providers. Attendance approached standing room only as par-ticipants heard from policy leaders and from the newly appointed executive director of the Governor’s Commission on Children and Families. f
PCPA Thanks exhibitors and SponsorsA heartfelt thanks is extended from the Conference Committee to vendors in Exhibit Hall. In record attendance, PCPA hosted 72 exhibit booths with exhibitors providing a variety of resources for guests as they go about the business of serving the citizens of Pennsylvania. Vendors also offered more than 40 drawings for gift baskets and other prizes during the course of the conference.
The PCPA conference would not be as successful or affordable for guests without the support of organiza-tions who serve as event sponsors. These groups provide additional funds to assist in covering the costs of such things as audiovisual equipment, speaker expenses and travel requirements, receptions and other meal events, and prize giveaways. PCPA and the Conference
Thank You…Committee extend their deepest thanks to the follow-ing companies for their generous support of the 2007 event:
E The Phillips Group — Workshop Compendium and CDE Community behavioral HealthCare Network of
Pennsylvania — Networking ReceptionE Community Care behavioral Health organization —
Welcome Reception, State of the State PlenaryE magellan behavioral Health — Tuesday Attendee GiftsE elwyn, Inc. — Keynote AddressE Community Services Group — Ice Cream BreakE brown & brown Insurance — Conference TotesE Pressley ridge — Cyber CaféE esteam — Cyber CaféE CiviGenics, Inc. — Grand Prize GiveawayE Staffing Plus, Inc. — Coffee BreakE Askesis Development Group — Coffee Break. f
The 2007 PCPA Training & Conference Committee. Front (l to r): Gena Diefenderfer, Richard Lewis, Pete Rubel, Linda Texter, Denise Macerelli, Donna McNelis, Lindy Coder, and Sarah Eyster. Center: Curtis Upsher, Jr., and Kris Ericson. Standing (l to r): Al Nesbitt, Melissa Jones, Mike Hanawalt, Lynn Cooper, Tom Scranton, Bob Vincenti, Jr., and Don Stiffler. The association extends its thanks to the committee for their planning and execution of a successful 35th anniversary conference!
more CoNFereNCe NewS oN PAGeS 9 AND 10!
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 6 November 2007
Long Term Living Focus of board meetingPCPA is pleased to announce that Mike Hall, deputy secretary for the Office of Long Term Living, will be the guest speaker at the November Board of Directors meeting. PCPA Executive Director George Kimes reported he was pleased to have Hall speak. “As the definition of long-term care changes from a simple focus on nursing home services to include a broader array of community based services, it is important for our members to see the challenges and opportuni-ties in serving the aging popula-tion.” Kimes continued, “Deputy Secretary Hall has already dem-onstrated a strong awareness of the need to provide relevant and meaningful behavioral health ser-vices if we are going to help people live as independently as possible.”
Hall was appointed deputy secre-tary in March. The Office of Long Term Living is a joint deputate that spans the Departments of Aging and Public Welfare and is charged with oversights of the program, policy, and fiscal opera-tions of long-term living in both agencies. All PCPA members are welcome to attend the board meeting and to hear Hall’s views on long-term care. f
Pharmacotherapy work Group meetsGlen Cooper, New Directions, and Douglas Ockrymiek, Community Behavioral HealthCare Network of Pennsylvania, co-chaired the first PCPA Pharmacotherapy Work Group meeting October 2. The work group discussed medication assisted treatment, identified barriers, and began to look at a number of recommendations. The results of the recent survey were shared and discussed. Access problems were high-lighted the breakdown in linkages that often exists. Several examples were shared such as community hospitals referring clients to a pro-vider with only two weeks of medications and the client unable to get an appointment with the psychiatrist for six weeks. This breakdown results in a four week gap in medication. Other examples included clients coming out of prisons/jails and residential facilities without appropriate medication and the high cost and heavy regulation of some medications such as Buprenorphine.
The group discussed formulary limitations and questioned whether all MCOs should have the same formulary or perhaps core medica-tions should be on all formularies. Prior authorizations, fail first requirements, the impact of Medicare Part D, injectable medications, titrating-moving clients from one medication to another, the absence of clinical best practice procedures, and the problems created when clients switch plans were also reviewed.
A significant concern highlighted is the requirement that residential programs pay for physical health medications. This situation is becom-ing increasingly difficult. The related problem of the drug and alcohol treatment provider being prohibited from offering physical health ser-vices (such as treatment for hepatitis) and being required to send the client to a primary care provider was also discussed. The end result is the client not getting needed health care.
Other topics included the need for some kind of central credentialing instead of individual MCO processes, universal forms to streamline ser-vices, standards for pharmacotherapy best practice should be shared, regulatory requirements perceived to be prohibitive in providing needed medication, and the bundled rate for methadone programs and the potential problems that could arise such as reducing the incentive to do counseling.
The work group will divide issues into several categories; doable, sig-nificant work needed, and things that appear unfixable. All work group members will provide a short list of priorities and recommendations. It was clear that the work group will need to get accurate data regarding the medications that are currently being provided, medications that should be available, and up and coming medications. The Pennsylvania Health Law Project will be included in future meetings. The next meet-ing is November 5. All interested members are encouraged to attend. Questions should be directed to Lynn Cooper. f
E P C P A N e w S
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 7 F
rate Setting Paper Final: Presentations Planned
The PCPA Rate Setting Paper is final and next steps include presen-tations to state officials and others. The Rate Setting Work Group, chaired by Jonathon Wolf, Pyramid Healthcare, has been meeting since early spring. The work group continues to organize a rate set-ting guide for members. Expectations are that it will be complete in January 2008. The primary purpose of the paper is to assist in advocacy efforts for a fair rate setting process for community providers. PCPA members believe that the commonwealth’s commit-ment to clients, quality service, and access to care is threatened by the lack of a meaningful fair rate setting process. The paper emphasizes that the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) must ensure that routine, periodic, and fair consideration of rates for services funded by DPW is given. This includes rates set directly by DPW and those established by intermediaries, including counties and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs).
Services offered by community providers save taxpayer dollars compared to more costly alternatives such as hospital/inpatient and emergency room care or state centers. Community providers offer the least restrictive services which allow for a life in the community. These services often save lives, keep families together, and give the individual an opportunity to enjoy educational success and gainful employment.
Community providers have worked to operate efficiently and within the constraints of budgeting limitations. The consequences of these financial limitations, including lack of rate increases, have caused financial strain on the provider system. Providers lose quality staff because of an inability to maintain salaries at com-petitive levels. Providers are not able to reinvest in physical plant maintenance and improvements, information technology, training, and other long-term needs to strengthen resources available for client care and are prevented from investing in new services and upgraded capabilities. The lack of a rate setting process threatens the entire provider network, limiting choice for consumers.
The paper also emphasizes that the process must involve the MCO, the oversight body for the risk group, and the county administrator from the county of residence of the service provider. For the men-tal retardation system, the Office of Developmental Programs must establish an annual rate setting process that takes into consider-ation provider costs and allows for annual increases. In short, DPW must ensure that all rates for services, whether set by the depart-ment or intermediaries, are subject to a routine, fair, and sound process. A copy of the paper is available on the PCPA web site. f
PCPA Central region
meetingDecember 10
9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. PCPA Office, Harrisburg
The topic is autism services and will include presentations by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Autism Services, Keystone Human Services, and Youth Advocate Programs. f
PCPA Announces New endorsed vendoreSSeNTIAL LeArNING, a web-based e-learning company, has joined PCPA as an endorsed vendor. Essential Learning provides a learn-ing management system designed to meet the needs of organizations that provide behavioral health, developmental disability, substance abuse, and child welfare services.
In past surveys, members have expressed interest in receiving training without taking time from the office. It is for this reason that PCPA endorses online learning ven-dors. Online learning can reduce training costs, improve training effectiveness and consistency, ensure regulatory compliance, and reduce time spent on employee orientation. PCPA members inter-ested in Essential Learning should visit www.essentiallearning.com. As a part of the endorsement con-tract, Essential Learning is offer-ing PCPA members ten percent off of the subscription fee. Members interested in this or other endorsed vendors should contact Membership and Marketing Coordinator Steve Neidlinger ([email protected] or 717-364-3280). f
E P C P A N e w S
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 8 November 2007
National Council Seeks Award NominationsThe National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare is accepting submissions for its 2008 Awards of Excellence program beginning November 5. Deadline for entries is January 4, 2008. Submissions are open to National Council member organizations only.
The Awards of Excellence program is a great opportunity for community-based provider organizations and individuals that have significantly contributed to the mental health and addictions service industry and improved the lives of those in need of treatment and support, to earn national recognition and honor.
The 2008 Awards of Excellence will be presented on May 2, 2008 at the Kennedy Library in Boston. The honorary event chair is Christopher Kennedy Lawford, nephew of President John F. Kennedy. The Awards Dinner is held in conjunction with the National Council 38th Annual Conference, May 1 – 3, 2008, in Boston.
Awards of Excellence will be presented in the following categories:
E Excellence in Innovation
E Excellence in Community Collaboration
E Excellence in Consumer and Family Advocacy
E Excellence in Grassroots Advocacy
E Lifetime Achievement: Staff Leadership and Volunteer Leadership
E Excellence in Mental Health and Addictions Education, and
E Excellence in Public Service.
Instructions on submitting nominations online will be available November 5. In the meantime, individuals may start preparing submissions by visiting the web site at www.thenationalcouncil.org/cs/2008_overview to review the general guidelines and descriptions and criteria for each award. Questions may be directed to [email protected] or 301-984-6200, x223. f
Conser Named omHSAS executive AssistantBeginning November 5, Ms. Lu Conser will begin as executive assistant to Deputy Secretary Joan Erney, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Conser previously served as PCPA’s Legislative Affairs Director and, most recently, worked at the Carlisle Area Health and Wellness Foundation. PCPA extends sincere congratulations to Ms. Conser and looks forward to working with her in her new capacity. f
E P C P A N e w S
May you be a learner.
May you learn to pursue
your idealism with intensity,
without having all your ducks
in a row, with whole-hearted
commitment. May you
learn to be surprised, and
disheartened, and deepened.
May you learn to see what
is familiar in the foreign and
what is foreign in the familiar.
May you be a learner, so you
may be a teacher for others. – Wendell Berry
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 9 F
E 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 the PA Community Providers Association office at 717-364-3280 or [email protected]. 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.
PCPA Convenes Annual Legislative Forum In celebration of the association’s 35th anniversary the legislative forum welcomed Pete DeCoursey, bureau chief at Capitolwire.com, as the mod-erator. DeCoursey has been a frequent guest speaker to PCPA’s Legislative Affairs Committee and Government Relations Institute (GRI©). The insights and comments he added to the forum were both beneficial and entertaining to the audience.
The inclusion of DeCoursey also displayed PCPA success in educating members of the media to issues of the mental health/mental retardation/drug and alcohol (MH/MR/D&A) system. By DeCoursey’s own admission, he has learned more about the system and its issues during the past several years thanks in large part to PCPA and its membership. However, he reminded the audience that much work in public relations regarding these issues remains.
DeCoursey also commented that PCPA had convened a remarkable legisla-tive panel for the forum, which included:
E Sen. Patricia H. vance (R-Cumberland/York), chair of the Senate Aging and Youth Committee and vice chair of the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee;
E Sen. Jay Costa, Jr. (D-Allegheny), Senate Minority Caucus chairman and member of the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee and Legislative Budget and Finance Committee;
E rep. Kathy manderino (D-Philadelphia), member of the House Health and Human Services Committee and chair of the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Health and Human Services; and
E rep. mark Longietti (D-Mercer), bringing a freshman legislator perspective to the panel.
Unfortunately, invited House Republican members were unable to attend due to scheduling conflicts.
Topics covered by the panel included long-term, stable system fund-ing such as the dedicated alcohol tax for D&A and parlaying the suc-cess (yet ultimate gubernatorial veto) of last session’s House Bill 1813 into increased funding for MH/MR; how the governor’s Prescription for Pennsylvania may/not affect and/or include behavioral health; and the administration’s application of the 2007/08 cost-of-living adjustment for the system. PCPA and the Legislative Affairs Committee extend their thanks to all participants. f
GrI Alumni Network AppreciationThe network would like to thank the following organizations and individuals who donated an item to the 2007 PAC auction:
E Allegheny East MH/MRE Barber National InstituteE Chestnut Ridge Counseling
Services, Inc.E Community Services GroupE CBHNPE Delta-TE Elwyn, Inc.E Family Services of Western PAE George KimesE Lenape Valley FoundationE Safe Harbor Behavioral HealthE Tadiso, Inc.E David and Cathy WebsterE Wesley Spectrum Services, andE Western Psychiatric Institute
and Clinic.
The network also thanks all the teams who participated in the bowling tournament and the numerous individuals that are sup-porting them with PAC donations. Congratulations to Lenape Valley Foundation, winner of the 2007 tournament! Finally, the network extends a special thanks to its conference sponsor This end Up Furniture Co., Inc. — and espe-cially to Fabio Ruberto. f
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 10 November 2007
E L eG I SL AT I v e A F FA Ir S
Prior to the legislative forum, PCPA was joined by the following legislative staffers:
E Nia wilson, majority legal counsel to the House Health and Human Services Committee;
E Janelle Lynch, minority executive director of the House Children and Youth Committee;
E bob Frymoyer, project manager, Legislative Budget and Finance Committee (LB&FC);
E ron Jumper, minority executive director of the Senate Judiciary Committee and chief of staff to Sen. Jay Costa, Jr.; and
E mark ryan, chief of staff to Sen. Patricia H. Vance.
PAC Fundraising SuccessThe Pennsylvania Community Providers Political Action Committee (PCP PAC) is poised to achieve its 2007 conference fundraising goal of $6,000. If only the minimum fee is received by each of the participating teams in the GRI Alumni Network Bowling Tournament, the total raised at the conference will exceed $5,500. In addition to the bowling tournament, funds were realized from the Silent Auction, Silent Scramble, and PACPot initiatives.
Alan J. Hartl, PAC chair and Legislative Affairs Committee (LAC) co-chair, extends a special thanks to members of the LAC and network for their hard work and dedication to the planning and implementation of these activities. Special thanks go to Jonathan Evans, LAC co-chair; Lisa Basci, network co-chair; Julie Sorrentino Kresge, network co-chair; Anne Bell; Phil Braun; Kristina DelPrincipe; Sarah Eyster; Rhonda Kutzik; Denise Macerelli; Tamara Marsico; Jen McLaughlin; Christine Michaels; and David Webster. f
Staff fielded a variety of questions from Pete DeCoursey, the session’s moderator, including such topics as current and upcoming state budgets, the 2006 LB&FC report on the state of children’s men-tal health, and how the governor’s Prescription for Pennsylvania may/not affect behavioral health. As more evidence of the changes that have occurred — and continue to occur — as a result of the November 2006 election, several of the staff included on the panel are fairly new to their posi-tions. Wilson shared that she has returned to the House Health and Human Services Committee fol-lowing a six-year absence while Lynch, new to the House Children and Youth Committee, has very recently taken on children’s mental health. Special thanks from PCPA and the Legislative Affairs Committee to all the panel participants for present-ing at the conference! f
Legislative Staff Join Conference
Jen McLaughlin (l) points out the features of a silent auction item to Mary Chancellor during bidding in Exhibit Hall.
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 11 F
Is Your Legislator on the List?The primary PCPA legislative initiative for the 2007/08 session is to achieve passage of the dedicated alcohol tax (House Bill 1032/Senate Bill 870). While a number of legislators in both chambers have signed on as co-sponsors (69 in the House, 22 in the Senate), there are many that have not yet done so. PCPA has developed a list of legislators that have signed on this session, legislators that co-sponsored last session, and legislators newly elected this session. A copy of the list can be found on the PCPA web site for reference.
The Dedicated Alcohol Tax Initiative/Drug and Alcohol Treatment and Prevention Fund legislation seeks to have the existing tax on wine and spirits, often referred to as the Johnstown Flood Tax or The Emergency Tax, redirected and dedicated to fund existing drug and alcohol treatment services. The current tax is 18 per-cent and generates over $200 million annually. Some opponents have discussed the commonwealth eliminating the tax or dedi-cating it to other purposes. PCPA and supporters believe this tax should be dedicated to existing state-funded drug and alcohol treatment services and provide much needed new funding for services. The plan is revenue neutral in the first year and could generate as much as $10 million annually in subsequent years. It is critical that another year not go by before passing this legisla-tion. If the initiative had passed when initially proposed three years ago, in addition to having more secure line items it would have generated an estimated $30+ million in new/additional funds for drug and alcohol treatment services.
Your assistance is needed NOW to do several things:
Contact your 1. senator and ask him/her to write letters to Sen. Edwin “Ted” Erickson, majority chair of the Public Health and Welfare Committee, requesting that the commit-tee move Senate Bill 870. It is especially important to get co-sponsors to write to Sen. Erickson.
If your legislator has already signed on to co-sponsor, 2. call and thank him/her. Let him/her know that we need continued support and the support of his/her colleagues.
If your legislator has not yet signed on to co-sponsor, please 3. contact him/her and ask for support. Then contact friends and colleagues and ask them to send a message to their legislators requesting the same support.
Information packets are available at PCPA which include the Dedicated Alcohol Tax Initiative Position Paper, copies of the bills, a list of frequently asked questions, and other resources. Contact Lynn Cooper with questions or requests for materials. f
P4P Initiative PlannedThe Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) is developing a pay-for-performance (P4P) initiative to be implemented January 1, 2008 in the southeast, southwest, and Lehigh/Capitol HealthChoices zones. According to information provided at the September Medical Assistance Advisory Committee, four core indicators will be used. The indicators are follow-up after psychiatric hospitalization at seven days for ages 6–20 and 21–64 and at 30 days for ages 6–20 and 21–64. County-specific goals will be determined for each of the indica-tors. The total available financial incentive will be 0.5 percent of the cap in each zone and will be allocated proportionate to each primary contractor’s HealthChoices membership. Each primary contrac-tor’s maximum possible payment is weighted at 30 percent each for the seven-day follow-up indicators and 20 percent each for the 30-day indicators. Additional developmen-tal indicators under consideration for pilots during the P4P initia-tive’s first year include admis-sions screening for co-occurring disorders and residential treatment facility utilization. A steering com-mittee will be convened to help to oversee the development of the P4P initiative and to assist with the development of the methodology for new performance indicators. The first meeting of the task force will occur in November. PCPA is repre-sented on the steering committee. Please contact Betty Simmonds ([email protected]) with questions about this initiative. f
E m e N TA L H e A LT H H e A D L I N e S
E L eG I SL AT I v e A F FA Ir S
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 12 November 2007
National Council Conference Headed for bostonby Susan Blue
Having just returned from the PCPA conference in Seven Springs, I am again reminded of the importance of networking with colleagues. As important as educational opportunities are, equally important were the chances I had to loosely “talk shop” with my peers. Often, the best education was the con-versation that happened between workshops.
PCPA’s federal counterpart, the National Council for Community Behavioral Healthcare (NCCBH), presents community providers with another opportu-nity to learn more about our chosen profession. The 38th NCCBH conference is May 1-3, 2008 in Boston. Attendees will learn from innovative, cutting-edge thinkers, be inspired by world-renowned speakers, and connect with colleagues from around the globe. The chance to spend time in one of America’s most picturesque cities in the springtime will only make the experience more enjoyable.
PCPA’s contractual arrangement with NCCBH allows members to enjoy the benefits of NCCBH membership for a fraction of the regular dues. The con-ference is one of those benefits, with a $200 savings for member agencies. Membership in NCCBH also provides agencies with up-to-date federal regula-tory information and advocacy, along with other varied benefits that make your agency more informed and effective.
I encourage you to attend the conference in Boston and to join NCCBH through your membership in PCPA if you have not done so already. Conferences like those offered by PCPA and NCCBH provide great problem-solving opportunities for those willing to see beyond what is and into what could be. I recommend that you take advantage of these opportunities.
PCPA members interested in NCCBH membership can contact PCPA Membership and Marketing Coordinator Steve Neidlinger, at 717-364-3280 or steve@ paproviders.org. f
E A C r o S S T H e N AT I o N
Federal employment InitiativesThe US Department of Labor Office of Disability Employment Policy has awarded a two-year agreement for $1.8 million to the Institute for Educational Leadership, Center for Workforce Development, to establish a National Technical Assistance Center on Transition and Employment for Youth with Disabilities. The purpose is to build the capac-ity of workforce development, economic development, and educational service delivery systems to ensure that youth with disabilities graduate from high school and either enter employment or continue their education. The press release is available at www.dol.gov.
The National Council on Disability has submitted a congressionally mandated report to President Bush, Empowerment of Americans with Disabilities: Breaking Barriers to Careers and Full Employment. The report’s purpose is to sum-marize existing knowledge regarding the employment of people with disabilities and to present new information on the perspectives of employ-ers, individuals, and disability specialists on the barriers to employment.
A copy of the report is avail-able at www.ncd.gov. f
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 13 F
Tamper-resistant Prescriptions DelayedOn September 29 President Bush signed a bill that delays implemen-tation of requirements for tamper-resistant prescription pads from October 1 to April 1, 2008. An article in the October Provider News provides information about the requirements for tamper-resistant prescription pads for handwritten Medical Assistance prescriptions. The Department of Public Welfare issued a Provider Quick Tip (www.dpw.state.pa.us/omap/promise/PDF/PROMISeQuickTip52.pdf) to alert providers of the change in implementation date. Contact Betty Simmonds ([email protected]) with questions. f
workforce Development ContinuesThe National Direct Service Workforce (DSW) Resource Center provides easy access to information and resources to support efforts to improve recruitment and retention of direct service workers for individuals with disabilities and seniors. The center is funded by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) with information available at www.dswresourcecenter.org.
Through the center CMS funded five states in 2006 to receive indi-vidualized intensive technical assistance. The states were Arizona, Louisiana, New York, South Carolina, and Texas. The technical assis-tance was to help states develop and implement initiatives that strengthen the workforce that supports individuals with disabilities in home and community-based settings. State Medicaid agencies were targeted because of their key role in quality assurance, worker educa-tion, and provider reimbursement.
In 2007 five additional states were funded: Georgia, New Jersey, North Carolina, Utah, and Wisconsin. Georgia will focus on a study to align their direct support professional certificate program with proposed national standards. New Jersey is designing a career path and assist-ing state and provider agencies with locating sources of funding to implement and support this initiative. North Carolina is developing a cross-population, cross-divisional, statewide stakeholder group to focus on identifying the gaps, needs, and trends, as well as determin-ing core competencies for training and evidence-based practices to support frontline workers. Utah will expand initiatives on their work-force augmentation and integration taskforce including development of web-based training, market studies on wages, and market factors affecting compensation. Wisconsin will develop a methodology for projecting the demand for direct care workers, develop training mate-rials for self-directed consumers and workers, and support web-based training of the College of Direct Supports. Details are available on the DSW web site, Winter 2007 newsletter. f
E ACro S S T He NAT IoN
College Cost reduction and Access Act SignedOn September 27 President
Bush signed into law HR
2669 which became Public
Law 110-84, “College Cost
Reduction and Access Act.”
Several provisions encour-
age professionals to work in
the disability field including
TEACH grants that provide
up to $4,000 yearly (for a
total of $16,000) to pay
college tuition for those
planning to become
teachers in high shortage
fields such as special educa-
tion and student loan
forgiveness options offered
to those entering public
service, including the field
of disabilities and non-profit
organizations. f
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 14 November 2007
NPI UpdateBeginning January 1, 2008, all Medicare Fee-for-Service claims must include the National Provider Identifier (NPI) in the primary fields. Both the NPI and legacy number can be included. Claims using only the legacy number will not be processed and will be returned. The legacy number alone may be used for secondary fields on claims. Medicare suggests that if providers are successfully billing using both the NPI and legacy number together, they should submit some claims using only the NPI to test the system. MLN Matters (MM5452) provides guidance on NPI implementation and remittance advice trans-actions (www.cms.hhs.gov/MLNMattersArticles/downloads/MM5452.pdf).
Effective October 29 Highmark Medicare Services Part B will begin editing NPI/legacy combina-tions for validity against the NPI crosswalk file for Medicare Part B claims submitted on paper or electronically. If the numbers do not match, claims will be rejected or returned. Providers should verify that the correct NPI was submit-ted. Providers may also verify that the correct information is on file with the National Plan and Provider Enumeration System (NPPES) and
The University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC) National Research and Training Center is conducting an online survey regarding cul-tural competence in consumer-run programs. (See July Provider News for more information.) This sur-vey, supported by a grant from the Center for Mental Health Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, focuses on how consumer-run programs meet the needs of culturally diverse peo-ple. UIC hopes to learn what peer programs do well and where they
struggle in helping people from cul-turally diverse communities and are particularly interested in hearing from individuals from the African American, Latino, Asian, Native American, and other diverse com-munities. The results of this sur-vey will be used to develop a tool that consumer-run mental health programs can use to help them bet-ter address the needs of culturally diverse members. This tool is being developed with the STAR Center of the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
The survey takes 10 – 20 minutes to complete. It is anonymous and available in both English and Spanish. Any individual aged 18 or older who has had mental health or emotional problems is eligible to complete the survey. Visit www.cmhsrp.uic.edu/nrtc/survey.asp to learn more about and complete the survey. UIC requests that the survey be made available to others who may want to share their opin-ions. The survey will be available through April 30, 2008. f
Cultural Competency of Peer Programs being Surveyed
make changes as appropriate. A small number of claims with the corrected information can then be submitted. If the NPPES information is correct and all legacy identifiers and NPIs match but the claim still rejects, a Medicare enrollment applica-tion (CMS-855) may be needed.
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently issued a document to assist physician and non-physician practitioners with complet-ing the Medicare Provider Enrollment Application (www.cms.hhs.gov/Medicareprovidersupenroll/Downloads/EnrollmentNPI.pdf). The NPI must be included on the enrollment application. Also effective January 1, new healthcare providers that request Medical Assistance enrollment must include NPI information, including the tax-onomy code(s), NPI number, and the nine-digit zip code. PROMISe provider enrollment informa-tion and applications are available through www.dpw.state.pa.us/omap/promise/enroll/omappromiseenroll.asp. Weekly Medical Assistance NPI registration statistics updates continue to indicate a lag in behavioral health provider registrations. f
E ACro S S T He NAT IoN
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 15 F
bulletin outlines Use of SCA AssessmentThe Bureau of Drug & Alcohol Programs (BDAP) sent the following informa-tion in a recent bulletin announcing that drug and alcohol treatment pro-viders could use the Single County Authority (SCA) assessments as a basis for developing client psychosocial histories.
Pursuant to 4 Pa. Code § 257.4, an SCA is required to develop a comprehen-sive confidential history, including significant medical, social, occupational and family information. While SCAs are not licensed, they are mandated under this separate regulation to perform functions related to intake, evalu-ation, and referral. Consequently, they perform similar tasks as licensed intake, evaluation, and referral providers. Previously it was generally accepted that licensed treatment providers could only use the assessment from another licensed treatment provider as the basis for developing a cli-ent’s psychosocial history.
The Department of Health announced that, effective immediately, with appropriate client consent, licensed drug and alcohol (D&A) treatment providers may use an SCA’s D&A assessment as the basis for developing a client’s psychosocial history. The department recognizes that the SCA assessment may provide the framework for the required assessment; how-ever, it may not meet all of the regulatory requirements for a psychosocial history. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the licensed facility to ensure that it is in compliance with the corresponding requirements at 28 Pa. Code.
In addition, the following conditions must be satisfied in order for the SCA psychosocial history to be utilized:
E The psychosocial history must have been developed within the last six months;
E The psychosocial history, with the client’s informed written consent, must have been obtained AT or BEFORE the client’s admission from the referring SCA; and,
E Upon receipt of the psychosocial history, the receiving project/facility must review it for completeness and accuracy with the client and docu-ment such review by dated signature of both the facility staff conduct-ing the review and the client.
If the psychosocial history is incomplete, the receiving project/facility is responsible for further development of the historical data. The receiving project/facility is then responsible for the development of the psychosocial evaluation, treatment plans, and all other components of the clinical record.
The use of this assessment document is voluntary and at the discretion of the treatment provider. D&A treatment providers are not required to use the SCA’s D&A assessment. f
omHSAS Helps with expedited enrollmentA number of PCPA members have reported delays in HealthChoices enrollment of four to eight weeks. The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) has been working with the Office of Medical Assistance Programs to improve expedited enroll-ment. However, recent reports have indicated that expedited enrollment is not happening in some counties. Delayed enrollment means delays in authorization and service. These delays are costing the client, the commonwealth, and the service delivery system.
Joan Erney, OMHSAS deputy secretary recently shared the CAO MA Ombudsman Contact List (contact Lynn Cooper at PCPA for a copy). This list can help providers as they work to speed up enrollment of clients. All members experi-encing delays in enrollment are asked to contact the appropriate ombudsman and request help in expediting enrollment. Erney has asked that she be kept apprised of communications/problems as they occur. She will soon be presenting at the ombudsman meeting in an effort to out-line the problems and request assistance. PCPA extends spe-cial thanks to Erney for her leadership and assistance. f
E D & A A C T I o N
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 16 November 2007
E m e N T A L r e T A r D A T I o N r e P o r T
oDP Staff Changes The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has made several staffing and organizational changes. There will no longer be east and west regional directors. Patty McCool from the cen-tral office will be supervising all regions. Sandy Schalcosky is the western regional program manager located in Pittsburgh. Regions will be contracting for fiscal leaders and risk man-agement staff in the near future. ODP will be advertising for a quality improvement staff position. f
SIS vendor SelectedThe Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has selected Ascend Management Innovations d/b/a Dual Diagnosis Management (DDM) from Nashville, TN as the state’s vendor for the administration of the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) assessment and PA Plus for waiver participants. DDM will have an office in Pennsylvania and anticipates a January 1, 2008 start date. Until that time, ODP will have its regional offices conducting SIS evaluations. A draft SIS bulletin and manual will be available for public comment in the next few weeks. f
oDP rate SettingThe Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has devel-oped a number of revisions to the FY 2008/09 rate setting spreadsheets. These revisions, county and provider testing, and final revisions will be completed in October, with ODP approval anticipated in early November. Comments may be submitted at any time to [email protected]. For a copy of the planned revisions contact Linda Drummond ([email protected]). f
Im4Q Committee meetsThe Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Independent Monitoring for Quality (IM4Q) Advisory Committee recently addressed issues such as trainings needed for new county and monitoring program staff, inconsistency in information disseminated and received, and the possibility of an ODP mailbox to help address questions. Some of the confusion and inconsistency occurs from questions asked and both consum-ers and monitors unsure of the question’s purpose. Discussion focused on the need to resolve inconsistencies since ODP’s Provider Profile Committee is ascertaining the possible use of IM4Q data in the second phase of its initiative. f
HCSIS Updates ContinueRecent updates to HCSIS include adding informa-tion in the data warehouse regarding providers con-tracted rates and service utilization information for the past five years. Counties and the state can use this information to complete trend analysis by provider or service and to analyze rates for services. There are close to 60,000 rates for the Office of Developmental Programs over these years. In October the Autism Capitated Assistance program func-tionality was added. This information will assist in the Individual Support Plan (ISP) modules.
All 48 counties and joinders began using the financial management functionality in HCSIS July 1. Data shows that 75 percent of counties show utilization in HCSIS, with providers submit-ting claims to PROMISe and PROMISe updating HCSIS.
Providers have access to ISPs in HCSIS if they have at least one service on the ISP, the support team and individual have given permission to allow the provider to view the ISP online, the supports coordinator has checked the correct on screen box, and the provider has been assigned the Provider ISP Reviewer role in HCSIS. Also providers may view their ser-vice authorization notices in HCSIS. f
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 17 F
E m r r e P o r T
HCbS recipients Live at HomeA recent study published in
Intellectual Disabilities (October
2007: Vol. 45, No. 5) indicates
the number of individuals with
intellectual disabilities living
at home has increased greatly
over the last seven years. The
flexibility offered by Medicaid-
funded Home and Community
Based Services (HCBS) is one
resource that has led to the
increased use of family living.
The study, “HCBS Recipients
Are Increasingly Likely to Live
with Parent or Other Relatives,”
indicates that in 1999 82,264
individuals receiving HCBS were
living in the same home as
other family members. By 2006
the numbers had increased to
224,264. Pennsylvania statis-
tics for 2006 show 13,807 HCBS
waiver recipients living with
family, which is 53 percent of
those receiving waiver funding.
The article is available at www.
aaidd.org/Reading_Room/pdf/
HCBSoct07IDD.pdf. f
Substitute Health Care Decision makingAct 169 of 2006 on advanced medical decision making procedures has become an issue for community residential providers due to the appar-ent conflict between this new law and the Mental Health and Mental Retardation (MH/MR) Act of 1966. The 1966 act says the facility director may become a substitute decision maker under certain conditions, but the new law does not include this as an option in the list of priorities for health care representative selection. The state-level provider associations, includ-ing PCPA and the Disability Rights Network, are working with the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) administrative, legal, and medical compo-nents to develop a bulletin which resolves this conflict and provides clarity on the legality of the MH/MR Act of 1966 allowing the facility director to become a substitute health care decision maker.
Substitute Decision Making for Medical Treatment (#00-98-08) provides infor-mation on circumstances in which substitute decision making is allowable for persons with mental retardation in community residential programs and believed incapable of providing informed consent. This decision making pertains only to medical treatment decisions. When authorized substitute decision making is required, it is generally accepted that consent may be provided by a relative or legal guardian. Persons living in community resi-dential programs may not be able to provide informed consent and may not have another family member or guardian to provide consent on their behalf. If this situation exists the facility director may provide substitute consent for the individuals. The facility director is the chief executive officer of the organization. This understanding of substitute decision making is provided for in the MH/MR Act of 1966, Section 4417(c).
Act 169 of 2006 amends Titles 18 and 20 of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, providing for the offense of neglect of care-dependent persons, liv-ing wills, and health care powers of attorney. This law provides for advance directive medical treatment decisions to be made for an adult patient through a variety of options. These include:
E A patient’s living will, which is executed by an individual of sound mind who is 18 or older or graduated from high school or has married;
E A health care power of attorney, where the patient appoints another to serve as a health-care agent and make health care deci-sions; and
E A health care representative either selected by the patient or by default based on a list of priorities (spouse, adult child, parent, adult sibling, adult grandchild, close friend).
The act provides that a living will or advance directive executed in another state is valid in Pennsylvania as long as the document meets requirements of Pennsylvania law. Section 5463 of Act 169 states that this law does not affect the requirements of other laws of the commonwealth regarding con-sent to observation, diagnosis, treatment, or hospitalization for a mental illness. f
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 18 November 2007
New Director Named for Governor’s CommissionSecretary of Public Welfare Estelle Richman announced the appointment of Ellen S. DiDomenico as director of the Governor’s Commission on Children and Families. Established in 2003, the commission works to improve the delivery of services to children by making such services more responsive, efficient, and effective. In her role as director DiDomenico will work with advocates and community organizations to better coordinate and stream-line services. DiDomenico has spent a majority of her career working with human services organizations. She most recently served as the human ser-vices director for Lycoming and Clinton counties, where she was responsible for providing direct services and administration in county programs includ-ing child welfare, mental health, mental retardation, and substance abuse. DiDomenico attended the PCPA conference at the Children’s Policy Makers Round Table. f
Children’s Committee Focused on Provider/ mCo CollaborationsThe November meeting of the Children’s Committee will include two presen-tations by provider agencies and regional behavioral health managed care organizations (MCOs). As the HealthChoices model matures in various areas of the state providers, along with their county and managed care counter-parts, have developed innovative and promising practices that reflect the systemic “win, win, win” vision of HealthChoices. The planned presenta-tions will be drawn from provider recommendations in the southeast and southwest regions where HealthChoices has resolved many of the implemen-tation challenges faced in other parts of the state. f
white Paper on Alternatives to residential TreatmentThe Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) engaged Mercer Government Human Services Consulting to review current issues related to Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTFs). Mercer was charged with analyzing residential services data and developing draft recommendations that promote home and community-based alternatives to residential treatment, with a particular emphasis on youth served through the juvenile justice system. This draft concept paper explores the issues, infrastructure, and practices that can lead to a community-based system of care that includes alternatives to PRTF use.
The complete text of the White Paper on Alternatives to Residential Treatment is available on the PCPA web site (www.paproviders.org). PCPA staff held an initial meeting with OMHSAS and Mercer staff regarding the draft. The association is interested in comments and reactions from PRTF providers and other community behavioral health providers. Please send comments to Connell O’Brien ([email protected]). f
E C H I L D r e N ’ S C o r N e r
early Childhood mental Health UpdatesAt the last meeting of the Early Childhood Mental Health Work Group Kelli Thompson, PA Keys, reviewed the positive impact of the state bud-get on early childhood services. This includes the expansion of the Infant/Toddler Mental Health Project’s consulta-tion services to all six regions of the state, with staff recruitment cur-rently underway. The work group urged that PCPA consider recom-mending to the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services that the state adopt the DC 0-3R diagnostic criteria manual as an adjunct to the DSM-IV-TR for establishing mental health service neces-sity for children ages 0 – 5 in Medicaid-funded programs. PCPA has also arranged to meet with the State Interagency Coordinating Council for Early Intervention to review the level of need, service delivery, and funding structures in early childhood mental health. f
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 19 F
E C H I L D r e N ’ S C o r N e r
Juvenile Justice Center of excellence PlannedThe Department of Public Welfare and the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) are collaborating to develop a center for advancing the proliferation of high quality and effective juvenile justice and delinquency prevention programs. Plans call for the center to be launched in 2008. The center will work to improve and promote Pennsylvania’s knowledge of effective juvenile justice and delinquency prevention programs and practices by advancing recognized standards of research for determining program effectiveness. Alan Tezak, a PCCD consultant, reviewed the plan with the Child and Adolescent Forensic Subcommittee during a recent meeting.
Goals of the center are to:
E Support the start-up and operation of prevention or interven-tion programs proven to be effective, and ensure evidence based Program models are implemented.
E Support local innovative intervention programs designed to achieve the goals of community protection, offender accountability, and competency development.
E Support providers and probation departments in documenting activities so that performance is tracked and outcomes reported in a standardized format to support research on effectiveness. f
oCYF works on mission, vision, GoalsOffice of Children, Youth and
Families (OCYF) leadership is
drafting a statement of the
vision, mission, guiding prin-
ciples, and goals for the office.
Deputy Secretary Richard Gold
invited stakeholders to review
and comment on this document.
Members interested in a copy of
the draft can contact Connell
O’Brien (connell@paproviders.
org). The current statement of
mission reads: “The Office of
Children, Youth and Families
(OCYF) will promote sound pub-
lic policy, model evidence and
outcomes based programs and
practices, and the critical capac-
ity building resources needed to
achieve positive outcomes for
children, youth and families.
OCYF will assist children, youth
and families to become self-
sufficient through the use of
high quality, child and family-
respectful and comprehensive
programs with the advice and
counsel of constituents and
advocates.” fAlan Tezak reviews Center for Excellence Plan with subcommittee.
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 20 November 2007
Autism Training Available onlineThe Office of Developmental Programs training “Autism 100: Parts 1 and 2” is available for viewing on www.odpconsulting.net. Open the left tab, “Streaming Events,” then access “8/29/07” and select “View.” Each section of the training is approximately one hour.
massachusetts Pilot ProgramThe Massachusetts’s Department of Mental Retardation and Office of Medicaid has initiated a three-year pilot program focused on expand-ing home and community-based services to children with autism and low-income families. Services are planned for 80 children and will include respite, home adaptations, habilitation, education, and vehicle modifications.
Health Insurance and AutismIn Micheletti v. State Health Benefits Commission (www.njcourtsonline.com) the New Jersey Supreme Court has ruled that the state workers’ health insurance plan must pay for applied behavior analysis and ver-bal behavior therapy as well as speech and occupational therapies for the son of a state employee. Additional information is available at the New Jersey Center for Outreach and Services for the Autism Community (www.njcosac.org), which is reviewing the ruling. f
E 0 N T H e A U T I S m S P e C T r U m
Kennedy Krieger expandsThe Kennedy Krieger Institute, in partnership with Montgomery County in Maryland, has opened a new school for students ages 10 – 21 with moderate to severe autism spectrum disorders and other devel-opmental disabilities. Recognized internationally for improving the lives of children with disabilities and injuries of the brain and spinal cord, Kennedy Krieger serves more than 13,000 individuals annu-ally through inpatient and outpatient clinics, home and community services, and school-based pro-grams. For additional information access www.kennedykrieger.org. f
November 2. Ethics Revisited. Eagleville Hospital. Eagleville, PA. For more information or to register con-tact Pennsylvania Certification Board (717-540-4455 or [email protected]).
November 2. Basics of Clinical Supervision. Gateway Rehabilitation Center. Aliquippa, PA. For more informa-tion or to register contact Pennsylvania Certification Board (717-540-4455 or [email protected]).
November 8 – 9. Overview of Substance Abuse. Comfort Inn. Harrisburg, PA. For more information or to register contact Pennsylvania Certification Board (717-540-4455 or [email protected]).
November 12. Ethics for Drug and Alcohol Professionals. Allegheny General Hospital. Pittsburgh, PA. For more information or to register contact Pennsylvania Certification Board (717-540-4455 or info@ pacertboard.org).
November 14 – 16. Which Way Out? The Sequential Intercept Model - A Framework for Decriminalizing Mental Illness. Station Square Sheraton Hotel. Pittsburgh, PA. For more information access The Center for Continuing Education in Health Sciences at https://ccehs.upmc.edu/courses/brochure_1236.pdf.
November 15 – 16. Co-Occurring Disorders. Eagleville Hospital. Eagleville, PA. For more information or to register contact Pennsylvania Certification Board (717-540-4455 or [email protected]). f
E C o N F e r e N C e S & T r A I N I N G S
P r o v I D e r N e w S November 2007 21 F
In September the mental retardation Committee included an update on relevant legislation with a request for member input; over-view of the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Provider Profile; discussion regarding Act 169 of 2006 and ODP’s substitute medical decision making bulletin issues needing resolution; and an update on individual program plan revisions to some regulations. Guests included MH/MR Program Administrators Association of Pennsylvania Executive Director Mike Chambers and Bureau of Quality Improvement Initiatives Specialists Dana Olsen and Rod Bullock. Chambers dialogued with the committee about statewide changes, rate setting, PROMISe bill-ing, fair hearing process, admin-istrative entities monitoring of providers, and processes for rapid resolution of emergency situations for consumers. ODP staff provided an overview of the department’s emphasis on Lifesharing and using the individual support plan pro-cess to budget for funding these services. Committee dialogue addressed the limited amount of the stipend creating a barrier to attracting Lifesharing families/ providers, need for additional funding for development of new services, and rapid-response procedures to cover consumer emergencies. PCPA thanks outgo-ing Committee Co-chairs Jan Noe, Penndel Mental Health Center, and Diane Len, FamilyLinks, and welcomes new Co-chairs Astrid Berry, NHS Human Services, and Deb Lawson, Community Guidance Center. f
E CommI T T e e r eP or T S
At the September mental Health Committee former Co-chairs Julie Weaver and Philip Braun were recognized for their service. Input from members on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed rehabilitative services regulations was requested. Bulletins related to criminal background check requirements for behavioral health services providers and Deficit Reduction Act requirements for employee education about fraud and abuse were distributed. Sabrina Tillman-Boyd, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS), provided an update on tamper-resistant prescription pad requirements, adult outpatient treatment in an alternative setting, the long term structured residence, and the need for comments on federal rehabilitative services proposed requirements. The need for comments on Medicare partial hospital-ization services rate and support for federal parity legislation was discussed. The rate negotiation position paper was distributed. John Ames, OMHSAS housing specialist, discussed inclusion of the housing first model in county plans. County plan guidelines require each county or joinder to submit a housing plan. Regional meetings and a one-day conference on conversion of community residential rehabilitation services to housing with services and use of reinvest-ment funds to leverage Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency funds are planned. A seven-county housing program using reinvestment funds is underway.
Michael Jeffrey, director of quality management, OMHSAS, dis-cussed data issues. He stated that the current CCR-POMS system is inadequate to capture both Medical Assistance and base-funded services. OMHSAS is undertaking a project to implement CIS num-bers in PROMISe rather than using CCR-POMS. Counties would be able to input person-level encounter data in PROMISe, providers could submit the information through PROMISe, or managed care organizations could provide data. OMHSAS is reviewing outcomes tools to capture POMS information needed by CMS. The intent is to have a standardized tool for use across provider types that is web-based and has been tested by use in another state. The Department of Health appears to be working on a separate system not integrated with HCSIS, CIS, and PROMISe.
Committee members discussed the distribution of the cost-of-living adjustment and the formula applied to determine allocations. Members requested PCPA draft a letter to OMHSAS expressing con-cern about the distribution method. Patricia Clark, Department of Aging, provided an update on Apprise Program regional training programs. A mental health resource center is under discussion using APPRISE volunteers who receive additional training to assist con-sumers. The next Mental Health Committee meeting is November 27. Contact Betty Simmonds ([email protected]) with questions about the committee. f
E P r o v I D e r N e w S 22 November 2007
E C A L e N D A r
N o v e m b e r
monday, November 5 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Pharmacotherapy Work Group PCPA
Tuesday, November 13 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Child and Adolescent Forensic Subcommittee PCPA
Tuesday, November 13 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Forensics Committee PCPA
monday, November 19 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Legislative Affairs Committee Teleconference
Tuesday, November 20 12:00 – 1:30 p.m.
Rate Setting Guide Meeting Conference Call
Tuesday, November 27 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 12:00 – 1:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 3:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Mental Health CommitteeMental Retardation CommitteeExecutive CommitteeDrug & Alcohol CommitteeChildren’s CommitteeExecutive Committee Holiday Inn East, Harrisburg
wednesday, November 28 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Membership Committee Board Meeting Holiday Inn East, Harrisburg
D e C e m b e r
Tuesday, December 11 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Training & Conference Committee PCPA
wednesday, December 19 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Executive Committee PCPA
