SCOPE Administrative Entity Administrators/Directors Supports Coordination Entity Directors Providers of Mental Retardation Services PURPOSE: The purpose of this bulletin is to distribute new service definitions to reflect changes made as a result of the renewal of the Consolidated Waiver. These changes include service additions, the consolidation of some services, and the separation of others. The bulletin also includes a new unit for licensed day services. BACKGROUND On December 31, 2003, in preparation for HCSIS/PROMISe billing, the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) disseminated service definitions under MR Bulletin 00- 03-12, entitled "Service Definitions and Procedure Codes for Healthcare and Non- Healthcare Waiver and Base Services". The healthcare related codes were updated on September 3, 2004, under MR Bulletin 00-04-10, entitled "Service Definitions and Procedure Codes for Healthcare Waiver and Base Services". ODP revised the service definitions effective July 1, 2006, to include one rate per service to facilitate standardized rate setting. These revised service definitions were published under MR Bulletin 00-06-04, "Revised Units for Service Definitionsl'. On December 23, 2006, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) approved the renewal of the Consolidated Waiver. The approved renewal application included some revisions to previous waiver service definitions, and they are reflected in this bulletin. These changes include the addition of personal support services for people who are self-directing their waiver services; the separation of several services from the habilitation definition, including homemaker/chore, home finding, adaptive appliances/equipment, and education support services; and the combination of job support and job finding into one service--namely, Supported Employment-job Finding/job Support. Please note that the waiver-related service definition changes for the Consolidated Waiver are effective with its renewal on December 23, 2006; however, individual support plans impacted by the changes do not need to be changed until the 2007/2008 fiscal year. The only exception to this effective date is the changes in the payment for the administrative costs of Intermediary Service Organizations. This change is effective December 23, 2006, for all waiver participants and all impacted individual support plans. A summary of the specific service definition changes reflected in this bulletin are listed below: o The unit for licensed Day Habilitation Services -Adult Training Facilities (Title 55, Chapter 2380) has been changed to 15 minutes o The unit for licensed Day Habilitation Services -Older Adult Day Service (Title 6, Chapter 11) has been changed to 15 minutes. o The unit for Prevocational Services (Title 55, Chapter 2390) has been changed to 15 minutes. o JCAHO Accredited/MA Certified Non-Residential Agencies Providing Community Habilitation has been deleted as an eligible service. o Personal Support Services has been added as an eligible service under transaction code W7096. o Supported Employment Services has been combined as Job Finding/Job Support under transaction code W7235. o Habilitation Supplies has been deleted as an eligible service. o Permanency Planning Services has been added as an eligible service under transaction code W7281. o Homemaker and Chore Services have been combined under one service called Homemaker/Chore under transaction code W7283. o Career Education has been renamed Education Support Services, which is still under transaction code W7284. A new service entitled Support (Medical Environment) has been added to allow habilitation in medical environments through non-waiver funding under transaction codes W7305 -W7309. o The funding column for Intermediary Service Organization (ISO), Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent has been changed to reflect that waiver service funds may not be used to pay for this service. o The funding column for Intermediary Service Organization (ISO), Agency with Choice has been changed to reflect that waiver service funds may not be used to pay for this service. DISCUSSION: The attached service definitions chart and narrative reflects the current definitions for services. As with previous versions of the service definition bulletins, the appropriate modifiers must be billed with the corresponding codes, in the order specified. All Administrative Entities and providers who are billing for waiver and base healthcare services through HCSIS/PROMISe must continue to use the local ("W" codes) and national healthcare codes ("T” codes) specified in the attachment for claims to be processed through HCSIS/PROMISe. Electronic billers must use these codes to be in compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). All Administrative Entities and providers must begin to use the attached local and national codes effective July 1, 2007. Attachments: Attachment 1- Consolidated Waiver, Person/family Directed Support Waiver and Base funded Services Definitions Attachment 2- Consolidated Waiver, Person/family Directed Support Waiver and Base Funded Services Definitions Narrative Obsolete Bulletin (effective July 1, 2007): 00-06-04, Revised Units for Service Definitions TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I: INTRODUCTION…………………………………………………… 3 SECTION II: PHILADELPHIA MENTAL RETARDATION SERVICES (MRS) A. Who Are We?………………………………………………………….……… 6 B. Who To Call If You Have Questions..………………………………………... 8 C. If You Are Registering for MR Services……………………………………. 10 D. Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) Contacts and Descriptions……... 12 E. Waiting Lists and PUNS……………………………………………………… 21 F. Waiver Services………………………………………………………………. G. Right To a Fair Hearing………………………………………………………. 22 29 SECTION III: QUALITY: IT’S EVERYONE’S BUSINESS A. Independent Monitoring for Quality, and Everyone Communicates!….……. 32 B. Philadelphia Quality Management Initiative...……………………………….. 33 C. Questions Individuals and Families Should Ask a Service Provider…..…….. 34 D. Your Personal Outcomes...…………………………………………………… 36 E. Lifesharing – A Fully Inclusive Option…………………………………….… F. Vision for Employment 2010………………………………………………… 38 39 SECTION IV: COMMUNITY RESOURCES…………………………………….. 47 SECTION V: SERVICE PROVIDER DESCRIPTIONS………………………... 61 SECTION VI: APPENDIX A. MRS Staff - Telephone and Fax numbers…………………………………… 162 B. PA Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) – Contact Information……… C. Commonly Used Acronyms ………………………………………………… 163 164 SECTION VII: SERVICE DEFINITIONS A. Fair Hearing Forms………………………………………………….………. 169 B. MR Bulletin: Service Definitions…………………………………………… 175 Section I: INTRODUCTION Welcome to the Fiscal Year 2007-2008 MRS Directory of Services and Supports for people with mental retardation in Philadelphia. The purpose of this comprehensive directory is to assist people with disabilities, their families, and professionals working in the field to identify and use services and supports from the system, as well as identifying community resources and natural supports. The directory contains descriptions of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) mental retardation service system, as administered by Philadelphia MRS; its service providers; community resources and other important information. Also included as a separate attachment to this directory (Section VII) is the ODP Bulletin that details revised Service Definitions, effective July 1, 2007. MRS is committed to assuring quality services. “Quality: It’s Everyone’s Business” is the tagline that puts the focus on various initiatives and efforts to measure quality, and it’s also the title of the section describing those initiatives and ways to get and use information when choosing from among service providers. It describes Philadelphia’s commitment to Quality through the Quality Management Process and Independent Monitoring for Quality. It also includes information developed by the Council on Quality and Leadership, including Personal Outcomes Measures. The Questions about Quality are intended to help individuals and families determine what is important in their life, and questions to consider when exploring prospective services and providers. Information about service providers in this directory has been provided directly by the service provider. For additional information, please contact a service provider directly or check their website. On our websites, www.phila.gov/dbhmrs and www.philly.networkofcare.org you will find links to other services and resources in the community. The PA Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has a statewide Services and Supports Directory of providers that is available via the Internet at https://www.hcsis.state.pa.us. Be sure to check out a new section in this directory, “Community Resources”, that contains lots of useful information about how to get involved in your community. There are tips on how to increase your ‘social capital,’ a look at Vision for Employment 2010 and how employment is an important piece of an ‘everyday life,’ informative websites, and lots of other community resources and information. The Appendix (Section VI) contains additional helpful information, including a complete listing of telephone numbers for MRS Staff, ODP contact information and commonly used acronyms. Fair Hearing Forms and the current Service Definitions are in Section VII. We hope you find this information valuable. Please let us know any comments you have, and any other resources you would like to see in this directory or on the websites. Contact Jeffrey Orlin, Executive Assistant, 215-685-5911 or jeffrey.orlin@phila.gov. November, 2007 Section II: PHILADELPHIA MENTAL RETARDATION SERVICES (MRS) II-A Philadelphia MRS - Who Are We? Created under the Pennsylvania Mental Health and Mental Retardation Act of 1966, Philadelphia Mental Retardation Services (MRS) is responsible for planning, administering, monitoring and coordinating services for people with mental retardation. In Fiscal Year 2007, through contract agencies, we provided services for more than 12,000 individuals and their families through an annual expenditure of $280 million dollars. These services are reimbursed primarily through a state and federal program known as the Medicaid Waiver, and through a smaller state grants program requiring a local match. Today, the Commonwealth is changing from a county-managed system to a standardized statewide system; by implementing these changes, the primary benefits to individuals and families will be standard policies and practices across the Commonwealth promoting individual choice, consistency of operations, access to services and accountability for quality service outcomes. The Mission of Mental Retardation Services is to create, promote, and enhance the supports and services available to individuals with mental retardation. Individuals will have access to quality supports and services that foster: * Choices in their everyday lives, * Meaningful personal relationships with friends, family, neighbors, * Presence and participation in their communities, and * Dignity and respect as valued citizens of Philadelphia. The City’s Department of Behavioral Health and Mental Retardation Services (DBH/MRS) is considered to be an ‘Administrative Entity’ (AE), contractually obligated to the Commonwealth to conduct the “business” of the service system in Philadelphia. In order to accomplish this mission, MRS contracts directly with 70 agencies, in addition to other vendors and service providers, to provide a broad range of supports and services that include supports coordination (formerly known as case management), early intervention services, in-home supports and respite services, employment and adult day services, and community living and Lifesharing (family living) services. Through quality services and supports, the goal of MRS, and its service providers, is to support people with mental retardation to find jobs and homes of their choosing; access quality medical care; have an appropriate educational program; enjoy Philadelphia’s many cultural opportunities; join with neighbors in town watch and community gardening; be welcomed by faith communities; learn computer skills; take classes at local colleges; use assistive technology; and vote...in other words, to be valued members of their community leading an “Everyday Life.” MRS Today – A New Way of Doing Business In 2005, in response to a review by the federal government’s Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) of Pennsylvania’s administration of the Consolidated Waiver, the Commonwealth Office of Mental Retardation (now called the Office of Developmental Programs - ODP) initiated a number of significant changes in the way “business” is conduct-ed in the service system, in order to comply with the requirements of CMS as a condition of renewing the Waiver, which funds virtually the entire community service system. Among the more significant changes include entering all Individual Support Plans into HCSIS, approving those plans and authorizing services on a fiscal year basis, negotiating rates for units of service, and providers billing directly for services through PROMISe, the Commonwealth’s Medicaid reimbursement system. In addition, as a condition of performing as an AE, MRS is obligated to comply with the requirements of ODP’s AE Oversight Monitoring process. Activities Include: * Completing centralized citywide registration and eligibility determination for individuals seeking services through the mental retardation system. * Working in partnership with more than 12,000 individuals and their families to assist in supporting individuals to have the services they need. * Administering services and supports through 70 contract agencies to: o Nearly 5,000 children and families using early intervention services, o 2,500 people living at home and using employment and day services, community resources, family support services, respite care, therapies, social and recreational services, and o 1,740 people living in supervised residential homes in the community. * Collaborating with the education, health, and child welfare systems to serve children from birth to 21 years. * Collaborating with the vocational rehabilitation, aging and health service systems to serve adults. * Direct responsibility for provision of court ordered supports coordination for 450 individuals living in the community who are Embreeville and Pennhurst class members. * Identifying and planning for the needs of 3,000 individuals living at home who are on waiting lists for employment, day, residential or support services. * Monitoring to ensure a focus on Quality Management and accountability for service outcomes. II-B If You Have Questions Or Concerns About: Call: Registration Information and Reception (215) 685-4677 (215) 685-5900 Registration Robin Brown, Supervisor 215-685-4637 Mental Retardation Diagnosis, Behavior Intervention, OBRA Beth Gilman, Psychologist (215) 685-4629 Registration and Individual Supports Elayne Blender, Acting Manager (215) 685-5997 Individual Supports Connie Falcone, Supervisor (215) 685-5998 Early Intervention/Children’s Unit Denise Taylor Patterson, Manager (215) 685-5905 Early Intervention (Ages 0-3) Sharon Burke, Supervisor (215) 685-5941 Community Residential, Employment and Day Services Helga Krauss, Manager (215) 685-5904 Community Residential, Employment and Day Services Teresa Myers, Supervisor (215) 685-5924 Community Residential, Employment and Day Services Lynette McMillan, Supervisor (215) 685-5929 Emergencies and Referrals – Residential, Employment and Day Services Kathy Harte, Supervisor (215) 685-5947 Risk Management/Incident Reporting And Quality Management Deborah Cackowski, Manager (215) 685-5940 Risk Management/Incident Reporting Mike Kennedy, Supervisor (215) 685-5983 Incident Management Karen Kenny, Supervisor (215) 685-5977 Clinical, Forensic/Legal and Data Related Issues Paul Spangler, Ph.D., Manager (215) 685-5939 Public Awareness, Public Information Judy Kresloff, Supervisor (215) 685-5923 Waiver and Financial Management Eugene McCauley, Manager (215) 685-5938 If You Have Questions Or Concerns About: Call: Waiver Services Fran Rementer, Supervisor (215) 685-5969 P/FDS Waiver Elaine Thilo, Supervisor (215) 685-5974 ISP Approvals Kevin Aleem, Supervisor (215) 685-5957 Rate Setting and Claims Resolution Linda Flood, Supervisor (215) 685-5968 Training and Technical Assistance Karen Claiborne-Pride, Administrator (215) 685-5937 Planning, Older Adults Diane Lackey, Manager (215) 685-5994 Court-Ordered Supports Coordination Gail Harrison, Manager (215) 685-4680 Embreeville Supports Coordination Leslie Harmon-Coker, Supervisor (215) 685-4681 Pennhurst Supports Coordination Charles Cornman, Supervisor (215) 685-4654 Stephen Mandell, Supervisor (215) 685-4685 Thomas Owens, Supervisor (215) 685-4678 ICF/MR Supports Coordination William L. Mills, Supervisor (215) 685-4679 HCSIS Management Liat Richardson-Owens, Supervisor (215) 685-5912 Director of Operations, MRS Larry Pace Call Miriam Muhammad (215) 685-5917 Director, Mental Retardation Services Kathy L. Sykes Call Gertrude Wilt (215) 685-5914 Jeffrey Orlin, Exec. Assistant (215) 685-5911 A complete listing of all MRS staff is found in Section VI, Appendix A. II-C If You Are Registering for Mental Retardation Services Individuals New to the System If you were never registered for services, or if you are coming from the public school system, children’s services such as the Department of Human Services (DHS), or a nursing home, you may be eligible to register for mental retardation services. Who is Eligible? To be eligible to receive mental retardation services and supports, you must: * Have an IQ score of 70 or below * Have documentation that you had mental retardation before your 22nd birthday * Have significant limitations in at least three areas of daily living, including communication, self-care, home living, social/interpersonal skills, self-direction, academic skills, work, leisure, health and safety * Be a legal resident of Pennsylvania. How Do You Get Mental Retardation Services? Call the Philadelphia MRS Registration Unit at 215-685-4MRS (215-685-4677) to make an appointment with a Registration Specialist, or visit Compass at www.dpw.state.pa.us. What to Bring to the Appointment The individual requesting services and his/her family member or friend, should come to the registration appointment with the following information: * Personal Identification * A current psychological evaluation * Consumer’s financial information: benefit award letter, copies of pay stubs, life insurance policies, burial reserve accounts, checking or savings accounts statements You will meet once or twice with a Mental Retardation Services (MRS) Registration Specialist who will determine your eligibility for services. If you are not receiving Medical Assistance and are eligible, the Registration Specialist will help you enroll. If You Are Eligible for Mental Retardation Services The Registration Specialist will look at your needs and resources, help you begin developing a plan, discuss services and make a referral to a Supports Coordination Organization (SCO). He or she will complete forms including: * The PUNS form (See Section II-E for more information) * Application for waiver services * Social Summary If all the information is complete in this process known as Service Preference, you will receive a letter within 45 days notifying you of your eligibility determination for the waiver, the availability of funding for services, and your rights including the mediation and appeal process. (Refer to Section II-G and VII-A for more information). You will be given a choice of available Supports Coordination Organizations (SCO). Those SCO’s are listed in Section II-D for your reference, along with a description of each organization. If You are Requesting Services There is a waiting list for Waiver Services. Your Supports Coordinator will work with you to find other resources in the community while you wait for mental retardation services. You may also want to learn more about the service you are requesting. You can learn about the providers offering the specific services and supports. Refer to Sections III-C and D to help you ask questions when considering a service provider. If You are not Eligible for Mental Retardation Services If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for mental retardation services, the Registration Specialist will give you suggestions for appropriate community resources. Also, see Section IV for an expanded list of community resources. II-D Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) Contacts & Descriptions ChildLink/Philadelphia Health Management Corporation (birth – 2) 260 S. Broad Street, 18th floor Philadelphia, PA 19106 Web Address: www.phmc.org Michael Moore, Vice President, Individual And Family Supports and Services Phone: 215-731-2103 Email: mike@phmc.org Sara Molina-Robinson, Deputy Director Phone: 215-731-2100 Email: sara@phmc.org The Consortium 5828 B Market Street Philadelphia, PA 19139 Main Phone: 215-472-1707 Shirley Carroll, Program Director Phone: 215-472-1707, ext 1101 Email: vwilliams@consortium-inc.org Shana Wimmer, Unit Manager Phone: 215-472-1707, ext 1110 Email: swimmer@consortium-inc.org Darlene Gonzalez, Consumer Support Budget Specialist / FDSS Coordinator Phone: 215-472-1707, ext 1162 Email: dgonzalez@consortium-inc.org Hall Mercer MH/MR Center of Pennsylvania Hospital 8th & Spruce Streets Philadelphia, PA 19107 Phone: 215-829-3461 Private Licensed Facilities Michele Donahue Phone: 215-829-7657 Email: donahuem@pahosp.com OBRA (Nursing Homes) Theresa Pettaway Phone: 215-829-5709 Email: pettawat@pahosp.com Emergency Intensive Supports Adrienne Harmon Phone: 215-829-5709 Email: harmona@pahosp.com Partnership for Community Supports 9350 Ashton Road, Suite 102 Philadelphia, PA 19114-3464 Main Phone: 267-350-4500 Carol Frangicetto, Executive Director Phone: 267-350-4539 Email: cfrangicetto@pfcsupports.org Helen Falguera, Program Director Phone: 267-350-4718 Email: hfalguera@pfcsupports.org Rachel Cunningham, Unit Manager Phone: 267-350-4519 Email: rcunningham@pfcsupports.org Mary MacAvoy, Resource Manager Phone: 267-359-4513 Email: mmacavoy@pfcsupports.org PersonLink-SC Program Office 260 S. Broad Street, 8th Fl. Philadelphia, PA 19106 267-295-3800 Eileen Keenan, Program Director Phone: 267-297-3801 Email: Eileen@phmc.org Jackie Cartagena, Unit Manager Phone: 267-295-3800 Email: jcartagena@phmc.org Betty Harrigan, FDSS Coordinator Phone: 267-295-3800 Email: eharrigan@phmc.org Philadelphia MRS 701 Market Street, 5th fl., Suite 5200 Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 Main Phone: 215-685-5900 Court Ordered Supports Coordination Gail Harrison, Director Phone: 215-685-4680a Email: gail.harrison@phila.gov ICF/MR Supports Coordination William Mills Phone: 215-685-4679 Email: william.mills@phila.gov Registration Robin M. Brown Phone: 215-685-4637 Email: robin.m.brown@phila.gov Quality Progressions 125 South 9th Street, Suite 400 Philadelphia, PA 19107 Phone: 267-765-2000 Joel Goldberg, Executive Director Phone: 276-765-2001 Email: jgoldberg@qualityprogressions.org Adrienne Hill, Program Director Phone: 267-765-2002 Email: ahill@qualityprogressions.org Randy Kester, Unit Manager Phone: 267-765-2003 Email: rkester@qualityprogressions.org Sue Fellows, FDSS & Resource Supervisor Phone: 267-765-2000 Email: sfellows@qualityprogressions.org ChildLink/Philadelphia Health Management Corporation 260 South Broad Street, 18th floor, Philadelphia, PA 19102 Intake/Registration: 215-731-2110 Information: 215-731-2100 Internet: www.phmc.org Contact Person: Sara Molina-Robinson, Deputy Program Director Telephone: 215-731-2139 E-mail: Sara@phmc.org Vice President/Program Director: Michael Moore Telephone: 215-731-2103 Email: Mike@phmc.org Description of Service Provider ChildLink provides Service Coordination to families in Philadelphia who have children from birth to age three with a developmental delay or disability. ChildLink staff work in partnership with parents, early intervention specialists and therapists to evaluate each child's needs, identify outcomes, explore options and develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) composed of supports and services for each eligible child and family. ChildLink services are provided at no cost to families. Service Coordinators’ roles and responsibilities include the following: develop an IFSP to meet the individual needs of eligible children and their families; coordinate and obtain early intervention supports and services needed by eligible children and their families; monitor supports and services and facilitate reviews and changes to the IFSP; assist eligible children to transition at age three to pre-school early intervention and/or other community and specialized supports and services; monitor development of children until age three if they are at-risk for a developmental delay due to medical or environmental factors. General Information Geographical area of city served: Citywide Population/Age Groups served: Infant and Toddlers (0-3 years old) Specialty or area of expertise: Developmental Delays and Disabilities, Early Intervention Service Categories: Service Coordination Self-Determination Philosophy ChildLink provides services that are family focused and family centered and based on family choice. ChildLink Service Coordinators understand that parents and primary caretakers know their child best and can best direct the early intervention process in order to meet the developmental needs of their child and overall needs of their family. The Consortium, Inc. 5828 B Market St., Phila., PA 19139, Phone: 215-472-1707 Fax: 215-472-1298 2701 N. Broad St., Phila., PA 19132, Phone: 215-225-3814 Fax: 215-225-3834 Contact Person: Shirley Carroll, Program Director, 215-472-1707 ex 1101 Email: shcarroll@consortium-inc.org Internet: www.consortium-inc.org Shana Wimmer, Unit Manager, 215-472-1707 ex: 1110 Email: swimmer@consortium-inc.org Darlene Gonzalez, Consumer Support Budget Specialist/FDSS Supervisor Phone: 215-472-1707 ex 1162 Email: dgonzalez@consortium-inc.org Executive: John F. White, Jr., President/CEO 215-596-8100 Description of Service Provider The Consortium, Inc. celebrates its 36th year of service to West and Southwest Philadelphia. As an early provider of services in Philadelphia, we set the standard of commitment in granting voice to consumers and families in shaping the future for community services. This tradition of commitment and compassion is still in practice today as over 3,500 consumers in 18 programs in 10 different locations throughout West and Southwest Philadelphia are served annually. The Consortium also offers a wide variety of behavioral health and other services. The Consortium is pleased to have been selected as one of four agencies to provide citywide Supports Coordination in Philadelphia. We continue our relationships with old friends, partner with new associates, and find creative ways to assist people with disabilities in achieving their dreams. Supports Coordination is the only MR service we provide in order to be conflict-free. Referrals come from the Mental Retardation Services (MRS) Registration Unit. We see Supports Coordination as a way to enrich people’s lives. Philadelphia’s tradition of neighborhoods and the Everyday Lives, person-centered philosophy enhances community bonds. The “trickle-down” of changing perspectives is apparent as more people with disabilities contribute as citizens and neighbors. General Information Geographical area of city served: Philadelphia Population/Age Groups: Age 3 and over Specialty/area of expertise: Mental Retardation Service Categories: Supports Coordination Self-Determination Philosophy Our work with people with mental retardation has shown us the need to assist people in their wishes to enhance their lives. Freedom to assist families in a personal and dynamic way is the best way to help people with mental retardation realize their dreams. Personal changes also enrich a family’s life. Communities also learn about the unlimited abilities of persons with “disabilities”, challenging their own assumptions and knowledge base. Our challenge is to learn to listen to those around us as we move forward in fulfilling life’s dreams. Hall-Mercer PLF/OBRA SUPPORTS COORDINATION PROGRAM INTENSIVE SERVICES CASE MANAGEMENT PROGRAM 245 S. 8th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19106-3586 PLF and OBRA Supports Coordination Programs Contact Person: Michele Donahue 215-829-7657 Email: donahuem@pahosp.com Intensive Services Case Management Contact Person: Adrienne Harmon 215-829-5709 Email: harmona@pa.hosp.com Description of Service Provider Hall-Mercer provides supports coordination to individuals and their families who qualify for services through Philadelphia Mental Retardation Services (MRS). PLF and OBRA Programs support individuals living in private licensed facilities and nursing homes. Intensive Services Case Management provides emergency case management services to adults with mental retardation and emergency placement for individuals who are homeless and have a diagnosis of mental retardation. Services Supports Coordinators conduct on-going visits to individuals who live in private licensed facilities and nursing homes to monitor supports and services. As MRS identifies an individual for community services, PLF Supports Coordination Program facilitates transition to community living. General Information Geographical area of city served: Phila. and surrounding counties Population/age groups: 3 years and over Specialty/area of Expertise: Mental Retardation Service Categories: Supports Coordination Self-Determination Philosophy To ensure the highest quality of service for consumers in their current living arrangements and to promote choice, satisfaction and a successful transition to community living. Mental Retardation Services (MRS) 701 Market St., 5th floor, Suite 5200, Philadelphia, PA 19106-1532 Telephone: Information & Reception 215-685-5900 Registration 215-685-4MRS (4677) Contact Person: Gail Harrison, Manager, Court-Ordered Supports Coordination Telephone: 215-685-4680, email: gail.harrison@phila.gov Contact Person: Elayne Blender, Acting Manager, Registration and Individual Supports Telephone: 215 685-5997, email: elayne.blender@phila.gov Contact Person: William Mills, Supervisor, ICF/MR Supports Coordination Telephone: 215-685-4679, Email: william.mills@phila.gov Director: Kathy L. Sykes, 215-685-5909, email: kathy.sykes@phila.gov Description of Service Provider Created under the Pennsylvania Mental Health and Mental Retardation Act of 1966, MRS is responsible for planning, administering, monitoring, and coordinating services for people with mental retardation. MRS created a centralized registration unit in September 2003 that serves as the citywide point of entry for individuals three and above who are likely to meet the criteria for mental retardation services. In addition to its administrative responsibilities, MRS also has direct responsibility for the provision of court-ordered supports coordination for nearly 500 individuals living in the community who are Embreeville and Pennhurst class members. In addition, there are another 900 people who are registered and receive supports coordination through Philadelphia County and receive residential support through private and public Intermediate Care Facilities (ICF/MR), typically in larger, more institutional type facilities. ICF/MRs are located in Philadelphia and other parts of the state. General Information Geographical area of city served: Philadelphia Population / Age groups: All ages Specialty / Area of expertise: Mental Retardation Services Service Categories: Supports Coordination Self-Determination Philosophy The Mission of Mental Retardation Services (MRS) is to create, promote, and enhance the supports and services available to individuals with mental retardation. Individuals will have access to quality supports and services that foster: - Choices in their everyday lives, - Meaningful relationships with friends, family, neighbors, - Presence and participation in their communities, and - Dignity and respect as valued citizens of Philadelphia. Partnership for Community Supports (PFCS) 9350 Ashton Road, Suite 102, Philadelphia, Pa. 19114-3464 Telephone: 267-350-4500 Contact Person: Helen Falguera, Program Director 267-350-4518 Email: hfalguera@ pfcsupports.org Internet: pfcsupports.org Executive Director: Carol Frangicetto Telephone: 267-350-4539 Email: cfrangicetto@pfcsupports.org Description of Service Provider PFCS provides citywide Supports coordination and Family Driven Supports Services (FDSS) for individuals with mental retardation and their families. While newly established in 2004, the leadership of Partnership for Community Supports (PFCS) has more than thirty years of experience providing Supports Coordination. Our Supports Coordinators are well supervised and include bilingual staff and children’s specialists who work flexible hours and will meet you in your home, at your program or other community location of your choice. We listen to your needs, preferences and frustrations. We assist you in developing an Individual Support Plan and in locating and coordinating supports and services within the community that will enable you to have a full and meaningful life of your choosing. Our goal is to develop a relationship based upon respect and understanding, to be responsive to your requests for assistance and information and to return your phone calls promptly. We will strongly advocate on your behalf for the services that you tell us you need. We believe that through forging partnerships with individuals, their family, service providers and their community that we can help individuals and families achieve the goals they identify and facilitate the realization of their dreams. General Information Geographical area of city served: Philadelphia Population/Age Groups served: Individuals over age 3 who have mental retardation and are referred by MRS Specialty or area of expertise: Mental Retardation Services & Supports Service Categories: Supports Coordination and Family Driven Supports Services Self-Determination Philosophy PFCS recognizes that each individual has unique abilities, capacities and strengths and the right to fully participate in all aspects of the community in which they live. Therefore services must be individualized through person-centered planning. Each individual will be encouraged to become as independent as possible, to exercise choice of service options and control over decisions that affect them. We invite individuals and their families to participate in PFCS’ Advisory Committee to share resources and identify needs for information. PersonLink 260 S. Broad Street, 8th floor, Philadelphia, PA 19102 Telephone: 267-295-3800 Internet: PHMC.org Contact Person: Eileen Keenan, Program Director Telephone: 267-295-3801 Email: Eileen@phmc.org Executive Director: Michael Moore, Vice-President Telephone: 215-731-2103 Email: mike@phmc.org Description of Service Provider PersonLink provides Supports Coordination to consumers and their families who qualify for services through Philadelphia Mental Retardation Services (MRS). PersonLink, as its name implies, will help and support individuals and their families to obtain resources, services and supports available in neighborhoods throughout Philadelphia. PersonLink staff look forward to working with all consumers and their families who choose PersonLink to become their supports coordination program. PersonLink Supports Coordinators will work with you and your family to ensure that you get every opportunity to voice your opinions, desires, wants, dreams and expectations regarding what is important in your life. Supports Coordinators will partner with you and your family to identify your specific needs and desired outcomes and to develop your Individual Service Plan. PersonLink staff will provide you with ongoing contact, timely return of phone calls and visits to your home or a community setting of your choice to ensure that you are well informed. They will assist you to make informed and individualized choices and decisions regarding services, resources and supports available to you in your community. PersonLink is part of the Philadelphia Health Management Corporation (PHMC), a nonprofit, public health organization with over 30 years of experience providing services and supports to people in all areas of Philadelphia. PHMC’s mission is “to improve the health of individuals and families through outreach, education, research, planning, technical assistance and direct service. General Information Geographical area of city served: All areas Population/Age Groups served: 3 years and over Specialty or area of expertise: Mental Retardation Service Categories: Supports Coordination Self-Determination Philosophy All services provided by PHMC are consumer and family-centered and assist individuals and their families through self-determination and self-advocacy practices and by seeking and utilizing resources in their community. Quality Progressions 125 S. 9th St., Suite 400 Philadelphia, Pa. 19107 Telephone: 267-765-2000 Fax: 267-765-2019 Contact Person: Adrienne Hill, 267-765-2002; ahill@qualityprogressions.org Executive Director: Joel Goldberg, 267-765-2001; jgoldberg@qualityprogressions.org Internet: www.qualityprogressions.org Description of Service Provider Our mission is to be people driven, committed and progressive in our relationship to individuals with disabilities and their families. Quality Progressions was born out of the belief that services can truly reflect the values of choice, self-determination and achievement of outcomes as determined by those receiving services. Quality Progressions is based in Center City, but Supports Coordinators will meet with people and families in their neighborhood at a time that meets their needs. Services (Activities) involve, but are not limited to: * Develop and manage the Individual Support Plan for each person. * Identify services to meet the person’s needs. * Monitors the services people are receiving to assure needs are being met. * Assures each person is healthy and safe. * Development and management of FDSS Plans. * Coordinates the services people are receiving. Quality Progressions is all about choices. We provide quality, objective supports and options for people of all ages as they make meaningful choices. Through their choices, people determine their lives and futures. We are vigilant in ensuring choices are individualized – prioritized and defined by those we serve. We creatively support people as they explore their desired place and role in the community. We recognize and value that through choice, people achieve greater inclusion and participation in their community. Subsequently, they assume greater responsibility in, and make increased contributions to their communities. General Information Geographical area of city served: All areas Population/Age Groups: Age 4 and over Specialty or area of expertise: Mental Retardation Service Categories: Supports Coordination Self Determination Philosophy Quality Progressions believes that people with mental retardation need to understand their options and make choices based on what they feel they need and want. As people exercise control over their lives they take responsibility for their decisions and actions, and begin to understand they are in control of their future; they feel a sense of satisfaction with their current circumstances, pride in their efforts to achieve what they desire, and hopefulness about their future. II-E Waiting Lists and the Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) For many years, Philadelphia MRS has maintained centralized lists of persons waiting for community services; these include in-home supports, residential, employment, and day services in the community. Examples of individuals waiting for services are people who live with their families or in their own homes, young adults who graduated from high school and have no services, older adults who live with elderly caregivers, and elderly persons with mental retardation. There was no standard definition throughout Pennsylvania and it was difficult to measure the scope of need. So, in order to measure and prioritize individual’s service needs, the State Office of Mental Retardation, now called the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) initiated a study of the waiting list using an instrument known as the Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) for Persons with Mental Retardation. The Institute on Disabilities of Temple University developed this survey tool in 1998. The PUNS is the form an individual completes with his or her Supports Coordinator to identify services and needs. The PUNS is updated annually, and anytime if there is a change in need. A new PUNS also is completed when the service need is met. As of April 2007, 2,923 people are waiting for services. 848 people are listed in “emergency” status and 1,445 in “critical” status. The remaining 630 people are in “planning” status. A lack of funding for supports and services for those on the waiting list continues to be a serious problem. It becomes a crisis as people with mental retardation and their caregivers age or experience the sudden loss of the caregiver due to death, illness or other condition. These issues serve to underscore waiting lists as one of the most serious problems facing the service delivery system locally, statewide, and across the nation. As a result of the lack of adequate resources to serve those in need, the mental retardation service system will continue to face challenges responding to emergencies. II-F Waiver Services What You Need to Know About the Person/Family Directed Support Waiver In Philadelphia 1. What is the Waiver? The Waiver is a federal program based on an amendment to the Social Security Act. This amendment allows any state that meets the federal requirements to use federal dollars to fund programs and services for people who have mental retardation and who live in the community. Prior to the amendment, these federal dollars could only be used for institutional care in nursing homes or state MR facilities or Intermediate Care Facilities (ICFs/MR). In Pennsylvania, the waiver is a funding source that enables us to provide services, which help people in the community to maintain and/or increase adaptive living skills. To receive federal dollars, the state must comply with federal requirements. * NOTE: With minimal exceptions, the Consolidated Waiver rules are the same as the P/FDS Waiver; the primary difference being the Consolidated Waiver includes community homes and residential arrangements such as Lifesharing (formerly known as Family Living). Also, see information about the Infant, Toddler and Families Waiver (ITF) at the end of this section. For further information, about the P/FDSW, Consolidated, and Base services, also refer to the service definitions in Section VII-B. The Person and Family Directed Support Waiver (P/FDSW) was first approved in January 2000. This waiver has a $22,525.00 annual cap for the cost of services. 2. Why is waiver funding important? The P/FDS Waiver affords the state an opportunity to bring more federal dollars into Pennsylvania, thereby enabling more people to be served. There are two types of funding for services and supports: * Base funding: this is 100% state dollars: * Waiver funding: this is approximately 54% federal dollars and 46% state dollars As of August 1, 2007, Philadelphia has approximately 820 individuals active in the P/FDS Waiver. 3. Who is eligible for waiver funded services? To be eligible, you must be a resident of Philadelphia, have a documented diagnosis of mental retardation and meet the financial eligibility requirements. This particular waiver is only available to people who live with their families or on their own. 4. What services are eligible under the Person and Family Directed Support Waiver? A complete listing of all eligible services is available in Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Bulletin #00-07-03, effective July 1, 2007. The following is an abbreviated list of the services that are eligible under the P/FDSW: * Home and Community Habilitation: any support or service provided in home and community settings to assist individuals who need help to acquire, retain or improve self-help, domestic, socialization, and adaptive skills necessary to reside successfully in home * Licensed Day Services: (Adult Training Facilities, Older Adult Services) This service is provided to address the same needs as Home and Community Habilitation. The differences are the settings in which services are provided and the regulatory standards that apply. * Prevocational Services: Services consist of work experience and other developmental work training activities designed to promote movement into higher level vocational programming. * Personal Support Services: This service is designed for people with mental retardation who are self-directing their services. Services are provided to assist people in planning, organizing, and managing community resources and supports. * Supported Employment Services: (Job Finding and Job Support) ODP and Philadelphia MRS promote employment for all persons. These services consist of paid employment for persons who, because of their disabilities, need intensive ongoing support to perform in a work setting. * Transitional Work Service: This service consists of supporting individuals in transition to integrated, competitive employment through work that occurs in a location other than a facility. * Specialized Therapies and Nursing Services: Evaluations and clinically indicated therapies, including OT, PT, Speech, Vision/Mobility, Visiting Nurse. A denial letter from medical assistance, fee for service or managed care and any other third party insurance must be received prior to any healthcare related services being provided. * Respite Services: (in-home, out of home) (24 hours, less than 24 hours). These are services that are provided to supervise/support people with mental retardation on a short - term basis due to the absence or need for relief of those persons normally providing care. Individuals can receive two categories of respite services: 24 hour overnight respite and temporary respite. Overnight respite is limited to 28 days per year. Temporary respite is recommended at a maximum of 4 sessions per month. * Respite – Camp: (Overnight, Day). Available respite time may be applied to a camp experience. Overnight Camp respite services are provided in 24-hour segments in a residential camp setting. This service is limited to 4 weeks per year. Any time spent at overnight camp counts toward the total overnight respite limit of 28 days per fiscal year. * Day camp services are provided in day camp settings in segments of less than 24 hours. Any time spent at Day camp counts toward the total temporary respite limit of 4 sessions per month. * Transportation: (Mileage, public transportation, per diem, trip). The purpose of transportation services is to enable people to access services and activities in accordance with their approved individual support plans. Mileage reimbursement can be provided when a family member, friend, or other licensed driver transports the person to services or activities specified in the person’s I.S.P. Public transportation tokens or transit passes may be purchased and distributed by the provider agency on a weekly or monthly basis for the same reason. Per diem and trip transportation are forms of transportation which utilize a provider vehicle to transport an individual to and from a service or activity identified in that person’s I.S.P. * Environmental Accessibility Adaptations: This consists of certain modifications to the home or personal vehicle, which are necessary due to the person’s disability. Adaptations which add to the total square footage of the home are excluded from this benefit. The maximum allowable expense for these adaptations (home and vehicle combined) is $20,000.00 per household. A new $20,000.00 limit can be applied when the person moves to a new home. * Adaptive Appliances/Equipment: Services consist of specifically designed appliances and devices needed for the person to live as independently as possible in the home and community. Services are limited to adaptive eating utensils, cooking and cleaning devices, personal care items not defined as durable medical equipment and communication devices. All devices and appliances must be recommended by a health care provider. Cost of the repair of these items is allowable under the waiver. Instructional supplies, workbooks, and material used as a habilitation or training aid and durable medical equipment are excluded from reimbursement through the waiver. * Homemaker/Chore Services: Homemaker services consist of services to enable the individual or the family with whom the individual resides to maintain their private residence. This service can only be provided when a household member is temporarily absent or unable to manage the home. Services must be provided by a trained homemaker and may include cleaning and laundry, meal preparation, and other general household care. Chore service consists of heavy household activities such as washing floors, windows, and walls: tacking down loose rugs and tiles: moving heavy items of furniture in order to provide safe access and egress: ice, snow, and/or leaf removal and yard maintenance. In the case of rental property, the responsibility of the landlord, pursuant to the lease agreement, will be examined prior to any authorization of service. Maintenance in the form of upkeep and improvements to the individual’s residence is excluded from payment through the waiver. These services are limited to a combined total of $2,000.00 per person per fiscal year. 5. What is an I.S.O.? An Intermediary Service Organization (ISO) is a service that assists individuals/representatives in the employment and management of support service workers and vendors. There are two types of I.S.O.’s. They are: * Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Under this model the person, or their representative is the “Employer of Record” by I.R.S. standards. The ISO functions as an employer agent on behalf of the person/representative for the purpose of withholding, filing and paying federal employment taxes and income taxes, as required for a person’s qualified support services workers. * Agency with Choice ISO: Under this model, the ISO is the “Employer of Record” by IRS standards and functions as the co-employer with the person or their representative. Under this model the ISO and the person/representative work together to perform many employer-related functions such as hiring workers, developing work schedules, managing day-to-day responsibilities of workers, providing orientation, and training to workers, and disciplining and firing workers when necessary. The ISO is responsible for invoicing for services rendered, processing employment documents, paying workers, and providing worker compensation for workers. Presently, Pennsylvania has not identified an agency to provide this service. The expectation is that an agency will be in place by January 2008. Payment for this service will be made using administrative dollars and not waiver service dollars. Currently this service is being provided by a few of our vendor organizations until such time as a statewide or regional agency is identified. 6. How will services be monitored? The Administrative Entity (Philadelphia MRS) is responsible to ensure that monitoring is conducted at a frequency and duration necessary to ensure that services and supports are provided and the health and welfare of the individual is being maintained. The minimum monitoring frequency required is as follows: * For persons living with a family member, the monitor/supports coordinator must contact the person and family at least once every three months and have face-to-face contacts at least once every six months. One of these face-to-face monitorings must occur in the family home. * For persons who do not live with their family, the monitor/supports coordinator must contact the person at least once a month and have face-to-face contacts at least every three months. At least one of these face-to-face contacts must occur in the home. The monitoring will be done by a designated supports coordination organization, on behalf of Philadelphia MRS, the Administrative Entity. They will include a review of the progress on the outcomes identified in the person’s Individual Support Plan (ISP) as well as a review of the person’s health and welfare status. 7. What are the financial eligibility requirements? The financial eligibility information applies to the individual who has MR, not to his or her family members. * Any person who receives SSI automatically meets the financial eligibility requirements because this person is considered “categorically needy”. This means that his/her assets/financial resources cannot exceed $2,000.00. * Any person who receives benefits other than S.S.I. can not have assets/financial resources in excess of $8,000, including bank accounts, checking accounts, insurance policies with a cash value, Certificates of Deposit, etc. The person’s monthly income must be below $1,869.00 including “unearned income” such as Social Security benefits, Civil Service Annuity, Railroad Retirement benefits, VA benefits, pensions, etc. and “earned income” such as wages from a job or workshop. 8. What does the initial eligibility paperwork include? a) Documentation of mental retardation (a current psychological report) b) A current physical examination report (no older than 1 year) c) An Individual Support Plan d) PA 600 form: this form is the financial application. All documentation verifying resources and assets must be attached. e) Certification of Need form (MR 250): this form documents the individual’s need for services that would otherwise only be provided in an institution. This form must be signed by the QMRP (Qualified Mental Retardation Professional). In addition, the QMRP will complete an adaptive behavior assessment f) Home and Community Based Service Application (MR 459): this ensures that the individual in need of service has his or her eligibility for waiver services assessed by an Administrative Entity (county) representative. g) Home and Community Based Service Preference form (MR 457): this form documents the individual’s request for home and community-based services under the waiver rather than services provided in an institutional setting. h) Fair Hearing Notice (MR 458): This document informs the individual of the right to appeal or request a hearing if he/she is not satisfied with their services. i) OVR Referral: This requirement applies to individuals, eighteen and above, and consists of a letter sent to the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) with a copy of the psychological, physical examination report, and service plan, including any employment information. j) PA 4 Form: This form allows the County Assistance Office to contact the individual’s bank to verify account balances. This applies to accounts in the individual’s name and Social Security number only. 9. What is a QMRP? A QMRP is a Qualified Mental retardation Professional. This person is usually a psychologist, special educator, social worker, occupational therapist, or physical therapist. The federal regulations require that this trained professional assess an individual’s mental retardation and his/her need for service. The QMRP helps to complete the necessary documents. 10. What happens to all of this paperwork? All of this eligibility paperwork is submitted to the Philadelphia DBH/MRS where it is reviewed for accuracy and completeness. The PA 600 and PA 4 forms and the MR 250 form are then sent to the Philadelphia County Assistance Office/Nursing Home District for processing. This is the local office of the Department of Public Welfare/Office of Income Maintenance that is responsible for the final, official determination of waiver eligibility. This office issues the PA 162 form that documents the individual’s authorized date of waiver eligibility. Each year, updated physical health evaluation and current financial information must be submitted to the County Assistance Office to maintain eligibility for the waiver. 11. What are the responsibilities of the Representative Payee? The representative payee (rep payee) is responsible for making sure that an individual’s benefit checks are used for the individual. This includes making sure that the individual’s assets remain below allowable limits ($2,000.00 for persons receiving S.S.I. and $8,000 for those who receive benefits other than S.S.I.), and providing all requested documentation on an annual basis to maintain waiver eligibility. ITF Waiver All children who meet eligibility requirements for Early Intervention services will receive services according to their Individual Family Service Plan (IFSP). Early Intervention is an entitlement for infants and toddlers with a 25% delay in one or more of the following areas: Cognitive development; physical development including vision and hearing; communication development; social or emotional development; or adaptive development. The Infant, Toddler and Families (ITF) Waiver applies to children from birth to their third birthday. To be eligible, the child must be eligible for or already have Medical Assistance (MA), have a 50% delay in one area or 33% delay in two areas, and must receive services in the home or a community setting. Ten services are eligible for waiver funding: Social Work Habilitation Psychological Services Audiology Speech Habilitation Health Services Special Instruction Habilitation Nursing Services Physical Therapy Nutrition Services Occupational Therapy The ITF Waiver may be accessed through Early Intervention (EI) Service Coordination upon completion of the multidisciplinary evaluation. Early Intervention Services are funded through the ITF Waiver, Medical Assistance or the state and county. Check with your ChildLink Service Coordinator to determine your eligibility. II-G Right To a Fair Hearing A Draft Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Bulletin, for review and comment purposes only, was released on September 28, 2007, entitled “Due Process and Fair Hearing Procedures for Individuals with Mental Retardation.” This Bulletin is part of three documents that should be reviewed together, and also includes “Individual Eligibility for Medicaid Waiver Services,” and “Procedures for Service Delivery Preference.” ODP and MRS will share Final Bulletins regarding these processes when they are officially released. Philadelphia MRS must send you a written notice when services are denied or before services are reduced, or terminated. If you are applying for waiver services or an ICF/MR level of care, or if you object to an action taken affecting your claim for waiver services, you have the right to a county conference, mediation, fair hearing, or all three. You may try to resolve an issue through meeting with a Philadelphia MRS representative, through the mediation process, or through a fair hearing conducted by the Bureau of Hearings and Appeals. If you choose the mediation, this process is completed through an independent entity that is currently called the Office for Dispute Resolution. All three processes can occur at the same time or one at a time. Philadelphia MRS is responsible for ensuring that you receive whatever help is needed to fill out and file the appeal form. You may file an oral appeal by telephone or in person. But, you must follow-up an oral appeal with a written appeal within three days. Philadelphia MRS must ensure that you get the necessary assistance to file the written appeal. All questions regarding the hearing process must be directed to the Bureau of Hearings and Appeals site administrator at: Bureau of Hearings and Appeals 1400 Spring Garden Street Room 1608 Philadelphia, PA 19130-9943 Telephone: 215-560-2145 The forms and instructions to request a Fair Hearing are found in Section VII-A. Section III: QUALITY: IT’S EVERYONE’S BUSINESS “The measure of quality is not the delivery of a service or support, but rather the results that services or supports produce for each person.” -The Council on Quality and Leadership III-A Independent Monitoring for Quality (IM4Q) The Commonwealth of PA’s Multi-Year Plan for the Mental Retardation Service System requires that, “all local county mental retardation programs must have in place a local monitoring team that is independent of the local service system and that is made up of a majority of individuals and family members. Outcomes for people and individual and family satisfaction should be the major focus of the assessments” conducted by the team. Core values of this survey process are a commitment to be continually responsive to the needs of people with disabilities and their families, and that individuals receiving service drive service provision. Vision for Equality began independent monitoring in 1999 and continues to conduct these surveys. Each year Vision for Equality surveys one third of the people who receive residential supports funded through Philadelphia MRS; in addition community residents living in their family home or other homes are interviewed as well as selected individuals receiving Person/Family Directed Support Waiver funds. Teams this year will visit approximately 766 randomly selected people to conduct interviews in a place of the individual’s choice. Independent Monitoring is designed to establish statewide performance measures to compare and evaluate supports and services, and for use as a management tool. The IM4Q reports are shared with the individual and his or her team with considerations for their use. IM4Q data and reports are prepared annually for each county and on a statewide basis. These reports can be accessed through the Department of Public Welfare’s website at www.dpw.state.pa.us/omr/omrIM4Q.asp. The summaries contain findings that are useful for individual planning and in developing quality management plans. Additional information is available at info@visionforequality.org. Everyone Communicates! In 2006, IM4Q made a presentation to the mayor’s MH/MR Advisory Board., highlighting the need for increased resources to assist people who do not communicate in typical ways. The Board, struck by the facts showing many people do not have sufficient supports to communicate fully, committed to raising awareness of this issue and supports efforts to dedicate resources to help enhance communication for people we serve. In addition, The Quality Council, comprised of stakeholders throughout the system, has started a project to measure positive communication outcomes for individuals. All service providers will be asked to appoint a Communication Champion, who will raise awareness of the importance of communication issues, provide assistance to address individual’s communication issues, and champion the cause of improved communication across the agency’s policies and quality improvement initiatives. The theme for the 2007 My City, My Place and Brighter Futures Awards event is “Everyone Communicates!, as together we explore ways to raise awareness, provide practical tools, and support individuals to communicate fully. Our entire system can do more to foster improved communication, not only by using and understanding assistive technology, but by making a commitment to the belief that, indeed, Everyone Communicates! When we talk about supporting people to make their needs known, to make meaningful choices and achieve self-determination, then people also must be supported to communicate their message, and to be “heard.” See information about providers of communication resources and supports in Section IV. III-B Philadelphia Quality Management Initiative Over the past ten years, MRS has invested in the use of personal outcome measures as defined by the Council on Quality and Leadership. Outcomes are what people expect from the supports and services they receive; outcomes refer to the major expectations that people have in their lives. Philadelphia MRS is committed to achieving, documenting, and reporting results or outcomes for citizens with mental retardation who receive supports and services through the mental retardation service system. Through our annual contracting process, we require that agencies providing services to adults will assume a proactive role in the enhancement of quality through self-assessment, using trained interviewers to conduct a minimum number of outcome interviews based on the size of the agency, and use all data sources including Supports Coordination monitoring reports, IM4Q reports, licensing reports, QEST or CFST reviews to evaluate the quality and effectiveness of their services and make improvements as needed. Each provider agency is required to develop and implement an annual quality management plan. The QM process must include ongoing meaningful participation from people with mental retardation, family members, advocates, guardians, community boards, and staff at all levels of the organization. In their quality management plan, agencies must indicate in narrative format and submit data that contribute to three required outcomes: People are safe, People are employed in the community, and People have the best possible health. Providers may choose other outcomes to work on within their agencies and their own quality committees. Three additional outcomes are suggested for future use: People’s choices are supported, People have valued social roles, and People are satisfied with supports and services. These requirements are applicable to providers of community living or residential services, and employment and day services to adults. Each provider is expected to maintain and use data on a monthly basis to document progress in each outcome area and to submit data quarterly to MRS. The reports may include progress towards reaching outcomes for individuals supported by the agency or progress in reaching organizational outcomes that lead to improvement in the overall quality of agency services and supports provided. These plans are reviewed by MRS staff to ensure that plans are consistent with values and policies set forth by the State Office of Developmental Programs and MRS. Feedback is sent to agencies in response to their plan with commendations and recommendations. There are currently 50 agencies participating in the QM process. This initiative will expand in the future to include providers serving children as well as adults. III-C Quality and Your Personal Outcomes – Questions for Individuals and Family Members to Ask a Service Provider We are all striving to achieve personal outcomes – those personal goals and decisions that are most important to us. But sometimes we need the help and support of a service organization. How do I decide which services and supports are right for me? What information do I need to help me make decisions? How can I let service providers know what is important to me? How can I decide if a provider is likely to meet my needs? When making decisions about services and providers, it is important to let providers know what is important to you and what you would expect from them, by asking the right questions – designed to find out if a provider is right for you. Asking the right questions will help a provider know what you are looking for, and how you expect to be supported. These questions are designed to help individuals and family members ask questions about services and supports that are right for them. Remember that quality is defined by the individual, so there are no correct answers. It’s what’s right for you. (Questions are from The Council on Quality and Leadership.) RIGHTS AND CHOICE: 1. How much “say” will I have in determining the services that I receive? 2. What type of planning method is used? 3. Is the planning decided by professionals, or will I decide? 4. What is your organization’s position regarding my rights? 5. What is the due process procedure? (the right to a county conference or fair hearing, or both if you object to an action taken affecting your claim for services) 6. How will I be able to express my concerns about how I am treated or decisions that are reached? QUALITY/COMMUNITY IMAGE 1. What are the mission, goals and vision of the organization? 2. How do people who receive services contribute to this process? 3. How were customers involved in this process? 4. How were recommendations implemented? 5. What is your organization’s image in the community? 6. Who can I talk to about community perceptions? 7. What is your philosophy of giving back to the community? SATISFACTION 1. How do you (the organization) determine satisfaction? 2. Could I see the format and result of the (organization’s) most recent survey? 3. Could I talk with someone who receives your services? 4. What kind of reference checks could I personally conduct? 5. How is success evaluated? 6. Could I see the results of evaluations conducted by a group not affiliated with your organization? SUPPORTS 1. If I or my family member wishes to go somewhere and needs assistance, how will you (the organization) make sure that happens? 2. What is the process you (the organization) use to assure that my (or my family) member’s personal goals are met? EMPLOYMENT 1. What kinds of employment opportunities are available? 2. What are some places that other people work? PERSONNEL/STAFF 1. What kinds of requirements do you (the organization) have for staff? 2. What is the ratio of staff and people who receive services? 3. What type of training does staff receive? 4. What is the staff turnover rate? 5. What if I don’t like some of the staff working with me? 6. How will I be involved in the hiring and evaluation of my staff? MEDICAL 1. What choices will I have for medical services? 2. What are some things you (the organization) do to promote good health and safety? LIVING ARRANGEMENTS 1. What choices will I have regarding my living arrangement? 2. What options are available to me? RECREATION 1. What do you (the organization) do to promote fun? 2. How will you (the organization) assist me to establish relationships with people that aren’t paid to be with me or with people who do not have disabilities? 3. What kinds of community organizations do people belong to? ORGANIZATIONAL 1. What funding do you (the organization) receive? 2. How long have you (the organization) been in business? For more information about Personal Outcome Measures, contact MRS at 215-685-5980. III-D Your Personal Outcomes The following worksheet will assist you in listing the things that are important to you as you prepare for a visit to an agency that provides or may provide services and supports. A first step is to think about the things that are important in your life. What do you want to accomplish? What is important to you? How can the provider support you in achieving your outcomes? Things that are important in my life: 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ Things I want to do: 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ Things I want to ask: 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ How can the provider support me in achieving my outcomes? 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ After Visiting a Service Provider: Here’s an opportunity to write down your impressions and thoughts after visiting a service provider, to help you compare your thoughts about other providers and help you make decisions. Things I liked about the organization and staff: 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ Things that concern me: 1. ________________________________________________________________ 2. ________________________________________________________________ 3. ________________________________________________________________ Some additional questions to consider: 1. Did you feel welcomed? Yes No 2. Did someone spend time finding out what you want Yes No and need? 3. Did someone clearly explain what services and activities Yes No they provide? 4. Was the home or building clean, welcoming and a Yes No place you’d like to spend time? 5. Did you see positive interaction between staff and people receiving services? Yes No 6. Was the building accessible? Yes No 7. Was the person talking about the services Yes No knowledgeable, enthusiastic? 8. Are family visits encouraged? Yes No 9. Is family involvement encouraged? Yes No Sometimes it takes several visits before you feel comfortable. Ask the organization what type of supports are provided for smooth transitions. III-E Lifesharing – What a Wonderful Option! The Commonwealth Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and MRS are committed to increasing opportunities for Lifesharing to be considered and chosen as a residential option. To help support this commitment, Supports Coordinators are required to discuss Lifesharing with individuals and families, as an option to consider as part of an individual’s planning process. The primary reason ODP and MRS want to increase opportunities for individuals to choose Lifesharing is that, for many people, Lifesharing can hold the key to a better life. It offers the opportunity to be part of a family, which for many is a long held dream. In turn, as part of a family, people participate in the life of their neighborhood and community. Lifesharing providers not only support the individual, they support the entire family, to help make a win-win situation for everyone. Individuals and families who open their homes and their hearts to a person we serve also reap the benefits that come with giving, and enjoy both the growth of the person they support, and their own, as well. Each Lifesharing success story is built one by one, and supported one by one. One person really can make all the difference. See a list of Lifesharing Providers, and descriptions of all service providers, in Section V. For more information about Lifesharing, contact one of the four SCOs (Section II-D) or contact Kathy Harte at MRS, 215-685-5947, or at kathy.harte@phila.gov. III-F Vision for Employment 2010 – We’re On the Job! Today, more than ever, ODP and MRS are committed to supporting successful employment outcomes for those we serve. The goal of Vision for Employment 2010 is to increase the number of people employed in the community, and for everyone we serve to consider employment. Supports Coordinators are required to discuss employment with individuals and families as part of the individual planning process. (Please see the four Fact Sheets about Employment on the following pages, entitled “What Can You Expect From Supports Coordination in the Process of Employment”; “Questions that People Can Ask a Prospective Community Integrated Employment Provider”; “What Can You Expect From Supports Coordination in the Transition From School to Work and Community Life Years (16-21 years of age)”; and “General Information for Families and Caregivers Involved in Special Education”). When people discuss an everyday life, and a “quality” life, for many people, having a job is an essential part of the life they want. And this fact is something almost any person can relate to. “I like to cash my check!” is the statement most often heard from people who share their employment success story. However, their stories share so much more. Independence. Success. Inclusion. Personal Satisfaction. Growth, and challenges overcome. Friendship. Being part of a team. And of course, earning money! CIE providers, residential services providers, supports coordinators, families, the child-serving systems, the Commonwealth and MRS, employers, and many others all have a role to play to support people to enjoy successful employment outcomes. Working in collaboration, creating a ‘culture of employment,’ and committing to the belief that everyone belongs in the community workforce earning a living, is essential to ‘making employment happen.’ We all can be Employment Ambassadors, sharing the Vision for Employment 2010. “Employment is the great equalizer. When people are employed, earning money, working side-by-side with others, many of the issues that separate people simply go away.” Clearly, jobs and career planning for the people we represent is one of the important ways of achieving a better and richer society. And, for our youth, we must instill the expectation that they will join the workforce when they leave school, and enter the adult world. “It’s the right thing to do. The work and energy of the Vision for Employment 2010 is not the result of an outside system, or a court order demanding that employment be our focus. Rather, understanding all the benefits that accrue to people who are employed in the community, and collaborating with others to spread the message that work is good, and all can contribute, is just the right thing to do.” We’ll continue to share employment success stories, each one not only marking the success of an individual, but also reaffirming and validating the commitment to a culture of employment for all, and the goals of Vision for Employment 2010. See more about Vision for Employment 2010 in Section IV. Quotes in III-F excerpted from the MRS booklet “We’re On the Job! What Can You Expect from Supports Coordination in the Transition from School to Work and Community Life Years (16 to 21 years of age) * Cordiality and discussions with the Support Coordinator that are kind and civil * Return phone calls (Typically within 24 to 48 hours) * Updating the PUNS and Service Preference Packets * Raising knowledge about the Philadelphia Transition Planning Project * Attendance at the Individual Education Plan (IEP)/Transition Meeting if invited three weeks in advance by the parents of the Person/Student. Support Coordinators will participate actively in the IEP meeting * Knowledge about current educational law including PL 110-476, Pa. Chapter 14 Regulations, the Oberti Standards, the Gaskins Settlement and the expectation of inclusion, least restrictive environment and specially designed services and supports * Raising knowledge of community integrated employment as a viable option for people in their adult life and discussing this at IEP/Transition Meetings. * Assist the caregiver and school personnel to make referrals to the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and other resources for possible funding for services, supports and equipment * Provide information about other service options that promote competence into adulthood including summer jobs, assistive technology, transportation and community resources * Request a psychological from your school that includes information that is accurate and adequate for enrollment into waiver funding for mental retardation services and supports. www.philaonthejob.org Questions that People can ask a Prospective Community Integrated Employment Provider as they are making a Selection… 1. What kind of jobs are the people this agency currently supports, getting? Where are they working? 2. What kind of support do the agency job coaches provide? 3. What does the agency typically do if the person they are supporting is unhappy with their job and/ or the job is a bad match? 4. How long does it typically take the agency find a job? 5. How much flexibility can a caregiver expect from the agency in accommodating wishes regarding work hours and work days; distance from home; full or part time work? 6. What are the average wages earned by people that the agency currently supports in jobs? 7. How many people did the agency place in jobs last year? How many of these people are currently working? 8. How involved can caregivers, family members, advocates and other’s significant in a person’s life be in evaluating potential job options? 9. What does the agency expect the caregiver and significant others to provide or be responsible for in securing and maintaining employment? 10. How does one become affiliated with this employment agency? 11. How many staff does this agency employ? Is this a sufficient number to make sure that the person will receive adequate attention to their employment selection and job support needs? 12. How many people does the agency currently support in community integrated employment? www.philaonthejob.org Source: McAllister, M. (1993) Supported Employment for Persons with Disabilities: What it’s all about. What Can You Expect From Supports Coordination in the Process of Employment… * Cordiality and discussions that are thoughtful and civil * Phone calls returned in a timely manner, typically within 48 hours * Assistance to the Person and his/her caregiver on options that are available to them. This includes services, supports and resources * Explanation of what ‘employment’ may be. Part time employment, weekend employment, evening employment are all possibilities * Referral to employment services and supports * Assurance that the Service Preference Packet and PUNS is up to date and aligns with the ISP outcomes * Assurance that the Individual Service Plan (ISP) contains outcomes that are clear and employment focused * Follow up with employment providers on behalf of the Person * Responding to questions and getting back to the Person and Provider in a timely fashion * Connecting the Person with other employment related services and supports. These may include identifying transportation options, including SEPTA and assisting with transportation resources. Other services and supports may include Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and options for assistive devices * Monitoring employment reports provided by the Community Employment Provider and meeting with the Person to assure continuity and satisfaction www.philaonthejob.org General Information for Families and Caregivers Involved in Special Education Elementary School…… Help your child to participate in neighborhood events and activities. Middle School …… Provide broad exposure and continue to cultivate interests and lifelong learning. High School…… Have expectations of your child to achieve and learn the same things as their classmates without a developmental disability. Ask your child what they want to be when he/she grows up! Elementary School… * Ask your child, “What did you learn today at school?” * Help your child be known in your neighborhood - at the playground, in stores and other places where people are and where people enjoy speaking with one another. * Know your child’s strengths, talents and interests and don’t be bashful about discussing them with the teacher and others. * Invite people who support your wishes and dreams for your child to the Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting. This includes your child’s Supports Coordinator. * Document all phone calls with school personnel so that you have an accurate record of verbal as well as written communication. * Discuss the benefits of assistive technology and other accommodations at your child’s IEP. * If you are experiencing difficulty getting what your child needs to be properly educated, ask your Supports Coordinator for a list of Advocacy Organizations and contacts. * Make sure that your child is registered with Mental Retardation Services (MRS) if they are eligible. * Know the educational law. This includes the PA Chapter 14Regulations and Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), 2004. * If the IEP that you received to sign is not what you participated in, DO NOT SIGN IT or the Notice of Recommended Assignment of Plan (NORAP) that may have accompanied it. Request, in writing, another meeting or mediation right away. * Assume that your child will be attending the same school that he/she would if he/she did not have a disability. Specially designed instruction and supports are the law and explains what teachers are expected to do to develop skills and competencies. Promote opportunities for ALL children learning together! Middle School Years… * Insist that your child attend the school that he/she would attend if he/she did not have a disability. Make sure that specially designed services and supports are written clearly in the IEP and are being implemented. * Ask what the educational standards are for your child’s same age peers and ask how those standards will be embedded in your child’s daily classroom activities. * Continue to get to know other families who share your high aspirations for your son/daughter. * If your child is in the mental retardation system, make sure that your child’s Prioritization of Urgency of Needs (PUNS) and service preference packet is up to date. Your Supports Coordinator will work on this with you. Continue to invite your Supports Coordinator to IEP meetings. * Continue to tell everyone who comes into contact with your child their strengths, interests and talents. * Make sure that your child’s educational day looks like that of their same age peers. Specially designed supports can be provided in extracurricular activities too. * Visit high schools before your child is ready to transition to high school. Ask what the high school has to offer. This includes neighborhood schools, magnet schools, and charter schools that have opportunities that can enrich and challenge your child a she/she moves closer to adulthood. * When you and your child are in the community, look at jobs that people are doing. Talk to your child about jobs and careers that he/she might be interested in. Have expectations of your child to achieve and learn great things! High School Years… * Know what is being offered to the student in the high school and ask how it develops skills and competencies for work, living in the community and making stable friendships. * Assume inclusion. Courses at the high school can be made available to your child and curriculum can be modified. * Get good information about transition planning and services that should be occurring at age 16, if not before. * Expect your child to be employed upon graduation. Get to know available employment resources and providers of employment services. The Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and Mental Retardation Services (MRS) can also be of assistance to you. * Speak out about the importance of inclusive and skills - based education being related to success in adult life. * If your family member is in the mental retardation system make sure that he/she has an updated Prioritization of Urgency of Needs (PUNS) and service preference packet. Otherwise, please call 215-685-4677 for registration information. * Make sure that your family member is involved in extracurricular school activities and community activities. * Continue asking and expecting your son/daughter to want to work and to contribute to his/her community. For general information contact: Marianne Roche, Co-Chair, Supports Coordination Work Group, Philadelphia’s Vision for Employment 2010 at: (215) 685-5930. or Wanda Sabb, Co-Chair, Supports Coordination Work Group, Philadelphia’s Vision for Employment 2010 at: (215) 685-5981 _________________________________________________ This document was developed by the Supports Coordination Work Group of Philadelphia’s Vision for Employment 2010. An initiative of Mental Retardation Services (MRS) and Networks for Training and Development, Inc. funded by the PA Office of Developmental Programs through the City of Philadelphia, Department of Behavioral Health and Mental Retardation Services. Section IV. COMMUNITY RESOURCES community resources Here’s some information and ideas about how to make ‘Community Connections’ What do people want? What do YOU want? Relationships Community Inclusion Freedom Individuality People want Everyday Lives! It’s My City…..I’m finding My Place In It! How do you build Community? Here are some ideas… Turn off your TV! Leave your house! Know your neighbors! Greet people! Buy locally! Be “On the Job!” (see 2010 below) What do people want? What do YOU want? Contributing to the Community Success Choice What is Social Capital? What does it mean to me? How can I build some? Social Capital is connections people make with each other; what we give of ourselves, and what we receive. It’s who you know, and who you don’t yet know. It’s networking. It’s using relationships to benefit yourself and others. It applies to everyone! How can you increase your Social Capital? Join a community group! Welcome a new neighbor! Support local merchants! Sign-up for a class or event! Organize a neighborhood clean-up! Talk to regulars on the bus! What do I like to do? How do I find other people who like what I like, and where they get together in my neighborhood? Check your local newspaper for the Community Events or Calendar. Check out the bulletin boards at your library, supermarket, or community center. Search the Internet to find groups of people who like what you like, and where they meet! Participate in a political campaign! Get involved with Town Watch! Learn computer skills! Go to a place of worship! Have a yard sale! More and more people are hearing and understanding the message – having a job is a huge part of realizing personal satisfaction and community inclusion. Earning money, contributing to the community, opportunities for social interaction, and increasing social capital are all key aspects of how employment can be an important part of building and enjoying an everyday life. Realizing employment outcomes for everyone and creating a ‘culture of employment’ requires collaboration and partnership. What is a culture of employment? It is a belief that people with disabilities belong in the community workforce, earning a living, and a commitment to employment outcomes and the resources to “Make Employment Happen.” Be part of the energy! Do what you can to support efforts to make community employment a reality. Find out how we all can be an “Employment Ambassador.” Help us tell the success stories of people who are working, the barriers they’ve overcome and what employment means to them! Contact Networks for Training and Development (Section V) to find out more. Do you know an Employment Success Story, or want to share your own Employment Success Story? Contact Jeffrey Orlin at jeffrey.orlin@phila.gov or call 215-685-5911. Check out the NEW Philadelphia Vision for Employment 2010 Website! www.philaonthejob.org Get the latest Employment News, Events, Resources, Personal Success Stories and Pictures – Check it out today! See the list of Community Integrated Employment Providers on page Philadelphia’s Vision for Employment 2010 – We’re On the Job! Get Involved! Contact the groups below to get started! Free Library of Philadelphia - 215-686-5322; www.library.phila.gov Books, informational materials for loan and reference, librarians to answer questions, cultural and educational programs. Free Internet access. DVDs, videos, CDs, books on cassette and CD, much more. A Free Library card is available to anyone who lives, works, or goes to school in Phila. Department of Recreation - 215-683-3600; www.phila.gov/recreation Provides all citizens with an array of physical, cultural and artistic activities to enrich the mind, body and soul. They engage children, adults, families and senior citizens in fun and safe recreational activities promoting self-esteem, healthy lifestyles and stronger communities. Town Watch Integrated Services – 215-686-1453; www.phila.gov/townwatch Assists residents with quality of life issues through community policing and participation. Organized blocks are strong, and are the basis for health neighborhoods. People talking to each other, working together, and caring for each other is the sole way of getting things accomplished. Town Watch promotes inclusion, safety and building neighborhood capacity. The following organizations support efforts to develop and increase opportunities for inclusion in community gardening initiatives. The Pennsylvania Horticultural Society 215-988-8800; www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org Landscape Arboretum of Temple University Ambler 1-888-GO-AMBLER ; www.ambler.temple.edu/arboretum That All May Worship - 215-204-1059; ahatten@temple.edu Promotes and supports total inclusion of persons with disabilities in faith communities. This is accomplished through educational and congregational coaching, promoting awareness of need of architectural accessibility, providing individual and family support, and more. Mural Arts Program (MAP) - 215-685-0750; www.muralarts.org Involved in mural making and art education in Phila. The Community Murals arm works with over 100 communities each year to create murals reflecting the culture of our neighborhoods. Partners include block captains, neighborhood associations, non-profits and City agencies. MAP strives to coordinate mural projects with existing strategies for community development, thereby leveraging grassroots social capital to build positive momentum and stronger results. League of Women Voters of Phila. - 215-829-9495 The League is a non-partisan, non-profit organization, working at the local, state and national level. They act on behalf of particular legislation, and promote information about candidates for political office. The organization derives from the proud legacy of the women’s suffrage movement. Today’s members are men and women; any citizen aged 18 or over can join. Voter Registration - 215-686-1505 County Board of Elections - 215-686-3469 Communication, adaptive equipment & assistive technology Communication Mentors Network of Southeastern PA – A project of Networks for Training and Development, Inc., Communication Mentors combine a belief in competence, skepticism of labeling people, and a process to figure out supports that actually are supportive. They offer assessments with people who have limited or unrecognized communication; recommendations of devices, supports and more; group and individual training in current trends and options; and assistance to teams to enhance communication, choice and community involvement. 610-935-6624 or 570-286-7694; www.communicationmentors.org PATF (Pennsylvania Assistive Technology Foundation) – Low interest loans to PA residents of all ages and income levels to purchase assistive devices and services, including computers, vehicle adaptations and home modifications. 1-888-744-1938; www.patf.us PIAT (Pennsylvania’s Initiative on Assistive Technology) – A program of the Institute on Disabilities at Temple University for PA residents with disabilities to help people learn about and decide what assistive technology supports and services they need, and support to acquire what they need. 1-800-204-7428; TTY 866-268-0579; http://disabilities.temple.edu; email Atinfo@temple.edu Education & EMPLOYMENT Related Services School District of Philadelphia – To ensure students leave high school with the skills, connections and experiences needed to be successful in adult life, The School District collaborates with local employers and partners with national, state, local, for-profit and non-profit agencies to offer community-based vocational training and summer work experience for students with disabilities. Contact Donna Cavaliere, Manager, Transition Services, Office of Specialized Services, 215-400-6069; www.phila.k12.pa.us. Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) – State agency helps people with disabilities prepare for, start and maintain a career. OVR works with schools to make sure people who will benefit from transition services receive the information they need. 444 N. 3rd St., 215-560-1900. PA CareerLink – Connecting businesses with qualified people, and connecting people with training, jobs and careers. Find a local office or more information at http://www.pwdc.org/careerlink/offices.html. PA College of Direct Support – A national, web-based curriculum designed for individuals who support people with developmental disabilities. The College is designed to begin to build a common language, enhancing communication and helping everyone to better support the people we serve. The Commonwealth and MRS recognize the value of the work of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs); the curriculum is designed to help DSPs grow and succeed. Individuals and Families also can benefit from the College; there is no charge to individuals and families currently registered with MRS. To register through MRS, contact jacqueline.cooper@phila.gov or 215-685-5924; Karen.Claiborne@phila.gov or 215-685-5937. You may also contact Sherry Graven at cdssupport@tiu11.org. Please note: If you are interested in the ten-week programs described below, please contact your Supports Coordinator. Eligible candidates must receive Community Integrated Employment (CIE) services and have a Job Coach. Community College Opportunity Network (CCON) – Their mission is to provide non-credit college experiences to individuals with developmental disabilities in an inclusive environment. The Network is focused on habilitation experiences leading to competitive employment, and improved ‘quality of life’ experiences. Berean Institute – Operation Success prepares students for the world of work and continuing education, where one can ‘learn to earn.’ The focus of Operation Success is on students becoming employed and building social skills. Academy for Adult Learning at Temple University – The Academy supports individuals with developmental disabilities to fully participate in classes and community life at Temple. Day and evening classes offer an opportunity for students to pursue their individual interests in a wide variety of subjects. Useful Internet Resources www.phila.gov/dbhmrs - The homepage of MRS! Find registration and service information, news of upcoming events and Family Forum newsletter. www.philly.networkofcare.org - Empower yourself! Service and supports for mental retardation, behavioral health, or addictions. Find advocacy and support groups, track legislation and news, and register your opinion on city, state and national issues. Create a personal folder! https://www.hcsis.state.pa.us - HCSIS is the Commonwealth’s Home and Community Services Information System. Individuals, families and circles of support can search the Services and Supports Directory to find services and providers in PA, and other information. www.dpw.state.pa.us - PA Department of Public Welfare; links and information on a variety of programs. www.collegeofdirectsupport.com/pa - A web-based curriculum for consumers, family members and staff who support people with disabilities. www.phillyfunguide.com - Links to recreation, cultural programs and events. www.bestbuddiespennsylvania.org - The mission of Best Buddies PA is to enhance the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment. www.phillysos.org - crisis response site with access to over 3,000 organizations listed by category and zip code. www.phillyfreecycle.org - Volunteer run website for its members that posts things needed and things available to members. Postings are free! Recreation “It’s Fun to Have Fun in Southeastern PA” – Produced by Vision for Equality, this book assists people with disabilities and their caregivers in finding activities throughout the southeast region. Visit gardens, nature centers, museums, stables, zoos and art galleries. Many places listed are free and accessible. Available free on their website www.visionforequality.org, or bound copies can be purchased by calling 215-923-3349. CAMPS As in other aspects of planning for an individual’s supports and services, the process for planning for camp should begin with the Supports Coordinator. For those receiving services through the Waiver (P/FDSW or Consolidated), only those camps listed in the DPW Services and Supports Directory (SSD), or on the approved Vendor List, are eligible for reimbursement. If a camp isn’t listed in the SSD, ask the camp director to contact your SCO to find out how the camp might be enrolled. Here are some resources for finding the camp that is right for you. Philadelphia Department of Recreation – Cultural, sports and other camps, including day camps, at 150 sites throughout Philadelphia. For more information call 215-683-3650; www.phila.gov/recreation and click on camps. American Camping Association – Their accreditation means the camp has been reviewed for the quality of the camp experience as well as standards of health, safety and hiring practices. Free lists of regional camps and other information. 215-886-5385; www.aca-camps.org CampParents.org – Search for camps and other camp resources, geared to families. www.campparents.org. For overnight camps - National Camp Association, 1-800-966-CAMP; www.summercamp.org ARTS & Music Kardon Institute for Arts Therapy - Provider of creative arts therapies for individuals with disabilities and for the agencies that support them. 215-637-2077, 10700 Knights Rd., www.kardoninstitute.org (See Section V) Academy of Community Music – Individual music therapy and adapted private lessons. Their mission is to serve people facing challenges including cognitive disabilities, and developing human promise through music. 215-223-3020, 601 Bethlehem Pike, Fort Washington, www.academyofcommunitymusic.org Oasis – An arts and education program of Resources for Human Development offering classes, open studios and creative interaction, empowering people to realize their creative potential, improve quality of life and gain life skills. 948 N. 8th Street, 215-629-0100, www.oasisartcenter.org Training Networks for Training and Development - For almost 15 years, Networks has designed and delivered relevant, practical, and innovative training, technical assistance, and service demonstration to help people with disabilities have more fulfilling inclusive lives. 123 S. Broad Street, 23rd floor, Phila., PA 19109; 215-546-4111; www.networksfortraining.org (See Sec. V) The Partnership (PA Training Partnership for People with Disabilities and Families), a program of Temple University’s Institute on Disabilities, offers coordinated, consistent training and technical assistance across PA. Created and provided by people with disabilities and families, The Partnership offers power, knowledge, and assistance to citizens eager to contribute to their communities. www.thetrainingpartnership.org; 1-866-865-6170 TTY 215-204-1356. Transportation SEPTA understands the critical role of public transit in making independence and mobility possible. They are dedicated to making it easier for customers to use fixed route and paratransit services. For Customer Service: www.septa.org or Call 215-580-7800, or write to Customer Service Department, 1234 Market St., Phila., PA 19107. SEPTA Customized Community Transportation (CCT) provides paratransit service – ‘CCT Connect’ – to individuals with disabilities and senior citizens. In addition, SEPTA’s bus fleet is 100% accessible. SEPTA offers ADA Paratransit Service and the Shared-Ride Program. For information call 215-580-7145 or log on to www.septa.org Advocacy and Support Philadelphia Parent Support Groups - If you are a parent or family member of a person receiving mental retardation services in Phila. and looking to make a connection in your area, please contact one of the Parent Support Groups listed below, or call Vision for Equality at 215-923-3349 for more information. Parents / Caregivers United Support Group South / East Central Philadelphia Lynn Youngman, 215-928-0765 West & Southwest Parents Together Support Group West / Southwest Philadelphia Almeata Sampson, 215-473-8744 Northwest Family Support Group Germantown, Mount Airy, Chestnut Hill Verna Edwards, 215-248-4415, Sandra Champion, 215-848-3624 There’s A Place For Us Support Group North Philadelphia Margie Austin, 215-991-0301 Roxborough Parent Support Group Roxborough Carol Costello, 215-487-1240 South Philadelphia West Support Group South Philadelphia – West Mary Curcio, 215-462-3477 Northeast Support Group Lower Northeast Barbara or Sharon, 215-923-3349 Far Northeast Support Group Greater Northeast Coleen Rispo, 215-624-5869 J. F. K. Support Group North Central Philadelphia Shanon Hill – 215-462-5536 Consortium Support Group West Philadelphia Leslie Thompson, 215-474-9345 Kensington Support Group Call 215-923-3349 for more information Arc of Phila. - This professional advocacy organization in Phila. serves children and adults; an excellent resource for information, referral, training, planning support. Advocacy for all people with developmental disabilities in Philadelphia, regardless of age. 2350 W. Westmoreland St., Philadelphia, PA 19140; 215-229-4550; www.arcpddc.org (See PDDC, Section V) Speaking for Ourselves is an independent, self-help/self-advocacy grassroots organization run by and for people with developmental disabilities. Their mission is to be an independent community organization controlled by people with disabilities who help people find a voice for themselves; teach the public about the needs, wishes and potential of people with disabilities; speak out on important issues; support each other through sharing, leadership development, and helping and encouraging each other. 502 W. Germantown Pike, Suite 105, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462; 1-800-867-3330; www.speaking.org Vision for EQuality, Inc., offers individual assistance, support, training and monitoring for people with disabilities and their families, as well as systems-wide support for people and their families. The Fialkowski Resource Room offers a wealth of information, computers with internet access and a Resource Center Specialist to help you. The Cast Iron Building, 718 Arch Street, 6N, Philadelphia, PA 19106; 215-923-3349; www.visionforequality.org (See Section V) Walker Center Parenting Project – In 2004 Walker began this project to provide support and in-home services to parents with developmental disabilities and their children. The Walker Parenting Project provides participants with access to a continuum of medical, educational and psychological support services. Walker offers parents and children in the program a safe and supportive environment in which to live, work and play. 304 Old Lancaster Rd, Merion Station PA, 19066; 610-747-0290; www.thewalkercenter.net (See Section V) Health Care Philadelphia Coordinated Health Care (PCHC) offers healthcare support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to maneuver within the healthcare system. PCHC works with individuals, families, agencies and county staff to increase understanding of health issues and access to quality health services. Free of charge. 215-546-0300 x3685; www.pchc.org (See Section V) For Philadelphia residents, the Department of Public Health’s Health Care Centers offer check-ups, blood tests, x-rays, prescription medications, dental care and more. They accept Medicare, Medical Assistance and most health insurance plans. Even if you have no income or insurance, you’ll still receive high-quality care. Check the “Blue Pages” of the phone book for locations. Dental Care Elwyn Philadelphia Dental Clinic, 4040 Market St., 215-895-5533 Elwyn Media Dental Clinic, 111 Elwyn Rd., Elwyn, PA 610-891-2320 Serving special needs populations, the Elwyn Philadelphia Dental Clinic is a full-service dental clinic, including x-rays. The clinic is open five days a week, and is fully wheelchair accessible. IV-conscious sedation is expected to be available in 2008. The clinic accepts Medicaid, managed care Medicaid plans, as well as private insurances. The Media Dental Clinic also serves special needs populations, providing full-service general dentistry. Dentists and staff at both locations provide the extra time and care needed to acclimate patients to the dental office environment. Call for an appointment or for more information. Special Smiles, LTD – A state of the art dental facility specializing in the treatment of patients with emotional, behavioral, physical, cognitive and developmental disabilities. Patients are individuals with disabilities whose routine dental care services may not be provided by a general dentist due to resistance to dental treatment, maladaptive behaviors or physical limitations. Treatment is rendered using either general anesthesia or IV anesthesia in an outpatient setting. Episcopal Hospital division of Temple University Health System, 100 E. Lehigh Ave., Centennial Two, Phila. PA 19125. Hours by appointment, Monday-Friday, call 215-707-0575. Need more help finding a dentist? Contact the following: Community College 18th & Spring Garden 215-751-8625 Phila. County Dental Society (referral to a private dentist) 215-925-6050 Temple Dental, 3223 N. Broad St. 215-707-2900 Univ. of PA Dental, 240 S. 40th St. 215-898-8965 Emergency Telephone Numbers Suicide and Crisis Intervention Hotline (24 hour emergencies) 215-686-4420 Community Behavioral Health (CBH) – A component of the City’s Department of Behavioral Health and Mental Retardation Services, CBH provides behavioral health coverage and access to services for people receiving Medicaid. CBH is located at 801 Market St., 7th floor. For more information call 215-413-3100 or www.phila-bhs.org. For behavioral health emergencies, call 1-888-545-2600. This line is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Poisoning Control Center – 215-386-2100 911 Form – The Phila. Police Department has a form for people with disabilities and families to fill out to voluntarily provide information they feel would assist Police or Fire Department personnel to more effectively respond to an emergency situation at or near their residence. The information would be used by 911 dispatchers to provide information to emergency responders that you feel they would need to know about people with disabilities in your household, in the event of an emergency. The form is available in many languages, large print, audio cassette, and Braille. To get a form or ask questions, contact Sgt. Joe Spera at 215-685-3940 /TDD/TTY 215-685-3943. The English form is available online at www.phila.gov/mcpd/docs/911/911.doc. Si necesita una copia en espanol, por favor llamar al 215-685-3940. See the instructions and a copy of the 911 Form (Police Department Computer Assisted Dispatch Information Form) on the next three pages. PHILADELPHIA POLICE DEPARTMENT COMPUTER ASSISTED DISPATCH (CAD) INFORMATION FORM This form is to assist the City of Philadelphia in more effectively responding to an emergency situation that a member of your household with a disability may experience. Please complete the following voluntary questionnaire in full, sign the form, return it by mail, or drop it off at the nearest Police District. If you choose to respond, the information will be submitted into the Philadelphia Police Department’s CAD system for use by Philadelphia’s 911 dispatchers. The purpose is to ensure that 911 dispatchers and emergency response personnel are aware, in advance, of any information you feel they would need to know about people with disabilities in your household in the event of an emergency. Responding to this questionnaire is purely voluntary. You may choose to respond on behalf of all of your household members or only certain household members. If you choose to respond to this questionnaire, please be sure to provide your signature on the last page. (Your signature gives us the permission we need to process this information - without it the information cannot be processed.) In addition, this information will be removed from our files periodically therefore this form must be submitted every two (2) years to ensure that our files are accurate. Please notify Police Radio Training at 685-3940 if there is any change to the information you provide. (i.e. change of address, phone number, etc.) QUESTIONS Your answers to the following questions on the attached form will assist police, fire or medical personnel when they are responding to an emergency or other call from your home, in identifying and/or assisting you, or a person in your household who has a disability. Do not include information on medications in your response. (APPLICATIONS WITHOUT ADDRESSES OR SIGNATURES CAN NOT BE ENTERED INTO THE SYSTEM.) This form is available in large print, audio-cassette, Braille and Spanish Si necesita una copia en espanol, por favor llamar al (215) 685-3940 A. Head of Household (18 years of age or older) or Agency: 1. NAME______________________________________ AGE ________ DOB _____/_____/_____ M F mo day yr 2. NAME______________________________________ AGE ________ DOB _____/_____/_____ M F mo day yr ADDRESS ________________________________________________ APT. # ____________________________ PHILADELPHIA, PA ZIP___________________ TELEPHONE ( ) __________________________________________ B. Does any member of your household have a disability? (Fill in blanks and Check all that apply) 1. Name_____________________________________________ Age______ DOB_____/_____/_____ mo day yr Race__________ Sex: Male Female Height__________ Weight_____________ blind/low vision deaf/hard of hearing communication seizure mental retardation physical disability mental illness other_______________ 2. Name_____________________________________________ Age______ DOB_____/_____/_____ mo day yr Race__________ Sex: Male Female Height_________ Weight______________ blind/low vision deaf/hard of hearing communication seizure mental retardation physical disability mental illness other________________ 3. Name_____________________________________________ Age______ DOB_____/_____/_____ mo day yr Race___________ Sex: Male Female Height_________ Weight_____________ blind/low vision deaf/hard of hearing communication seizure mental retardation physical disability mental illness other_______________ C. Does anyone in your household use a TDD/TTY? Yes No D. Do you live alone? Yes No (OVER) E. Please use the space below to provide any additional information you feel that the Philadelphia Police or Fire Department should be aware of in order to more effectively respond to an emergency situation in your household. Is there a key holder to your property or someone to be notified in case of an emergency? ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ IMPORTANT: By signing this questionnaire, I acknowledge that the information provided above was done so voluntarily for the sole purpose of assisting the Police and Fire Departments, through their 911 system and emergency response personnel, to more effectively respond to a potential emergency in or near my household. I also understand that providing this information in no way entitles me or anyone in my household to preferential treatment, nor will it result in a more timely response by emergency response personnel. It is simply an attempt to provide emergency response personnel with information, which may be helpful when providing service to residents or occupants of my home. IS THIS A RENEWAL APPLICATION? Yes No Signature(s) Head (s) of Household__________________________________________Date __________ __________________________________________Date __________ Mail form to: Police Headquarters Franklin Square Communications Division Room 213 Philadelphia, PA 19106 ATTN: Sgt. Joseph Spera If you have any questions about this form, please call: Sgt. Joseph Spera, Police Radio Training at (215) 685-3940 (voice) or (215) 685-3944 (fax) or (215) 685-3943 (TDD/TTY). (11-16-2000) Section V. SERVICE PROVIDER DESCRIPTIONS Information about service providers in this Directory has been provided directly by the service provider. Inclusion or exclusion of a provider from the following Service Provider Descriptions is neither an endorsement nor a rejection of a particular provider. Individuals and families should consider all available information when making decisions about prospective service providers. Asking the right questions when visiting a prospective service provider, reviewing information about quality and satisfaction, and checking references of other individuals served by a provider can help you to make decisions. Also, please use the guidelines shown in Sections III-C and III-D of this Directory to help you ask questions about services and supports that are right for you. For additional information, please contact a service provider directly, or check their website. V-A Alphabetical Listing of Service Providers AHEDD ……………………………………………………………………. Page 69 Allegheny Valley School (AVS) …………………………………………… Page 70 Arnold, Kerry, LSW ……………………………………………………….. Page 71 Associated Production Services, Inc. (APS) ……………………………….. Page 72 At Home Rehab ……………………………………………………………. Page 73 Avante Tutoring ……………………………………………………………. Page 74 Barber National Institute, Dr. Gertrude A. ………………………………… Page 75 BARC…………………………………………………………………….… Page 76 Bayada Nurses……………………………………………………………… Page 77 Brian’s House………………………………………………………………. Page 78 Careful Therapeutics……………………………………………………….. Page 79 CareLink Community Support Services …………………………………… Page 80 Carousel Farms …………………………………………………………….. Page 81 Casmir Care Services, Inc…………………………………………………… Page 82 CATCH…………………………………………………….……………….. Page 83 Catholic Social Services…………………………………………………….. Page 84 ChildLink/Philadelphia Health Management Corporation (PHMC)……….. Page 14 Children and Adult Disability and Educational Services (CADES)………... Page 86 Comfort Keepers …………………………………………………………… Page 87 COMHAR…………………………………………………………………… Page 88 Community Care Center of the Northeast ………………………………….. Page 89 Community Integrated Services (CIS) ……………………………………… Page 90 Consortium Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) .………………….. Page 15 Delta Community Supports, Inc. …………………………………………… Page 91 Devereux Whitlock ………………………………………………………….. Page 92 Diversified Support Services…………………………………………………. Page 93 Easter Seals of Southeastern Pennsylvania ….………………………………. Page 94 Ellison Nursing Group, LLC ………………………………………………… Page 95 Elwyn ….………………………………………………………………….…. Page 96 EMAN Community Living, Inc. …………………………………………….. Page 97 Griswold Special Care ……..………………………………………………… Page 98 Hall-Mercer CMH/MRC …….……………………………………………… Page 99 Hall-Mercer Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) ……..……………. Page 16 HELPsource Home Health Services……………………………………….… Page 100 Holy Family University Counseling Center and Disability Services ……….. Page 101 Home Care for Independent Living …………………………………………. Page 102 Home Health Specialists ……………………………………………………. Page 103 Horizon House ……………………………………………………………… Page 104 Infinite Care, Inc. …………………………………………………………… Page 105 Institute on Disabilities at Temple University ……………………………… Page 106 Intercommunity Action, Inc. (Interac)……………………………………… Page 107 JEVS Human Services …………………………..…………………………. Page 108 Jewish Community Homes for Adult Independence (J’CHAI)…………….. Page 109 John F. Kennedy Community Mental Health/Mental Retardation Center….. Page 110 Kardon Institute for Arts Therapy…………………………………………... Page 111 Kaye, Susan Ph.D. ………………………………………………………….. Page 112 Ken-Crest Services ………………………………………………………….. Page 113 Kensington Community Corp. for Individual Dignity (KenCCID) ………… Page 114 Lynch Homes ……………………………………………………………….. Page 115 Maxim Healthcare Services …….….………………….……………………. Page 116 Melmark …………………………..………………………………………... Page 117 Mental Retardation Services (MRS)………………………………………… Page 17 Mentor ………………………………………………………………………. Page 118 Networks for Training and Development…………………………………… Page 119 NHS Human Services ………………………………………………………. Page 120 Northeast Community Center for MH/MR ……..………………………….. Page 121 Oswald, Michael J. ………………………………………………………….. Page 122 Overbrook Friedlander………………………………………………………. Page 123 Partnership for Community Supports………………………………………. Page 18 People Acting To Help, Inc. (PATH)………………………………………. Page 124 Pennsylvania School for the Deaf………………………………………….. Page 125 Pennsylvania School for the Deaf /Ctr. for Community/Professional Svcs… Page 85 PersonLink…………………………………………………………………… Page 19 Philadelphia Association for Independent Support Brokers ………………… Page 126 Philadelphia Coordinated Health Care (PCHC)……………………………. Page 127 Philadelphia Developmental Disabilities Corporation (PDDC)…………….. Page 128 Preferred Home Care ……………………………………………………….. Page 129 Programs Employing People (PEP)………………………………………… Page 130 Quality Progressions………………………………………………………… Page 20 R-House, Inc. ……………………………………………………………….. Page 131 RecCare, Inc. ……………………………………………………………….. Page 132 Resources for Human Development, Inc. (RHD)…………………………… Page 133 RP Home Care …….……………….……………………………………….. Page 134 Salvation Army Developmental Disabilities Program……………………… Page 135 Special People in Northeast, Inc. (SPIN, Inc.) ……;;………………………. Page 136 Special Vacations………………………………………… Page 137 Step-By-Step, Inc………………………………………………………….. Page 138 St. John’s Community Services Supported Employment Program………… Page 139 Sunny Days Early Childhood Developmental Services …………………… Page 140 Supportive Behavioral Resources, Inc. …………………………………….. Page 141 Supportive Care, Inc. ………………………………………………………. Page 142 Tabor Children’s Services, Inc. ……………………………………………. Page 143 The Association for Independent Growth Inc. (TAIG)……………………. Page 144 Theraplay…………………………………………………………………… Page 145 Therapy Solutions Children’s Services…………………………………….. Page 146 Thorncroft Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Inc. …………………………… Page 147 Travel Seekers ……………………………………………………………… Page 148 Tri-State Clinical Support Services, Inc……………………………………. Page 149 UCP of Philadelphia and Vicinity……………………………………..…… Page 150 Unlimited Staffing Solutions, Inc. …………………………………………. Page 151 Values Into Action…………………………………………………………. Page 152 Variety Club ……………………………………………………………….. Page 153 Village Care Family Services ………………….………………….………………. Page 154 Vision for Equality, Inc. ………………………………………….……………….. Page 155 Visiting Nurse Group Inc. ……………………………….……….………………... Page 156 Volunteers of America – Delaware Valley ………………………………………… Page 157 Walker Center ……………………..………………………………………..……… Page 158 WES Health Centers (Dr. Warren E. Smith) ……………………………………….. Page 159 V-B Agencies Providing Services Listing by Category Early Intervention (Ages Birth to Three, and Three to Five; some agencies provide both) Following is a list of the Agencies that provide these services: BARC ChildLink Children and Adult Disability and Educational Services COMHAR, Inc. Easter Seals Elwyn Ken-Crest Services Northeast Community Center for MH/MR NHS Pennsylvania School for the Deaf Resources for Human Development (RHD) RP Homecare (Ridgaway Philips) Special People in Northeast, Inc. (SPIN Inc.) Sunny Days Early Childhood Developmental Services The Consortium Theraplay, Inc. Therapy Solutions United Cerebral Palsy Association (UCP) of Philadelphia Village Care Family Services WES Health Centers (Dr. Warren E. Smith) Children’s Services (Also includes Children’s Residential) Following is a list of the Agencies that provide these services: BARC COMHAR, Inc. Easter Seals Elwyn Intercommunity Action (Interac) Ken-Crest Services Lynch Homes Melmark Mentor Northeast Community Center for MH/MR NHS Human Services PATH, Inc. Pennsylvania School for the Deaf Resources for Human Development (RHD) RP Homecare (Ridgaway Philips) Special People in Northeast, Inc. (SPIN, Inc.) Sunny Days Early Childhood Developmental Services Tabor Childrens’ Services Theraplay, Inc. Therapy Solutions Village Care Family Services, Inc. WES Health Centers (Dr. Warren E. Smith) Home and Community Habilitation (also known as In-Home Supports) Following is a list of the Agencies that provide these services. Also please refer to the list of New Providers below. Bayada Community Care Center of Northeast Devereux-Whitlock Elwyn Horizon House J’CHAI Jewish Employment & Vocational Service (JEVS) KenCrest Mentor NHS Human Services/Woodhaven PATH Philadelphia Developmental Disabilities Corporation Special People in Northeast, Inc. (SPIN, Inc) Step-by-Step, Inc. The Association for Independent Growth, I