SDS e-Alert
10/08/2010
REMINDER - Provider Standard Development Workshop Today
Today, Friday, October 8, SDS will hold the second of a series of Provider Standards Workshops to review the draft Day Habilitation Standards (attached).
The workshop will be held in Anchorage from 1:30 to 3:30pm. The meeting has been moved from Room 896 to 890 of the Frontier Building, 3601 C. Street, and will also be teleconferenced.
To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
If you are not able to attend in person or by teleconference, please respond to this email with questions, comments, and suggestions. Thank you.
10/05/2010
Provider Standards Development Workshop Update
Thank you to everyone who participated in the Friday October 1st “Residential Supported Living” Provider Standards Development Workshop. Because we were not able to complete our work, we will continue with the discussion on Residential Supported Living and Residential Habilitation on Friday, October 22, 1:30 – 3:30 in room 880 of the Frontier Building, 3601 C. Street, Anchorage.
Previously scheduled Workshops will take place as scheduled, in person and on teleconference:
- Day Habilitation – Friday October 8th, Frontier Building, Room 896
- Meals & Transportation – Friday October 15th , Frontier Building, Room 890
To participate by teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
09/30/2010
REMINDER - Provider Standards Development Workshop
Tomorrow, Friday, October 1, SDS will hold the first of a series of Provider Standards Workshops. The workshop will offer providers and other stakeholders the opportunity for input into service standard development.
The workshop will be held in Anchorage from 1:30 to 3:30pm, Room 896 of the Frontier Building, 3601 C. Street, and will also be teleconferenced.
To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
If you are not able to attend in person or by teleconference, please respond to this email with questions, comments, and suggestions. Thank you.
09/30/2010
Changes to Reporting Requirements for Developmental Disabilities Grants and Short-Term Assistance and Referral Programs
The Division of Senior and Disabilities Services has made changes to the reporting requirements for the Community Developmental Disabilities Grant and Short-Term Assistance and Referral (STAR)Programs. The changes only affect the Developmental Disabilities Census and the Cumulative Fiscal Report. As of this date, the Census will only reflect the service and number of units provided per recipient. The unit cost and overall cost per recipient, per service, need no longer be reported. As there will not be any cost associated with the census, this negates the need for the Special Condition of Grant Award that requires the census to match the Cumulative Fiscal Report.
If you have questions, please contact Laurie Cooper at laurie.cooper@alaska.net or 465-3135.
09/29/2010
Medicare Part D “Bootcamp” in Anchorage
The Medicare Information Office is offering several Medicare Part D “Bootcamps” for anyone working with seniors and people with disabilities, to learn more about the Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Plan.
Workshop 1 September 30th 1:00 – 2:30 p.m. - Anchorage Senior Center
Workshop 2 October 6th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. - Older Person’s Action Group
Workshop 3 October 7th 1:30 – 3:00 p.m. - Anchorage Senior Center
Workshop 4 November 5th noon – 1:30 p.m. - Older Person’s Action Group
Workshop 5 November 10th noon – 1:30 p.m. - Senior & Disabilities Services, Room 143
Workshop 6 November 10th 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. - Senior and Disabilities Services, Room 143
Workshop 7 November 12th 10:00 – 11:30 a.m. - (Michelle) Anchorage Senior Center
Please see attached flyer for more information.
09/23/2010
– Training Opportunity – Focus on Veterans
The Alaska Veterans Administration is offering a series of trainings for health and social service providers in Alaska to discuss and learn about topics affecting our military veterans. An individual from the Alaska VA working in the field will present each topic. Trainings are available by teleconference. Please see attached flyer for additional information.
09/23/2010
Verification of Diagnosis Form for OA & APD Waivers and Personal Care Services
SDS has made additional revisions to the Verification of Diagnosis form in order to facilitate use by both the Older Alaskans and Adults with Physical Disabilities waiver programs, and the Personal Care Services program. The form, now if “fillable” pdf format, clarifies that both care coordinators and PCA agency representatives should use the form. In addition, the form now includes a question asking the physician, physician assistant, or an advanced nurse practitioner if the applicant/recipient is cognitively capable to manage his/her own care in a consumer-directed Personal Care Assistance Program.
The form is available at two locations on the SDS web, Care Coordination and Training Resources and the Personal Care Assistance Program. While SDS will accept the Medical Certification form through September 2010, please begin using the new Verification of Diagnosis form as soon as possible. Thank you.
09/23/2010
Training Opportunity – Prevention of Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Adults
The Trust Training Cooperative is offering “Prevention of Abuse and Neglect of Vulnerable Adults” in Anchorage on October 20, 2010. The training will be held from 12:30 to 4:30pm at the Frontier Building, 3601 C Street, Rooms 880 and 890. A flyer is attached.
09/22/2010
Care Coordinator Network Meeting
The Care Coordinator Network will meet on Wednesday, 9/29 from noon until 2pm. Missy Williams from The Anchorage Aging and Disability Resource Center will be the guest speaker at noon and Kara Thrasher-Livingston will be on the phone from 12:30-1:00.
Please visit our website for details (www.alaskaccn.com) including the location, agenda, and past meeting minutes, along with other helpful resources and information.
Conference calling is available for those who cannot attend in person. Call-in information is 1-888-966-8777 if outside of Anchorage or 222-2652 if in Anchorage and the front office will transfer to the conference room. Participants are asked to call back if disconnected. This system is not fool proof and we have had issues monthly with 'glitches' resulting in participants needing to call back.
NEW to the Website is a BLOG for assisted living homes with openings as well as care coordinators with families looking for assisted living homes. Please see the website for details.
09/22/2010
Training Opportunity – “Juggling Work and SSA Benefits”
The UAA Center for Human Development is offering training for providers on how to assist their clients who are working, or want to work, to get and use a Benefits Analysis. The training will be offered in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau and Kenai – flyers are attached.
09/21/2010
Contact Information for Waiver and PCA Prior Authorizations
SDS contacts for waiver and PCA prior authorization (PA) processing is now based on program type. For inquiries regarding PA errors or adjustments, providers can contact the following designated SDS staff. For routine prior authorization inquiries, service providers should contact Affiliated Computer Service (ACS) @ 644-6800. Thank you.
OA Waivers - Lori Renke, lori.renke@alaska.gov, 269-3451
APD/CCMC Waivers - Sybil Blue, sybil.blue@alaska.gov, 269-3651
MRDD Waivers - Melissa Meade, melissa.meade@alaska.gov, 269-3698
PCA Services - Donald Cox, Donald.cox, donald.cox@alaska.gov, 269-3472
09/17/2010
Alaska Commission on Aging Surveys Older Alaskans
The Alaska Commission on Aging is conducting a survey of Alaskans age 50 and older in conjunction with its development of the next State Plan for Senior Services, which will cover fiscal years 2012 through 2015. The anonymous survey includes questions about overall concerns, including financial security, health care, and many others; it also asks about satisfaction with senior services, for those who have used them.
To date, approximately 21,000 paper copies of the survey have been distributed, primarily through the Senior Voice monthly newspaper and senior grant services providers. The Commission has received almost 2,000 responses as of September 15th.
Older Alaskans may complete the survey online by visiting the Alaska Commission on Aging’s website, www.alaskaaging.org, and clicking on the survey link at the top of the home page.
Individual paper copies of the survey are not being mailed out, but those without access to a computer may find them at their senior center, meal program, or other senior services program. Programs that have not received a batch of surveys and would like to distribute them should email MaryAnn VandeCastle at MaryAnn.VandeCastle@alaska..gov.
Responses (which will be accepted through October 15th) will help the Commission to plan services for seniors and to advocate for programs, policies, and laws that benefit seniors.
Thank you.
09/16/2010
SDS E-Alert - Monthly Info Sharing Webinar/Teleconference Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) is hosting monthly information sharing provider teleconferences as an opportunity for open dialogue regarding SDS activities, program changes, and long-term care initiatives. |
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To register for the webinar click here: 
Alternatively, you may access the teleconference only by dialing 1-800-315-6338, access code 3737# (DSDS#)
If you have questions about the webinar/teleconference, or training, please contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston,
Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
09/16/2010
Provider Standards Development Workshops
For the past few months, SDS has been revising regulations that govern administration of its four Medicaid waiver programs. Release of the regulations for public comment has been delayed because, as part of regulation revisions, SDS is in the process of developing standards for a number of waiver services.
In order to ensure quality services to waiver participants and continuous improvement to our waiver system of care, SDS invites contributions from providers and other stakeholders. Three “Standards Development Workshops” will provide the opportunity for input into service standard development. All three workshops will be held in Anchorage from 1:30 to 3:30pm on the 8th floor of the Frontier Building, 3601 C. Street, and will also be teleconferenced.
Friday, October 1 - Residential Supported Living
Room 896 Residential Habilitation
Family Habilitation
Friday, October 8 - Day Habilitation
Room 896
Friday October 15 - Meals
Room 890 Transportation
To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
Attached you will find the draft standards for the October 1st and 8th meetings. These are draft only, as we look forward to your suggestions.
09/03/2010
Advanced Care Coordinator Webinar Training
If you are a Care Coordinator who is currently certified and working as a Care Coordinator for 24 months or longer, and you would like to attend additional training, we’d like you to know about the upcoming Senior and Disabilities Services Advanced Care Coordination webinar series, October 2010.
This webinar series has three sessions. Registrants need to attend all three sessions, and complete and turn in two short assignments to successfully complete the class. There are no make-up sessions for missed classes. You will receive a certificate of training, good for recertification, upon completion of this webinar series. Scheduled topics include but are not limited to: choice and person centeredness, Environmental Modifications, eligibility updates with DPA, and resources for Care Coordinators.
To register for Senior and Disabilities Services Advanced Care Coordination Webinar Series, please click on the registration button below.
You will then fill out a short form and your registration is complete. You will receive a confirmation email with system requirements and other information about the Go-To-Webinar system. You will receive a reminder email with a link to join the webinar, one day before your webinar, and again one hour before your webinar.
OCTOBER 2010
ADVANCED CARE COORDINATION WEBINAR SERIES: OCTOBER 13, 2010 1pm-3pm
OCTOBER 20, 2010 1pm-3pm
OCTOBER 27, 2010 1pm-3pm
If you have questions about the training or the webinar system, please email Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II,
Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
07/23/2010
The (Medicare Part D Rebate) Check is in the Mail
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) began mailing the first group of rebate checks beginning June 10, 2010. Checks will continue to be mailed as more people reach the doughnut hole; over the course of 2010 more than 3 million people will receive the $250 rebate check.
What You Need to Know About the Checks
Checks will be mailed automatically. Protect yourself against frauds. Medicare tracks your drug costs for you. Once you reach the coverage gap, you will receive a check. No one should contact you about these checks. If someone says they can help you get your check more quickly for a fee, it is a scam. Please report suspicious activity to the Medicare Information Office helpline at 1-800-478-6065, or call Medicare at 1-800-633-4227. Thank you.
09/14/2010
Alaska Autism Resource Center Visual Strategies Series
The Alaska Autism Resource Center is providing a new statewide “Visual Strategies Series". This is a monthly event that participants can attend, for free, in the Anchorage and Fairbanks offices or via live on-line streaming to learn a strategy, make their own supports, and practice using them. Material kits are available for purchase (at cost) from our resource center and can be mailed anywhere in the state. Topics and final products will change monthly, so refer to the attached flier.
09/14/2010
Participate in Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
The Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is proud to support the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) new "Take-Back" initiative, a program designed to prevent increased prescription drug abuse and theft. On September 25, 2010, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. local time, DEA will collect potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs nationwide; drugs collected will then be taken to destruction sites.
Event Details:
Nationwide Prescription Drug Take-Back Day
September 25, 2010
10 a.m.–2 p.m., local time
Find a collection site
On September 25, 2010, DEA will coordinate a collaborative effort with state and local law enforcement agencies to remove potentially dangerous controlled substances from our nation’s medicine cabinets. Collection activities will take place from 10:00 a.m. through 2:00 p.m. at sites established throughout the country. The National Take-Back Day provides an opportunity for the public to surrender expired, unwanted, or unused pharmaceutical controlled substances and other medications for destruction. These drugs are a potential source of supply for illegal use and an unacceptable risk to public health and safety.
This one-day effort is intended to bring national focus to the issue of increasing pharmaceutical controlled substance abuse.
- The program is anonymous.
- Prescription and over the counter solid dosage medications, i.e. tablets and capsules accepted.
- Intra-venous solutions, injectables, and needles will not be accepted.
- Illicit substances such as marijuana or methamphetamine are not a part of this initiative.
Find collection site(s) near you
Please check back often as new collection sites will be added daily.
Additional Resources
Press Release
09/13/2010
Basic Care Coordination Webinar Training Series
Senior and Disabilities Services Basic Care Coordination is now available as a webinar series. The next series will be held in November/December 2010.
This webinar series has six sessions. Registrants need to attend at least five sessions, and complete and turn in two short assignments to successfully complete the class. The last webinar in the series is a make-up session. You will receive a certificate of training, good for certification application, upon completion of this webinar series. Scheduled topics include but are not limited to: The basics of providing the service of the coordination of care, service principles, understanding the plan of care, and interfacing with SDS supports.
To register for the Basic Care Coordination webinar series, please click on the registration button below. You will then fill out a short form and your registration is complete. You will receive a confirmation email with system requirements and other information about the Go-To-Webinar system. You will receive a reminder email with a link to join the webinar, one day before your webinar, and again one hour before your webinar.
Basic Care Coordination webinar series dates:
Mondays
November 1, 1-3 pm
November 8, 1-3 pm
November 15, 1-3 pm
November 22, 1-3 pm
November 29, 1-3 pm
December 6, 1-3 pm
If you have questions about the webinar, classes or training, please contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II,
Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
09/09/2010
New Senior and Disabilities Services Training Schedule and Registration for October, November and December 2010 Classes Now Available!
Short Class Descriptions
Advanced Care Coordination: For Care Coordinators currently certified for 24 months or more only. Topics include but are not limited to: Care Coordination from the individual and family perspective, person centeredness, community resources, review of regulations, documentation, and providing Care Coordination in partnership with SDS.
Agency Based PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Agency Based PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. Required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Consumer Directed PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Consumer Directed PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. Required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Basic Care Coordination: The basics of providing the service of the coordination of care. Topics include service principles, understanding the plan of care, and interfacing with SDS supports.
Residential Supported Living in an Assisted Living Home: The basic requirements for providing residential service in an Assisted Living Home. Topics include service principles, service definitions, understanding a resident’s circle of care, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports.
Please note:
- The registration form also serves as a class schedule.
- You may register for any face to face class using the registration form. You will receive an email confirmation of your registration.
- For webinars- you may use this form to indicate your class choice. You will receive an email invitation to register online for your webinar.
To register, fill out the registration form and email it to the Training mailbox, hss.dsdstraining@alaska.gov
If you have questions about Senior and Disabilities Services classes or registration, please contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II,
kara.thrasher-livingston@alaska.gov
09/08/2010
Medicare Information Office Anchorage Medicare Workshop
09/02/2010
Critical Incident Reporting Web-based Training Schedule for October, November and December 2010
SDS requires all Medicaid waiver service providers to receive training on Critical Incident Reporting and Critical Incident Improvement Plans. SDS will offer this training via “Go To Webinar” throughout September, October, November and December, 2010.
SDS assures the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) that recipients of Medicaid waiver services are safe and healthy in their homes and communities. Critical incident reporting by providers of waiver services is one important way of carrying out this mandate. In addition, the collection and aggregation of critical incident data by SDS allows the agency to track trends and identify gaps in services. Critical incident reporting also offers the opportunity for greater communication between providers and SDS as well as a channel for technical assistance.
Providers must train their staff. Provider agencies choose staff to attend the online training, and then train additional staff at their own agency. All CIR/CIIP learning materials are available to participants after attending the online class, to use for this purpose.
To register for Senior and Disabilities Services Critical Incident Reporting Webinar:
Please choose from one of the following dates, click on the registration button, and register.
You will fill out a short form and your registration is complete. You will receive a confirmation email with system requirements and other information about the Go-To-Webinar system. You will receive a reminder email with a link to join the webinar, one day before your webinar, and again one hour before your webinar.
Please choose the date that works for you and register:
TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 21, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY OCTOBER 12, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY OCTOBER 19, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY OCTOBER 26, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 2, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 9, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY NOVEMBER 16, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY DECEMBER 7, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
TUESDAY DECEMBER 21, 2010, 2-3:30 pm 
If you have questions about the webinar system or the training, please email Kara Thrasher-Livingston,
Training Specialist II, Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
08/31/2010
UPDATE – Policy Clarification for Older Alaskans and Adults with Physical Disabilities Eligibility and Enrollment Policies
Waiver Eligibility Policy Effective Date
New policies outlining responsibilities and processes for OA and APD waiver eligibility and enrollment have added timelines for waiver renewals. Care coordinators are now required to submit a complete renewal application no later than 60 days before the expiration of the period covered by the preceding level of care approval. To accommodate this provision, SDS has extended the effective date of the policies to October 1. In the future, SDS will specify an effective date for all new or revised policies.
Documents Needed for Waiver Renewal
The Release of Information form will be required as part of a complete waiver renewal application. As required by HIPAA, a participant’s release of information expires after one year, and must be renewed annually.
As stated in the eligibility policies, the Verification of Diagnosis form is not required for the renewal application. However, SDS may request a new form if needed to complete the level of care determination. In addition, if any time during the year a participant’s diagnosis changes, the care coordinator should submit a new Verification of Diagnosis form.
Thank you.
08/30/2010
Health Care Reform Provider Forum
On Thursday September 2nd , 8:30 – 11:30am, the Rasmuson Foundation and Providence Health and Services will host a health care provider forum on Federal Health Care Reform. The forum will be held in Anchorage at the UAA Student Union Building. See the attached flyer for more information.
08/26/2010
Forum on Personal Care Assistance Provider Medicaid Enrollment
On Friday, September 3rd, Bill Streur, Deputy Commissioner for Medicaid & Health Care Policy, will host a forum for providers of Personal Care Assistance services. The purpose of the meeting is to provide an overview of the PCA enrollment process and to engage the provider community in a discussion about the implementation, the timeline and expected outcomes of enrolling providers.
The September 3rd forum will be held in Anchorage from 10:00am – 12 noon in Rm. 890 of the Frontier Building at 3601 C Street. No pre-registration is required.
The forum will also be teleconferenced. To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code 3030#. Lines are limited, so please gather at a single line to the extent possible.
For questions, please respond to this email or call Angela Salerno at 465-4874. Thank you.
08/23/2010
Verification of Diagnosis Form – Revision and Clarification
The Verification of Diagnosis form is part of a complete application for the Older Alaskans and Adults with Physical Disabilities waiver programs, as well as for the Personal Care Services Program. On June 20th SDS released the new form along with directions given for its use.
Thank you to everyone who commented. In response, SDS has revised the form as well as the procedures for completion and routing.
The form now has a section that the care coordinator completes with the care coordinator’s name, fax number and email, as well as the applicant/participant’s name, date of birth and Medicaid number. The form is in a .pdf format that allows this information to be entered by computer. While you cannot save a completed form, you can fill in the requested information, print the form, then either fax, or scan and email to the provider.
The form has a checklist of diagnoses and instructs the physician, physician assistant or advanced nurse practitioner to check all that apply, and to circle the primary diagnosis. Instructions on the top of the form direct the practitioner to fax or scan and email the form to the care coordinator, so that the care coordinator can submit the form as part of a complete application. In addition, the requirement to include ICD-9 codes has been eliminated.
The revised form is attached, and is available on the SDS web at Care Coordination Training and Resource Materials. While SDS will accept the Medical Certification form through September 2010, please begin using the new Verification of Diagnosis form as soon as possible.
Thank you for your patience, and sorry for the confusion.
08/18/2010
Intensive Active Treatment Regulation and Billing Change
As you may already be aware, T2034, Intensive Active Treatment Services (IAT), which provide for quarterly nursing oversight & other behavior interventions have been proposed for regulatory changes to both unit application and rate structure. If all steps of the regulatory adoption process proceed as planned, all active PA’s in this service category that fall after the regulatory implementation date will require conversion.
To prepare for this, SDS will need to temporarily delay prior authorizations for approved T2034 service requests that start after 10/01/10 in order to better plan and execute the required conversions. Our plan is to have these services converted to the new rates, units, and billing codes within five business days following the regulatory implementation.
For those T2034 services related to quarterly nursing oversight already prior authorized that extend through Oct 2010, SDS will need to determine with you exactly when services are scheduled to start and end. For those agencies providing IAT quarterly nursing oversight, please contact Andrew Sandusky in Operations Integrity Unit not later than 8/25/10 with the name and phone number of your designated agency contact person who can accurately demonstrate T2034 service date-points for all participants you serve in this billing category. Thank you.
andy.sandusky@alaska.gov
269-3448
08/13/2010
Care Coordinator Network Meeting
The Care Coordinator Network will meet on Wednesday, 8/25 from noon until 2pm. Frontier Medical will be the guest speaker at noon and Kara Thrasher-Livingston will be on the phone from 12:30-1:00.
Please visit our website for details (www.alaskaccn.com) including the location, agenda, and past meeting minutes, along with other helpful resources and information.
Conference calling is available for those who cannot make it in person. Call-in information is 1-888-966-8777 if outside of Anchorage or 222-2652 if in Anchorage and the front office will transfer to the conference call.
08/11/2010
New Policy in Effect – Children with Complex Medical Conditions Program Eligibility and Enrollment
Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) administers the Children with Complex Medical Conditions (CCMC) program, a component of Home and Community-Based Waiver Services. The CCMC program is a Medicaid program that funds services for individuals, under the age of 22 years, who require a level of care ordinarily provided in a nursing facility. The Division of Public Assistance determines whether individuals meet financial eligibility requirements, and SDS determines whether individuals meet program eligibility requirements. This policy provides a standardized process for program eligibility determinations and delineates responsibilities for the process.
Please note – new procedure for CCMC waiver renewals. This new policy requires that, no later than 60 days before expiration of the period covered by the preceeding NFLOC approval, SDS will notify, by email, both the care coordinator and RN assessor of the need to renew. The care coordinator then has 45 days before expiration of the period to submit the waiver renewal documents. This procedure will help SDS meet submission deadlines and improve our timeliness and service to clients.
The new CCMC policy is attached, and will also be available soon in the SDS on-line policy manual. Thank you.
08/6/2010
E-Alert for PCA Providers - Change in Process
The change in process terminating the ‘3-day email’ is the only change to the existing processing of incomplete applications in regards to PCA Policy 10-08, renumbered policy 2007-8 signed 4/2/07.
Assessments earlier than 90 days prior to the end date of a recipient’s service plan may occur due to application for additional services that may generate a new CAT assessment and application review, during prior authorization span dates for PCA services. When this occurs, a recipient’s Level of Service (LOS) is changed resulting in the reset of the annual renewal date.
SDS reviews the prior application documents received and if the documents are within 60 days of expiring they are not considered to be valid for the new application and will result in an incomplete application status. If the application documents are determined valid, SDS enters the documents in the application to support the new CAT assessment review.
All incomplete notices, the 15-business day and the 30 day Closure notice, are delivered to the Provider agency of record’s contact email prior to the certified letter being sent to the recipient.
This provides the provider agency with a window of opportunity to communicate with SDS regarding any discrepancies in the documents that are listed as missing and/or the other information that could affect the status of PCA services for the recipient such as ‘recipient now resides in a residence not allowable by PCA regulations’.
This communication process continues to function the same as the email and phone communication occurring after a provider agency received a ‘3-day email’ notice that appeared inaccurate.
Responsibility to obtain a completed Medical Certification or Verification of Diagnosis form has not changed, see Policy 10-9. Prior to noticing a recipient for a missing Medical Certification or Verification of Diagnosis form SDS has completed at least 2 written attempts to obtain the completed document from the medical provider of record on the recipient’s demographics form and has not received the document.
07/23/2010
Q & A on the Verification of Diagnosis Form
Q . Is this new form to be used for both Waiver and PCA? Do all Medical Verification forms now go to the new number?
A. Yes, please use the new form for both Waiver and PCA clients. Both programs should use the 269-6246 fax number.
Q: Is the Care Coordinator required to send the Verification of Diagnosis form to the physician or is SDS doing it?
A: The Care Coordinator is responsible for sending the form to the physician, physician assistant, or advanced nurse practitioner, who will then fax it back to 269-6246.
Q. Are we to send renewal applications with the Verification of Diagnosis form to the 269-6246 fax number or just the Verification of Diagnosis form?
A. Please continue to send the renewal application to the 269-3639 fax number.
07/23/2010
Information Sharing Teleconferences - Care Coordination Status Report
SDS is hosting monthly information sharing provider teleconferences, and now webinars - as an opportunity for open dialogue regarding SDS activities, program changes, and long-term care initiatives.
This webinar/teleconference is of special interest to Care Coordinators. Join Yelena Young and Kara Thrasher-Livingston for a webinar/teleconference and Q & A session about a new process: Care Coordination Status Report.
The Status Report will be a monthly communication between SDS and Care Coordinators. The purpose of the Status Report process is to help verify that SDS and Care Coordinators have matching participant data on record. The presentation will share the process for this new system including relevant documents and forms.
We are offering two sessions. Please click on the button to register for the webinar session of your choice (please note- for the webinar, you will need to join the audio portion by phone, using the toll free number, which is also provided in your registration confirmation.)
July 29, 2010 2-3:30 pm 
August 18, 2010 2-3:30 pm 
Alternatively, you may choose to participate by teleconference only:
Call 1-800-315-6338
Access code - DSDS# (3737#)
07/21/2010
REVISED VERIFICATION OF DIAGNOSIS FORM
The Verification of Diagnosis form sent by E-Alert this afternoon (see below) has the incorrect fax number for the SDS Waiver Unit.
The correct fax number is 269-6246, and has been corrected on the form. Please discard the form attached to the previous E-Alert, and use only the one attached.
Sorry for the confusion.
07/20/2010
Two New Policies in Effect – Older Alaskans Eligibility and Enrollment and Adults with Physical Disabilities Eligibility and Enrollment; New Verification of Diagnosis Form
Policies
Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) administers the Older Alaskans (OA) program and the Adults with Physical Disabilities (APD) program as components of Mediciaid Home and Community-Based Waiver Services. The OA program funds services for eligible individuals age 65 and older, and the APD program funds services for eligible individuals, ages 21 through 64 years, who require a level of care ordinarily provided in a nursing facility.
The Older Alaskans Eligibility and Enrollment policy and the Adults with Physical Disabilities Eligibility and Enrollment policy provide a standardized process for program eligibility determinations, and delineate responsibilities for the process.
Verification of Diagnosis Form
These policies introduce the new Verification of Diagnosis form (attached) that will replace the Medical Certification form as part of a complete application. The Verification of Diagnosis form requires the applicant’s physician, physician assistant, or advanced nurse practitioner to simply check a box or boxes indicating the patient’s diagnosis, and provide the corresponding IDC-9 code. The provider then faxes the form to SDS.
While SDS will accept the Medicial Certification form through September, 2010, please begin using the Verification of Diagnosis form as soon as possible. Thank you.
07/14/2010
Two Policies for Public Comment – Restrictive Interventions and Critical Incident Reporting (revised)
Restrictive Interventions
Because the use of restrictive interventions has a potential for causing harm to participants and for infringing participant rights, Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) requires that use be limited and in compliance with the standards established by this policy. This policy informs providers of requirements for the use of restrictive interventions, and defines a process for monitoring use and compliance with SDS Standards for the Use of Restrictive Interventions.
Critical Incident Reporting
One element of the SDS quality improvement program is the critical incident reporting (CIR) and management system. Critical incident reporting provides SDS with data needed to identify and evaluate systemic problems, and to address problems experienced by provider agencies. Through this reporting and assistance process, SDS and provider agencies work to protect the health, safety, and welfare of participants. The policy sets responsibilities for incident reporting and management, describes the required elements of a provider agency incident reporting and management system, and provides for the collection of relevant data for analysis and improvements to the quality of SDS and provider agency operations.
While the original policy became effective in January of 2010, SDS must amend certain provisions in order to be incompliance with quality improvement goals.
Changes were made in the following areas:
- Additional items added to “definition” section;
- Changes from 72 to 24 hours the timeframe in which an agency must report a critical incident;
- Adds “use of restrictive interventions” as a circumstance requireing an SDS CIR;
- Clarifies the role of Adult Protective Services in SDS CIR management;
- Establishes a 24 hour timeframe for SDS to review a CIR report.
To comment, you may reply to this message or, go to the SDS web at the Policy Development Process where you may use the links provided to view the policies and to send your comments.
We would appreciate receiving comments by August 13, 2010. Thank you.
07/12/2010
REMINDER - Personal Care Assistance Regulation Workshops
SDS is beginning the process of revising the Personal Care Assistance regulations at 7 AAC 125.010 – 7 AAC 125.999 and is seeking input from providers and other stakeholders during two statewide teleconferences on Wednesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 15, 2:00 – 4:00pm. We plan to review the regulations section by section, and if we run out of time, we will complete the work on Friday, July 16.
To reach the teleconferences: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
The PCA regulations currently in effect are attached for your review. Thank you.
07/08/2010
Health Care Services Survey on Electronic Health Records
The Division of Health Care Services requests that health care providers respond to a short survey that will help determine who may qualify for Electronic Health Records (EHR) incentive payments from the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS).
Part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) establishes an incentive program for eligible Medicare and Medicaid professionals to adopt, implement or upgrade EHR technology in their businesses. Before DHSS can make incentive payments to eligible providers and hospitals, it is required to assess the baseline EHR usage among all providers and determine the number interested in participating in the incentive program.
Please fill out the online survey, which should take ten to 15 minutes to complete.
For more information, go to the Health Information Technologies (HIT) website or e-mail at hss.hitinfo@alaska.gov. Look for additional information at the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services site.
07/08/2010
DPA Training in Fairbanks/North Pole for Care Coordinators and Assisted Living Home Operators
Division of Public Assistance (DPA) Long-Term Care Coordinator Terry Hamm will be in Fairbanks on Wednesday, July 21 to provide trainings on Medicaid eligibility rules and other aspects of DPA policy.
Session 1 – Care Coordinator Training
Wednesday, July 21
Time: 9 – 11:30 am
Place: 675 7th Ave, Station M Conference Room
Topics:
- Medicaid Eligibility and different categories of Medicaid
- Working with Public Assistance
Session 2 – Assisted Living Home and Nursing Home Administrators
Wednesday, July 21
Time: 1:30 – 3 pm
Place: 675 7th Ave, Station M Conference Room
- General Medicaid policy
- Cost of Care
- How to interpret the notices from Public Assistance
Please register for one or both sessions by emailing Terry Hamm at Terry.Hamm@alaska.gov
07/06/2010
CMS Teleconference - The Public Voice and Health Care Reform
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Secretary’s Office on Disability invite you to a special conference call on: THE PUBLIC VOICE AND HEALTH CARE REFORM
This special call is designed to help advocates and beneficiaries understand the public policy making process and how they can make sure their voices are heard.
Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions of DHSS policy makers about opportunities for public input on provisions of health care reform.
Please dial in about 10 minutes before the call begins. There will a limited number of phone lines and we ask that participants from the same organization to share a phone line.
DATE: July 14, 2010
TIME: 1:00 PM EST – 9:00 AM ALASKA TIME
CALL-IN NUMBER: 866-802-4322
Both a text transcript and an mp3 file of the call will be placed on the Office of Disability website and on CMS’s Partnership page.
07/01/2010
Personal Care Assistance Regulation Workshop
SDS is beginning the process of revising the Personal Care Assistance regulations at 7 AAC 125.010 – 7 AAC 125.999 and is seeking input from providers and other stakeholders during two statewide teleconferences on Wednesday, July 14 and Thursday, July 15, 2:00 – 4:00pm. We plan to review the regulations section by section, and if we run out of time, we will complete the work on Friday, July 16.
To reach the teleconferences: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
The PCA regulations currently in effect are attached for your review.
Thank you.
06/17/2010
Dementia Care Professionals of America Seeks Nominations for “Dementia Care Professional of the Year”
Dementia Care Professionals of America (DCPA), a division of the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA), seeks to recognize those who work tirelessly to improve quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias and their families.
In any industry, there are those professionals who simply shine—people with creativity, passion and determination. The dementia community is fortunate to have these professionals as well. DCPA aims to identify exceptional individuals serving the dementia community and to celebrate their accomplishments by presenting the Dementia Care Professional of the Year Award. These are the people who are making a difference in their community, the individuals who are changing the field of practice for the better, and the ones who are willing to go above and beyond for clients in need. They define care, compassion and commitment.
DCPA will award “Dementia Care Professional of the Year” to one individual each year who has demonstrated true professional excellence in care, compassionate performance above and beyond expectations, and a dedicated commitment to individuals with dementia. These accomplishments can be recent or accumulated throughout a career of dedicated service.
The professional may be nominated by peers, colleagues, employers, clients or client families. Nominees must be currently employed in a professional capacity as a provider of care or service to individuals with dementia or their families. Professionals may be from any industry or field of practice (i.e., personal care aides, activities therapists, program directors, support group leaders, administrators). Nominees do not need to be members of Dementia Care Professionals of America, and they do not need to be affiliated in any way with the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America or its member organizations.
Deadline for nominations is September 1st. Visit http://www.careprofessionals.org/dcp_of_the_year_award/ for more information.
06/17/2010
June SDS “Information Sharing” Teleconference
SDS is hosting monthly information sharing provider teleconferences as an opportunity for open dialogue regarding SDS activities, program changes, and long-term care initiatives. The next teleconference will be Tuesday, June 29, 1:00 – 2:30pm.
Topics and speakers:
Jerri Van Sandt, SDS Quality Assurance Program Manager will join us for a discussion about these new draft policies and procedures:
- Complaint Management
- Provider Certification and Oversight
(You may also view and comment on these policies at http://www.hss.state.ak.us/dsds/policies/review.htm)
We will also discuss Quality Assurance updates.
To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II will moderate the meeting. If you have any questions about the meeting or training please email Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov or call 907-269-3685. Thank you.
06/07/2010
Two Draft Policies Available for Comment – Complaint Management and Provider Certification and Oversight
Complaint Management
Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) provides for a complaint system that offers a number of approaches to resolve problems and issues with program operations or services. This system, which includes provider grievance processes as well as state agency processes, fosters the identification of problems that, when remediated, lead to improvement in the quality of program operations and to the health, safety, and welfare of participants. This policy provides guidelines for evaluating complaints and informs individuals of the processes for resolution of complaints.
Provider Certification and Oversight
SDS administers an open and continuous provider certification process. Certification is a means of protecting participant health, safety, and welfare by requiring providers to meet established standards. On-going monitoring of providers by SDS fosters compliance with these standards, and with applicable policies, regulations, and statutes. This policy informs providers of the requirements for certification and defines a process for monitoring compliance and remediation of deficiencies.
To comment, you may reply to this message or, go to the SDS web at the Policy Development Process where you may use the links provided to view the policies and to send your comments.
We would appreciate receiving comments by July 9, 2010. Thank you.
06/07/2010
Updated Personal Care Service Eligibility Codes and Fee Schedule
Attached is a copy of the updated Personal Care Service Eligibility Codes Table. You may also find the table at http://medicaidalaska.com/providers/provupdates.shtml. Please replace the eligibility codes table in both the Consumer-Directed and Agency-Based Personal Care Services billing manuals with this updated table.
Personal Care Service Providers can also visit http://medicaidalaska.com/providers/provupdates.shtml for an updated copy of the Personal Care Services Fee Schedule.
06/04/2010
Same Day Reassessment Appointments
SDS is implementing a trial plan designed to use assessment time more efficiently and maximize all opportunities for timely reassessments.
When participants cancel scheduled reassessment appointments without advance warning, rescheduling these missed time slots is difficult to manage. With the help of Care Coordinators and PCA agencies, the Assessment Unit will compile a list of participants who are available for a reassessment with little advanced notice. When a slot opens unexpectedly, an SDS scheduler will contact these participants, moving down the list until a reassessment is scheduled. Because of time considerations, it may not be possible for care coordinators to attend these same day assessments.
Only participants needing reassessments will be able to access same day appointments. Those needing initial or expedited assessments will not be considered for these slots.
The initial trial will include only those participants who need reassessment in June and July 2010. Because it may be difficult to secure interpreter services on short notice, participants will need to be able to speak English. In addition, they must be free from significant cognition or language problems, and cannot have a Power of Attorney in place. The participant’s scheduled appointment will remain in place unless they access a same day appointment.
Participation is optional. Care coordinators and PCA agencies wishing to participate may submit a list of all willing individuals to Molly Erickson at molly.erickson@alaska.gov. Please send in complete lists of participants rather than one at a time. The trial will start with 50 participants on the waiver list and 50 on the PCA list.
For questions or more information, contact Molly Erickson at 269-3653 or molly.erickson@alaska.gov.
06/03/2010
New Senior and Disabilities Services Training Schedule- July, August and September 2010
Registration for Senior and Disabilities Services training for July, August and September is now available for the following classes:
Advanced Care Coordination: For Care Coordinators currently certified for 24 months or more only. Topics include but are not limited to: Care Coordination from the individual and family perspective, person centeredness, community resources, review of regulations, documentation, and providing Care Coordination in partnership with SDS.
Agency Based PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Agency Based PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. This training is required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Consumer Directed PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Consumer Directed PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. This training is required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Critical Incident Reporting and Critical Incident Improvement Plans: Required training for certified providers. How to identify Critical Incidents, how to report them, and the Critical Incident Improvement Plan process.
Basic Care Coordination: The basics of providing the service of the coordination of care. Topics include service principles, understanding the plan of care, and interfacing with SDS supports.
Residential Supported Living in an Assisted Living Home: The basic requirements for providing residential service in an Assisted Living Home. Topics include service principles, service definitions, understanding a resident’s circle of care, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports.
Classes are offered via webinar and in person.
If you would like to register for any of the above classes, please fill out the form (attached) and send to the Training inbox, hss.dsdstraining@alaska.gov
You may also view class descriptions and download the registration form at http://www.hss.state.ak.us/dsds/carecoordinationtraining/ccTraining.htm under the link that says “use this link for the registration form”.
If you have any questions about training please contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II, Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
05/21/2010
Care Coordinator Network Meeting
The Care Coordinator Network will meet on Wednesday, 5/26 from noon until 2pm. Kara Thrasher-Livingston will be on the phone from 12- 12:30.
Conference calling is available for those who cannot make it in person for up to 20 calls so please try to 'group call' : Call-in information is 1-888-966-8777.
Please visit our website for details (www.alaskaccn.com). Location, agenda, and past meeting minutes are posted, along with other helpful resources and information.
05/07/2010
ACRH/AHDEC Name that Website Contest
The UAA, Alaska Center for Rural Health – Alaska’s AHEC and the Alaska Healthcare Distance Education Collaborative (AHDEC) are leading the effort to improve access to continuing education (CE/CME) events in our state. AHDEC is a cross-organizational workgroup including members from the Alaska Native Tribal Health Consortium (ANTHC), Alaska Primary Care Association (APCA), Providence Health and Services Alaska (PHSA), and the University of Alaska.
The groups’ first project is to create a statewide website for posting and retrieving information about upcoming, health-focused CE/CME events for healthcare professionals, AND, they need your help in coming up with the perfect name for our state’s only statewide, health-focused CE website!
NAME THAT WEBSITE CONTEST
After reading the website description below, please submit your ideas online at: http://acrh-ahec.uaa.alaska.edu/ahec/ce-website_contest.html. Contest entries will be accepted until 11:59 pm on Friday, May 21st. You can enter as many times as you’d like and the winner of the $200 Visa Gift Card will be announced by June 15, 2010. Enter your brilliant ideas early and often! The only eligibility requirement is that you must be an Alaska resident.
Each entry will be evaluated based on the following equally weighted criteria:
- Appropriateness of name to entire Alaska Healthcare System
- Inclusivity of all health professionals in variety of settings
- Relationship to education and/or learning
- Creativity of name
WEBSITE DESCRIPTION / BACKGROUND
Perhaps you heard the groups’ “Informercial” at last week’s Alaska Rural Health Conference, but just in case, here is a brief description of the website.
First and foremost, this project is being managed and developed by Alaskans working in Alaska’s unique healthcare system and who are passionate about supporting our healthcare facilities and their staff in delivering the highest quality of care in the nation.
**If this describes you, and you’d like to get more involved in the development of this tool, please contact Katy Branch at ankeb@uaa.alaska.edu.**
The goal of this website is to:
- Provide a single, public location where CE events can be advertised by organizations and accessed by healthcare and education professionals;
- Integrate the marketing for both in-person and distance-delivered education available in Alaska;
- Reduce the redundancy in current marketing strategies by posting to a single location – “Just say NO to e-mail listservs;”
- Incorporate clinical and non-clinical healthcare disciplines, including: Nursing, the therapy occupations, physicians, behavioral health, administrative and leadership training, ancillary services occupations, medical billing and coding, human resources, etc.;
- Allow registered users to receive alerts when new events in their interest areas have posted;
- Create a user-friendly, easy-to-navigate website that contains standardized information about each event including: description, target audience, availability of CE/CME units, registration information, distance-delivery information, etc.
Does that description get your creative juices flowing? If so, click here to enter Alaska’s "Name That Website" contest for a chance to win a $200 Visa Gift Card!
5/04/2010
Registration Now Open for 2010 Alaska Autism Summer Institute
The Trust Training Cooperative-sponsored Alaska Autism Summer Institute will be held June 7th-11th 2010, at the University of Alaska, Anchorage. On-line registration is now available.
You can choose to register for Track 1 or Track 2. Agendas and other information will be distributed to registrants as soon as possible.
Registration is limited and expected to fill up fast so sign up today!
5/04/2010
SDS Contact Information
Please use this updated contact information for specific questions about individual assessments, Level of Care determinations, and Plans of Care:
For person-specific questions about OA, APD and CCMC Assessments and Nursing Facility Level of Care determinations, please contact:
- Leanna Rein, Assessment Unit Manager
Leanna.Rein@alaska.gov or 907-269-3604
For person-specific questions about Home and Community Based Waivers, please contact:
- Caroline Hogan, Health Program Manager III, Waiver Unit
Caroline.Hogan@alaska.gov, or call 907-269-3654 - Maureen Harwood, Health Program Manager II, Waiver Unit
Maureen.Harwood@alaska.gov or call 907-451-5041
For person-specific questions about ICAP Assessments and ICAP Level of Care determinations, please contact:
- Summer Ashcraft, Health Program Manager II, Waiver Unit
Summer.Ashcraft@alaska.gov or call 907-269-3089
Thank you.
4/30/2010
Public Comment Period for HCBS Rate Regulations Extended
The DHSS Commissioner’s Office has issued a supplemental notice of proposed changes to the HCBS rate setting regulations (see below) extending the time for public comment until 4:00pm, May 17. A copy of the proposed regulations is attached.
The DHSS Office of Rate Review will also be conducting an informational workshop on the proposed regulations on May 6, 2010, 1:00 PM to 3:00pm in Suite 896 of the Frontier Building, 3601 C Street, Anchorage, Alaska. Interested persons who are not able to attend the workshop in person may participate by calling 1-800-315-6338, pass code 2447#. Official public comment on the record will not be taken at this informational workshop, but will be accepted in writing.
Please note: This package includes only those regulations that affect HCBS Medicaid rate setting. SDS is now in the process of drafting amendments to regulations governing HCBS Medicaid services. We anticipate that these draft regulations will be available for public comment in late May.
Supplemental Notice - Proposed Rate Setting Methodologies for Home and Community Based Waiver Services
SUPPLEMENTAL NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGES IN THE REGULATIONS OF THE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES
THIS IS A SUPPLEMENTAL NOTICE adding to the NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGES that was issued on March 31, 2010. This SUPPLEMENTAL NOTICE incorporates material previously set out in the NOTICE OF PROPOSED CHANGES issued on March 31, 2010. This SUPPLEMENTAL NOTICE is being issued because the Department of Health and Social Services has decided to extend the public comment period to allow individuals more time to review the proposed regulation changes in Title 7, Chapters 125, 130, 145, and 160, of the Alaska Administrative Code, dealing with proposed rate setting methodologies for the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services Division of Senior and Disabilities Services for Medicaid home and community based waiver services and proposed cost survey forms and instructions. The department also intends to hold an informational workshop to help explain the proposed changes. Information about how to obtain a copy of the March 31, 2010 notice, or a copy of the proposed regulations, is set out below. The changes described in the March 31, 2010 notice, and set out in the proposed regulations, are summarized as follows:
1. 7 AAC 125.010, Purpose and scope of personal care services, is proposed to be amended to implement accounting, reporting, and cost survey requirements for providers of personal care services.
2. 7 AAC 130.275, Intensive active treatment services, is proposed to be amended to clarify and make specific coverage limitations.
3. 7 AAC 130.305, Specialized medical equipment and supplies, is proposed to be amended to further define what specialized medical equipment and supplies are covered by Medicaid.
4. 7 AAC 145.500, Personal care services payment rates, is proposed to be amended to revise the rates and rate setting methodology for personal care services.
5. 7 AAC 145.520, Home and community-based waiver services; nursing facility and ICF/MR level-of-care payment rates, is proposed to be repealed and readopted, the title of this section is proposed to be changed to Reimbursement rates for home and community-based waiver services, and further define and revise the rates and rate setting methodology for home and community-based services.
6. 7 AAC 145.530, Home and community-based waiver services; nursing facility and ICF/MR level-of-care determination of administrative and general cost rates, is proposed to be repealed and readopted, the title of this section is proposed to be changed to Accounting and Reporting, and further define the accounting and reporting requirements for providers of waiver services.
7. 7 AAC 145.535, Cost Survey, is a proposed new section that establishes cost survey participation requirements for providers of waiver services including use of the Cost Survey adopted by reference in 7 AAC 160.900.
8. 7 AAC 160.900, Requirements adopted by reference, is proposed to be amended to adopt by reference a revised Specialized Medical Equipment Fee Schedule, adopt by reference the Chart of Waiver Services Rates, and adopt by reference the Cost Survey.
You may comment on these proposed regulation changes, including the potential costs to private persons of complying with the proposed changes, by submitting written comments to Randall Schlapia, Office of Rate Review, 3601 C Street, Suite 978, Anchorage, AK, 99503; E-mail: randall.schlapia@alaska.gov
The comments must be received no later than 4:00 p.m. on May 17, 2010.
INFORMATIONAL WORKSHOP: The department will be conducting an informational workshop as an opportunity for persons affected by the proposed regulations to ask questions and receive more information on the purpose, design, and intent of the proposed regulation changes in order to make more comprehensive written comments. The workshop will be held on May 6, 2010 in Suite 896 of the Frontier Building, 3601 C Street, Anchorage, Alaska. Interested persons who are not able to attend the workshop in person may call in to present their comments by calling 1-800-315-6338, participant PIN code 2447. The hearing will be held from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Official public comment on the record will not be taken at this informational workshop, but will be accepted in writing.
If you are a person with a disability who needs a special accommodation in order to participate in this process, please contact Randall Schlapia at the address above or by phone at (907) 269-0478 no later than May 5, 2010 to ensure that any necessary accommodations can be provided.
For a copy of the proposed regulation changes, contact Randall Schlapia at the address above or go to the Department of Health and Social Services public notice website at: http://hss.state.ak.us/apps/publicnotice/regulations.aspx
After the public comment period ends, the Department of Health and Social Services will either adopt these or other provisions dealing with the same subject, without further notice, or decide to take no action on them. The language of the final regulations may be different from that of the proposed regulations. You should comment during the time allowed if your interests could be affected.
Statutory Authority: AS 47.05.010, AS 47.05.012, AS 47.07.030, AS 47.07.040,
AS 47.07.045.
Statutes Being Implemented, Interpreted, or Made Specific: AS 47.05.010, AS 47.05.012, AS 47.07.030, AS 47.07.040, AS 47.07.045.
Fiscal Information: It is estimated that the proposed regulation changes will increase annual aggregate expenditures and require increased appropriations as follows: FY11 $9,344,000; FY12 $18,340,000; FY13 $30,026,000.
Date: April 29, 2010
/s/William H. Hogan
Commissioner
Department of Health and Social Services
ADDITIONAL REGULATIONS NOTICE INFORMATION
(AS 44.62.190(d))
1. Adopting agency: Department of Health and Social Services
2. General subject of regulation: Medicaid home and community based waiver services and proposed cost survey forms and instructions.
3. Citation of regulation: 7 AAC 125, 7 AAC 130, 7 AAC 145, 7 AAC 160
4. Reason for the proposed action:
( ) compliance with federal law
( ) compliance with new or changed state statute
( ) compliance with court order
(X) development of program standards
( ) other: (please list)
5. RDU/component affected: Senior and Disability Services, Health Care Services
6. Cost of implementation to the state agency and available funding (in thousands of dollars): FY11 $9,344.1; FY12 $18,339.6; FY13 $30,025.6.
7. The name of the contact person for the regulations:
Randall Schlapia
Office of Rate Review
3601 C Street, Suite 978
Anchorage, AK, 99503
E-mail: randall.schlapia@alaska.gov
8. The origin of the proposed action:
__X__ staff of state agency
_____ federal government
_____ general public
_____ petition for regulation change
_____ other (please list)__________________
9. Date: April 29, 2010
Prepared by: Kurt West
Project Coordinator 907-465-3228
4/21/2010
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4/16/2010
The Arctic FASD Regional Training Center is pleased to announce Collaborative Conversations 2010, a two-day workshop focusing on primary prevention and secondary intervention strategies for FASD. Speakers include FASD experts from around Alaska and the United States.
When: Monday, May 24 and Tuesday, May 25
Where: University of Alaska Anchorage, Anchorage, Alaska
Attached is the workshop brochure, which includes a list of featured workshops and presenters, details regarding registration fees, and a link to a list of nearby accommodations.
Please note that there is a limit of 125 participants, so get registration forms in early to avoid disappointment!
More information is also available at www.uaa.alaska.edu/arcticfasdrtc. If you have questions please email arcticfasdrtc@uaa.alaska.edu, or call (907) 561-2880.
4/16/2010
Alaska Autism Summer Institute June 7th-11th 2010
Save the Date for the 2010 Alaska Autism Summer Institute, June 7th-11th 2010, at the University of Alaska Anchorage
This years Summer Institute offers two training tracks:
1) Early Intervention services for young children experiencing Autism Spectrum Disorder
2) Transition to Adulthood for Secondary Students with Autism Spectrum Disorders
Linda Heitzman-Powell, PhD, BCBA will present a hands on course detailing evidence based practices for working with young children who are experiencing Autism.
Dr. Carol Schall will present information on the transition to adulthood and how to assist individuals with ASD with learning how to gain and maintain community based employment.
Both speakers are leaders in the autism community and offer a great opportunity to expand your capabilities when working with families experiencing autism. This opportunity is offered free of charge with CUE's available through the University.
We will follow this announcement with more information on the week's agenda and registration.
Please feel free to contact philt@alaskachd.org or 907-952-6010 if you have questions or comments.
4/06/2010
New Medicaid Waiver Informational Brouchure
Senior and Disabilites Services (SDS) had produced a new Mediciad waiver informational brochure that provides Q & A about accessing a Mediaid waiver, outlines the home- and community-based services available and provides contact information.
The brochure is attached, and will also be available on the SDS web. Please feel free to use the brochure for clients and potential clients. Thank you.
4/05/2010
Alaska Walks for Autism
The Alaska Autism Resource Center is sponsoring the second annual “Alaska Walks for Autism” in Anchorage, Fairbanks, Juneau and Soldotna. See the attached flyer for more information.
4/05/2010
The Alaska Autism Program within the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services has expanded its Web site and produced public service announcements to raise awareness statewide about autism spectrum disorders. The attached document outlines activities planned statewide. Go to http://www.autism.alaska.gov for more information.
03/24/2010
New Assessment Unit Dedicated Fax Line
The SDS Assessment Unit now has a dedicated fax line: 907-269-6246.
Care coordinators and agencies – please send initial waiver screenings, medical certifications and initial plans of care to this number and discontinue use of the 269-3688 fax. Thank you.
03/23/2010
In support of Autism Awareness Month, the Alaska Autism Resource Center is sponsoring a series of trainings surrounding the topic of supporting communication in individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorders and related disabilities. The presentations will occur in Barrow, Fairbanks, Anchorage, Soldotna, Kodiak, and Ketchikan beginning March 29th. This is an excellent opportunity to receive free training in your area. Please see the attached flyer for details.
03/23/2010
New Training Schedule for April, May and June 2010 – Registration Now Available
New classes for April, May and June are available and open for registration:
Advanced Care Coordination: For Care Coordinators currently certified for 24 months or more only. Topics include but are not limited to: Care Coordination from the individual and family perspective, person centeredness, community resources, review of regulations, documentation, and providing Care Coordination in partnership with SDS. NEW: We are now offering Advanced Care Coordination as a series of 3 online live sessions, once per week for 3 weeks, via Go-To-Meeting.
Agency Based PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Agency Based PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. Required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Consumer Directed PCA Orientation: The basic requirements to apply for certification as a PCA service provider agency. Topics include service principles, service definitions, the definition of Consumer Directed PCA, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports. Required to apply for certification as a provider agency.
Basic Care Coordination: The basics of providing the service of the coordination of care. Topics include service principles, understanding the plan of care, and interfacing with SDS supports. NEW: We are now offering Basic Care Coordination as a series of 5 online live sessions, once per week for 5 weeks, via Go-To-Meeting.
Residential Supported Living in an Assisted Living Home: The basic requirements for providing residential service in an Assisted Living Home. Topics include service principles, service definitions, understanding a resident’s circle of care, responsibilities as a provider, and interfacing with SDS supports.
Critical Incident Reporting: Required training for certified provider(s) and agencies. How to recognize and report Critical Incidents, understanding Critical incident Improvement Plans. This class is currently offered online, consisting of live 1 session meetings, via Go-To-Meeting.
Class capacity for face to face classes is 20 registrants, and online live sessions, 25 registrants.
To register, download and fill out the attached registration form. Then send it as an attachment in an email to Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov.
Please email Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov with questions you may have about trainings available at Senior and Disabilities Services!
Thank you.
03/19/2010
NOTE:Quirarte Settlement Agreement Correction
An incomplete copy of the Quirarte Settlement was posted previously. The complete copy is attached. We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you.
The Department of Health & Social Services/Division of Senior & Disabilities Services recently reached settlement agreements in three separate legal cases. A copy of each settlement agreement is attached. Any questions may be directed to Joanne Gibbens, Deputy Director at joanne.gibbens@alaska.gov
03/15/2010
New Official Policies – Care Coordinator Training and Care Coordination Visit Waiver
New Provider Information Sharing Teleconferences
SDS has issued two new official policies, Care Coordinator Training and Care Coordination Visit Waiver.
The Care Coordinator Training policy outlines care coordination training requirements and describes the training process. For questions or more information, contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston at 269-3685 or Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov.
The Care Coordination Visit Waiver Policy clarifies the basis for waivers of required monthly care coordination visits to participants. For questions or more information, contact Sandy Sandusky at 269-3448 or Andy.Sandusky@alaska.gov.
To view these and other official SDS policies please got to the on-line SDS Policy Manual.
SDS “Information Sharing” Teleconference
SDS will begin hosting monthly information sharing provider teleconferences as an opportunity for open dialogue regarding SDS activities, program changes, and long-term care initiatives. The first meeting will be Thursday, March 25th, 10:00 – 11:00. Topics will include Q&A on these newly issued polices.
To reach the teleconference: 1-800-315-6338. Use pass code DSDS# (3737#).
03/12/2010
Draft Policies for Review – Eligibility and Enrollment for OA Waiver, APD Waiver and CCMC Waiver
Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) administers home and community-based Medicaid waivers for Adults with Physical Disabilities (APD), Older Alaskans (OA) and Children with Complex Medicaid Conditions (CCMC). The Division of Public Assistance (DPA) determines financial eligibility requirements, and SDS determines functional and other program eligibility requirements. The attached draft policies provide a standardized process for SDS program eligibility determinations and waiver enrollment, and delineate responsibilities for the process.
The draft policy on Eligibility and Enrollment for the MR/DD Medicaid waiver will be issued at a later date.
To comment, you may reply to this message or, go to the SDS web at the Policy Development Process and use the link provided.
We would appreciate receiving comments by April 12, 2010. Thank you.
03/10/2010
Critical Incident Reporting Web-based Training Schedule for April, May, and June 2010
SDS requires all Medicaid waiver service providers to receive training on Critical Incident Reporting and Critical Incident Improvement Plans. SDS will offer this training via “GoToMeeting” throughout April, May, and June 2010.
SDS assures the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) that recipients of Medicaid waiver services are safe and healthy in their homes and communities. Critical incident reporting by providers of waiver services is one important way of carrying out this mandate. In addition, the collection and aggregation of critical incident data by SDS allows the agency to track trends and identify gaps in services. In addition, critical incident reporting offers the opportunity for greater communication between providers and SDS as well as a channel for technical assistance.
Providers may train their staff. Provider agencies choose staff to attend the online training, and then may train additional staff at their own agency. All CIR/CIIP learning materials are available to participants upon request, after attending the online class, to use for this purpose.
Training schedule: All trainings will be held from 2:00 until 3:30pm
Tuesdays in April:
April 6
April 13
April 20
Tuesdays in May:
May 4
May 11
May 18
Tuesdays in June:
June 1
June 8
June 15
About GoTo Meeting
GoTo Meeting is very easy to use. Attendees will receive an email with instructions detailing how to join the meeting online, and a link to the scheduled meeting. To hear and speak during the class, attendees will need to use a computer headset with a microphone, or call in on the telephone and participate, much like a teleconference. Upon joining the meeting, everyone will be able to view the learning materials on their computer screen right at their desk.
All trainings will be from 2 until 3:30 pm. The first 5 minutes of each training will be used to get connected and make sure all attendees are online and can communicate with each other in the online training space.
How to register
If you are working with an agency, please communicate with your supervisor about your plan to register. All attendees may register by sending an email to Kara Thrasher-Livingston, SDS Training Specialist II at: Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov. Please state in the email the day you would like to attend. Each class can accommodate up to 24 attendees. You will receive a confirmation email inviting you to the GoTo Meeting. You may want to choose a second class that would work for you in case your first choice is full.
Thank you.
03/08/2010
Draft Policy on Mortality Review Process Available for Comment
Focused reviews of reports of death are an element of the Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) critical incident reporting and management system. SDS reviews and analyzes information submitted by providers in Critical Incident Reports to identify risk factors or unusual circumstances related to reported deaths and to determine whether SDS or provider agency action or inaction contributed to the deaths. This policy establishes a process for review of deaths of participants and delineates responsibilities for oversight and systems improvement.
To comment, you may reply to this message or, go to the SDS web at the Policy Development Process and use the link provided.
We would appreciate receiving comments by April 7, 2010. Thank you.
03/04/2010
Revised DRAFT Corrective Action Plan Submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services
The Division of Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS), in collaboration with technical assistance from National Quality Enterprise (NQE), resubmitted a revised Corrective Action Plan (CAP) to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on January 15, 2010. This plan was created in response to feedback received from CMS requesting additional information and clarification.
Revisions to this draft action plan are anticipated and will evolve from ongoing discussion between SDS, CMS, and NQE technical assistants. It would be premature to comment on specific components of this document while formal discussions with CMS are ongoing. SDS will provide updates on the web and via SDS E-Alerts as matters are resolved and formalized with CMS.
Providers and Medicaid recipients with questions may contact Angela Salerno at 465-4874, or angela.salerno@alaska.gov
03/03/2010
FREE LOGIC MODEL TRAINING AVAILABLE in ANCHORAGE !
Through collaborating efforts, the Department of Health and Social Services, Rasmuson Foundation, Mat-Su Health Foundation, and the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority, are pleased to offer FREE Logic Model Training to grantees, DHSS staff and other non-profit agencies who supports any form of health or social services for Alaska citizens.
Over the past two years DHSS has been restructuring its grant programs from programs that measures the number of client’s services or units of services provided, (Outputs) to ones that clearly identify whether or not services are impacting Alaska citizens. (Outcomes) Identifying outcomes and measuring the success of DHSS programs helps DHSS and its grantee partner’s better plan and coordinate future efforts of service delivery. This ensures all children, adult, senior/elder, and family are receiving the necessary services at the highest level possible.
Logic Model training takes 4 to 5 hours to complete, grantees and other non-profit organization wishing to received additional assistance are encouraged to bring their working/draft Logic Model to the training. If time remains after the training, trainers will be happy to provide additional assistance.
This FREE Logic Model training will be available in Anchorage at the following times and location:
- Anchorage - March 8, 2010, – 11:00 am – 4:30 pm
BP Energy Center
900 E. Benson Blvd
Alder/Cottonwood Conference Room
Anchorage, Alaska 99503
02/19/2010
Care Coordination Network Meeting
The next Care Coordination Network Meeting (CCNM) will be Wednesday February 24, 2010 at noon.
To reach the teleconference: Toll-Free Dial In#: 866-414-2828 Participant Code: 348814.
Organizers request that prior to the meeting, Care Coordinators fill out the previously discussed CCNM survey. For a copy of the 1/27/2010 CCNM meeting minutes and survey please contact Pat Lange at patricial@consumerdirectonline.net or Denise Shelton at aurorass@gci.net. Thank you.
02/19/2010
FAQs on Level of Care and Plan of Care Dates
On January 11th 2010, SDS released a Program Memo regarding “Level of Care Dates and Plan of Care Dates for Home and Community Based Waivers” (attached). On January 19th, 22nd and 29th, SDS held teleconferences to answer questions from care coordinators and other providers about the effect of the memo. As follow-up from those meetings, SDS has developed a list of “frequently asked questions” to further clarify memo implementation (attached).
You will find contacts for additional questions in the FAQ list. Thank you.
02/17/2010
YouSendIt- Encryption for File Transfer Privacy Going Live March 1, 2010
The Department of Health and Health and Social Services (DHSS) will now be using a platform for file transfer privacy called “YouSendIt” to transfer files which contain Electronic Protected Health Information (EPHI) and other sensitive data.
The YouSendIt secure file transfer solution provides an easy-to-use tool to encrypt files being sent and received which contain sensitive information, such as:
- EPHI (e.g. anything that associates a specific person with a type of treatment.)
- Personal Information, including name
- Social security numbers
- Any financial or benefits information
- Critical Incident Reports, Plans of Care and associated documents that are included in the Home Community Based Waivers, General Relief and Personal Care Assistance plans
- Any other documents that contain EPHI
Starting March 1, 2010 Senior and Disabilities Services (SDS) will begin sending email messages with attached documents containing sensitive information using YouSendIt. In order to receive encrypted email from SDS via YouSendIt using the DHSS account, you need to register for the DHSS YouSendIt account. It is free of charge.
You may use YouSendIt to send and receive sensitive documents to and from SDS. If your agency is already using a secure email file transfer method, such as but not limited to IronPort, you may continue to use that method to send sensitive documents to SDS. You may continue to fax documents containing sensitive information.
- To sign up for the DHSS YouSendIt account, just click on this link to register:
http://www.yousendit.com/multiuser_registration.php?
multiuser=true&admin=thor.ryan@alaska.gov .
Here is how YouSendIt works:
After you have created an account with YouSendIt, you will need to log in to send your encrypted email. The log in page looks like this:
After you log in, you can send an email using YouSendIt, filling out the address and subject line like you usually would. Please note: YouSendIt will ensure privacy of attachments only. It does not encrypt information in the subject line, or the actual body of your email message. Please make sure that your subject line and body of your message does not contain sensitive information. You would then use the browse button to find the file on your computer that you want to attach. Then you select “send” and your encrypted email is on its way.
Optional Training Available:
SDS is offering short online trainings on how to sign up for YouSendIt.
These trainings are optional and not required before signing up and using YouSendIt. They will be offered using Go-To-Meeting. Please email Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II with your preferred date of training, Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
YouSendIt Online Training schedule:
Feb 22, 24: 11:30am-12noon
March 2, 9, 16: 11:30am-12noon
If you have questions about YouSendIt:
After you register with YouSendIt, you may use the YouSendIt customer support link for questions about YouSendIt- http://www.yousendit.com/cms/support
If you have further questions, you may contact Kara Thrasher-Livingston, Training Specialist II, Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov
02/17/2010
Training Opportunity - Caring for the Diabetic in the Home Care Setting
Sponsored by the Alabama Dept. of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Thursday, February 18, 2010 from 9:00-10:00am Alaska Time over UATV channels.
In order to care properly for a diabetic patient at home, you must first understand diabetes. Knowing basic management skills and dietary needs for the disease can help prevent the need for emergency care, and the onset of long-term health problems. Program faculty will provide information you need to know in order to ensure your patient continues to thrive at home.
Target Audience: Home health aides, home attendants, other professionals, family, and other workers who provide care for diabetics in the home setting.
Participation and Registration for Alaska Public Health Training Network (APHTN):
Please visit the APHTN web page at http://www.chems.alaska.gov/phtn for the upcoming schedule of programs and register by clicking on the desired program. State employees can use state email to register, evaluate and print a certificate from the APHTN webpage. Registration for the programs is voluntary but vital for us to continue providing these services to the Alaskan communities.
Also, by clicking on the link http://jnumail17.state.ak.us/guest/RemoteListSummary/APHTN you can subscribe (or unsubscribe) to this APHTN weekly notification email. Please feel free to spread the word about this and other upcoming programs, shown every Thursday morning over UATV.
The Alaska Public Health Training Network, with support from GCI and other local cable TV distributors, is airing this taped program over cable television in the following communities:
Anchorage (Channel 12)
Barrow (Channel 55)
Bethel (Channel 43)
Cordova (Channel 12)
Craig (Channel 95)
Dillingham (Channel 11)
Eielson (Channel 6)
Fairbanks (Channel 6)
Haines (Channel 14)
Hoonah (Channel 34)
Juneau (Channel 11)
Kenai (Channel 2)
Ketchikan (Channel 16)
Kodiak (Channel 19)
Kotzebue (Channel 98)
Nome (Channel 98)
North Pole (Channel 6)
Petersburg (Channel 22)
Seward (Channel 16)
Sitka (Channel 11)
Unalaska (Channel 37)
Valdez (Channel 20)
Ft. Wainwright (Channel 6)
Wasilla (Channel 12)
Wrangell (Channel 7)
Please let me know of any changes in channel numbers. Please call your local cable distributor immediately for any interruptions of the signal, and request them to carry this program in your community. It can also be viewed at Kenai, Tok, and Delta Junction Public Health Centers via satellite dish.
UATV is an MPEG2DVB digitally encoded "Free To Air" signal located on the AMC-8 satellite at 139 degrees west. Please feel free to contact Jim Gage at jim.gage@uas.alaska.edu or (907) 796-6463 for any signal-related questions. You may also watch this program online at http://uatv.alaska.edu In Juneau viewers can watch the broadcast from Conference Room 519 of the Alaska Office Building.
Continuing Education Credits: None for this program
02/09/2010
Training Opportunity - The Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Interventions
On Friday, February 19, 2010, 11:30 to 1:00, Amanda Biggs Sandlin will present The Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: Pharmacological and Non-pharmacological Interventions.
The training will be held on the UAA Campus/Rasmuson Hall Room 207B (Building #5 on attached map). Parking on campus if free on Fridays.
Attendees to Amanda’s presentation will be eligible for a Certificate of Attendance noting 1.5 hours of training.
During this presentation, Amanda will discuss both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions and/or treatments for Alzheimer’s disease as well as ways to keep brains healthy to reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
The presentation will be available telephonically. Please dial 1-800-570-3591, follow the prompt to enter Participant PIN 8105559. Music will play until the host dials in, please hold until you hear the host’s greeting.
For those of you attending the presentation on campus you are welcome to bring a brown bag lunch. If you would like to purchase lunch on campus the Cuddy Dining Hall located next to Rasmuson Hall (see attached map) offers a variety of food in their cafeteria and the coffee bar features Raven’s Brew coffee. We will provide assorted snacks.
You can learn more about how the brain works and how Alzheimer’s affects it by viewing the Alzheimer’s Association interactive brain tour on their website: “Inside the Brain: An Interactive Tour” http://www.alz.org/alzheimers_disease_4719.asp
The Mind Alert Series is strongly recommended as a resource for learning more about Alzheimer’s, please click on the following link to view the series:
http://www.asaging.org/asav2/mindalert/lectures.cfm
If you are planning to attend the presentation either in person or telephonically, please RSVP by replying to Suzanne Dvorak, Field Education Assistant UAA School of Social Work at suzanne@uaa.alaska.edu .
02/05/2010
Attention Care Coordinators Faxing Documents to SDS
To ensure that waiver-related documents faxed to SDS arrive in the correct unit for processing, please use fax number 269-3639. Thank you.
02/03/2010
Nominations for Outstanding Direct Service Professional
Do you know an outstanding Direct Service Professional (DSP)?
Would you like to nominate that person for an award?
(to be presented at the 2010 Full Lives Conference on April 15)
Do you think the DSP would be happy to:
- be acknowledged as an outstanding person in their field?
- receive a check for $1,000 for personal or professional development?
- go to the 2010 Full Lives Conference this year (including free registration and travel expenses as needed)?
- AND receive a free registration for the 2011 Full Lives Conference?
- Then please consider nominating someone for the award!
There are FIVE Fields that a person can be nominated in:- Working with people with developmental disabilities;
- Working with the elderly, especially people with dementia or Alzheimer's Disease;
- Working with people with mental illness;
- Working with people with substance abuse issues; and
- Working with people with traumatic brain injuries.
- The deadline to submit a nomination is February 26, 2010! So get your nominations in now!
- Nomination Form
1/27/2010
Critical Incident Reporting Training Schedule for February & March 2010
SDS requires all Medicaid waiver service providers to receive training on Critical Incident Reporting and Critical Incident Improvement Plans. SDS will offer this training via “GoTo Meeting” throughout February and March 2010.
SDS assures the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) that recipients of Medicaid waiver services are safe and healthy in their homes and communities. Critical incident reporting by providers of waiver services is one important way of carrying out this mandate. In addition, the collection and aggregation of critical incident data by SDS allows the agency to track trends and identify gaps in services. In addition, critical incident reporting offers the opportunity for greater communication between providers and SDS as well as a channel for technical assistance.
Providers may train their staff. Provider agencies may choose staff to attend the online training, and then may train additional staff at their own agency. All CIR/CIIP learning materials are available to participants upon request, after attending the online class, to use for this purpose.
Training schedule: All trainings will be held from 2:00 until 3:30pm
Each Tuesday in February
February 2
February 9
February 16
February 23
Mondays in March
March 1
March 8
March 15
March 22
About GoTo Meeting
GoTo Meeting is very easy to use. Attendees will receive an email with instructions detailing how to join the meeting online, and a link to the scheduled meeting. To hear and speak during the class, attendees will need to use a computer headset with a microphone, or call in on the telephone and participate, much like a teleconference. Upon joining the meeting, everyone will be able to view the learning materials on their computer screen right at their desk.
All trainings will be from 2 until 3:30 pm. The first 5 minutes of each training will be used to get connected and make sure all attendees are online and can communicate with each other in the online training space.
How to register
If you are working with an agency, please communicate with your supervisor about your plan to register. All attendees may register by sending an email to Kara Thrasher-Livingston, SDS Training Specialist II at: Kara.Thrasher-Livingston@alaska.gov.
Please state in the email the day you would like to attend. Each class can accommodate up to 24 attendees. You will receive a confirmation email inviting you to the GoTo Meeting. You may want to choose a second class that would work for you in case your first choice is full.
Thank you.
01/25/2010
5th Annual Serving Offenders with Cognitive Impairments Conference
REGISTER ONLINE TODAY for the 5th Annual Serving Offenders with Cognitive Impairments: Transitioning into the Community
GO TO: www.regonline.com/serving_offenders_conference
The Center for Human Development in partnership with the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority is pleased announce the 5th Annual Serving Offenders with Cognitive Impairments Conference! Two nationally recognized experts will provide tools and techniques on how to best support criminally and sexually at-risk individuals who experience cognitive impairments in the community. This conference is for community providers currently working with (or would like to serve) offenders who experience cognitive impairments. This includes, but is not limited to:
Mental Health Therapists
Community Case Managers
Community Program Managers or Directors
Probation or Parole Officers
Date, Time, and Content:
Two tracks will be provided for participants. Participants are encouraged to attend the track that best meets their training needs or attend both for a well-rounded experience!
Monday, March 15, 2010 (8:00am-5:00pm)
Intermediate Track
Dr. Patricia Zapf, PhD will provide sessions that geared for participants who are currently working with offenders with cognitive impairments interested in learning how various organic and acquired disabilities impact criminal behavior. These sessions are tailored to help participants identify disability-related behaviors that may impede an person’s ability to successfully comply with treatment plans and provide strategies that best supports the offender’s natural skill sets to decrease recidivism.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010 (8:00am-5:00pm)
Advanced Track
James Haaven will provide sessions that are for participants who are currently providing clinical case-management and therapeutic services to offenders with cognitive impairments in the community. This session requires that the participants have extensive knowledge and experience working with offenders with various cognitive impairments to best understand the content provided. Participants will leave the conference with information as to what best practice model is most beneficial when working with specific organic disabilities and to access those models to further their own treatment and assessment skills.
Location:
Sheraton Anchorage Hotel
401 East 6th Avenue
Anchorage, Alaska 99501
We have a group rate set for this event at $89/night for double occupancy room. Please go to Offender_Conference10_Sheraton to be eligible for the room rate.
Cost*:
$35 for one day or $50 for two days (networking lunch included on each day)
*Registration waivers available to the Disability Justice Initiative Strategy 5 Workgroup partner agency staff. This includes staff from Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority; State of Alaska's DOC, DJJ, DBH, GCDSE, Alaska Commission on Aging, Alaska Court System; and Center for Psychosocial Development.
Scholarships Available:
The Disability Law Center of Alaska in support of this conference will have 30 training scholarships up to $500/eligible participant who reside outside of the Anchorage/Mat-Su area (in-state Alaskan service providers only eligible). Limited two scholarships per agency. Please do not contact DLC, as these will be determined through the online registration.
National Presenter's Bio:
Dr. Patricia Zapf PhD is currently Associate Professor in the Department of Psychology at John Jay College of Criminal Justice, the City University of New York. She is the Editor of the American Psychology-Law Society Book Series, the Associate Editor of the Encyclopedia of Psychology and Law and an Associate Editor of Law and Human Behavior. She was appointed Fellow of the American Psychological Association in 2006 for outstanding contributions to the field of psychology and law. She has published over 60 articles and chapters, mainly on the assessment of criminal competencies. She is author of the Suicide Assessment Manual for Inmates (SAMI) and the Fitness Interview Test – Revised (FIT-R), as well as Oxford’s Best Practices in Forensic Mental Health Assessment: Evaluation of Competency to Stand Trial. In addition to her research and publishing, she serves as a consultant to various criminal justice and policy organizations and maintains a private practice in forensic assessment. She received her doctoral degree in clinical forensic psychology from Simon Fraser University in Canada in 1999.
James Haaven is a consultant in private practice and trainer in the field of assessment, treatment and program development of sexual offending behavior of persons with developmental disabilities. He has 33 years of experience in working with persons with sexual offending behavior and 28 of those years exclusively with persons with developmental disabilities. During that time he was the director of the Social Skills Unit and the Social Rehabilitation Unit at Oregon State Hospital in Salem, Oregon. Mr. Haaven provides consultation and training for this population throughout the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Over the past eight years Mr. Haaven has been providing consultation and training to Her Majesty Prison Services in their Adapted Sex Offender Program. He has provided consultation for sexually violent predator programs, development of community transition programs and statewide delivery systems for sex offender services for this population. He has co-authored chapters of books in the areas of treatment theory, risk assessment, treatment, community transition and program development. Mr. Haaven is the lead author of the book Treating Intellectually Disabled Sex Offenders: A Model Residential Program. Mr. Haaven was the 2009 4th Annual Serving Offenders with Cognitive Impairments Conference advanced track speaker and is currently providing ongoing training via distance-delivery for interested Alaskan clinical providers on how to utilize the ARMIDILO Assessment in their day-to-day work.
For more information or to request a reasonable accommodation to fully participate, please contact Christine King at (907) 264-6241, toll-free at 1 800 243-2199 x241, or by email at anckk@uaa.alaska.edu.
REGISTER TODAY!!
GO TO: www.regonline.com/serving_offenders_conference
This event is sponsored by grant funds provided by the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority in partnership with the Center for Human Development/UAA to help increase the capacity for communities to serve Trust Beneficiaries who are Offenders to reduce recidivism and promote safe and healthy Alaskan communities.
01/11/2010
SDS E-Alert – Waiver Level of Care and Plan of Care Program Memo
SDS has issues a Program Memo (attached) outlining rule changes surrounding waiver level of care (LOC) and plan of care (POC) dates. For specific questions about a level of care for the MRDD waiver or a plan of care for any of the four waivers, please contact Lynn Keilman-Cruz at 269-5606 or lynn.keilman-cruz@alaska.gov . For specific questions about a level of care for OA, APD or CCMC waivers, please contact Leanna Rein at 269-3604 or leanna.rein@alaska.gov .
Program Memo- Waiver LOC & POC
01/11/2010
Webinar on 2009 H1N1 Influenza and its Impact on People with Chronic Medical Conditions
It's National Influenza Vaccination Week!
January 10-16 is National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW). NIVW was established to highlight the importance of continuing influenza vaccination, as well as fostering greater use of flu vaccine after the holiday season.
Since 2009 H1N1 disease is likely to continue, NIVW is an important opportunity to maintain or increase the number of people who get the 2009 H1N1 vaccine at a time when demand for vaccine usually drops significantly. Though this has been an unprecedented year in terms of the number of people who have received flu vaccinations, most people still have not gotten the 2009 H1N1 vaccine - there is still room for improvement among every age and risk group. Influenza is unpredictable and we do not know the likelihood of a future wave of 2009 H1N1 influenza, but we do know that vaccination is the single best way to reduce the health impact of influenza. To learn more about NIVW, visit the NIVW website.
You Are Invited: Webinar on 2009 H1N1 Influenza and its Impact on People with Chronic Medical Conditions
Tuesday, Jan 12, 2010. 2:30-3:30 PM (EST)
Presented by: The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, CDC, the American Cancer Society; American Diabetes Association and American Lung Association
The speakers for this event include:
- Nicole Lurie, MD, MSPH, Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
- Anthony Fiore MD, MPH, Medical Epidemiologist, Influenza Division, CDC
- Otis Webb Brawley, M.D. - Chief Medical and Scientific Officer of the American Cancer Society
- Christine Tobin - American Diabetes Association's President of Health Care and Education
- Mary Partridge, Chair, American Lung Association
A question and answer session will follow brief presentations by each of the speakers.
Dial into this phone number: 1-800-857-4785, passcode: 9335569
And click on this link to connect to the webinar https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/orau1/join?id=4D94BQ&role=attend&pw
=7%60%5DtHXpgC
FIRST-TIME USERS
To save time before the meeting, check your system to make sure it is ready to use Microsoft Office Live Meeting.
http://go.microsoft.com/fwlink/?LinkId=90703
TROUBLESHOOTING
Unable to join the meeting? Follow these steps:
1. Copy this address and paste it into your web browser:
https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/orau1/join
2. Copy and paste the required information:
Meeting ID: 4D94BQ
Entry Code: 7`]tHXpgC
Location: https://www.livemeeting.com/cc/orau1
If you still cannot enter the meeting, contact support:
http://r.office.microsoft.com/r/rlidLiveMeeting?p1=12&p2=en_US&p3=LMInfo&p4=support
3. For telephone problems during the webinar call: 404-553-8125
01/05/2010
SDS continues to pilot “You-Send-It,” a web-based password protected HIPAA compliant email program. Among other documents, SDS sends approved plans of care to care coordinators using this system. If you don’t already have an account, feel free to use the link below to establish one. We encourage you to establish your account through this specific link since it is state sponsored and therefore has unlimited & free use for receiving and/or sending HIPAA compliant documentation. If you have any questions or concerns, you can contact our Documents Distribution Supervisor, Jim Hughes at (907) 269-3687 or email james.hughes@alaska.gov.
http://www.yousendit.com/multiuser_registration.php?
multiuser=true&admin=thor.ryan@alaska.gov
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