Information and Referral

Review a new survey of organizations that provide services within the I&R/A Network. The following themes emerged from the survey: aging and disability networks continue to integrate; the use of technology in I&R/A service delivery is slow to develop; the role of I&R/A organizations is expanding; and there are opportunities for improved coordination and quality service delivery. Review the recommendations that address these themes.

There are many opportunities for states’ Medicaid information systems and administrative functions to be federally subsidized with funding. This brief describes the variety of administrative systems that qualify for federal financial participation (FFP), including the Medicaid Management Information System (MMIS) and health information technology (HIT). The systems are used to support people with disabilities and older adults.

The aging services network is critical for those navigating the “information maze” in order to make informed decisions about long-term services and supports (LTSS). But most of these services do not target the majority of Americans who are private paying consumers. Aging and Disability Resource Centers (ADRCs) are one service that aims to increase the level of services offered to private payers. This report includes the results of a survey measuring ADRCs’ engagement with private payers.

SAMHSA has updated its definition of recovery as it pertains to substance use and mental disorders. This working definition and set of guiding principles reflects the increased role peer supports and Peer Specialists have been playing in mental health programming. This document provides a summary of SAMHSA’s new definitions, as well as a checklist for effectively using peer supports in a variety of mental health programs.

What are the current realities, practices and needs of the I&R field? The Version 7.0 of the AIRS Standards is a comprehensive upgrade to the guide that offers foundation and credentialing outlines. Some of the changes from the previous version are relatively minor such as modifications in the wording of the Standard or relocation of a Quality Indicator to another Standard, to add clarity. In addition to these changes, there is the creation of a new Technology Standard (Standard 25).

This report introduces a set of criteria that were developed to assist states measure and assess their progress toward developing fully functioning Single Entry Point Systems (SEP)/ADRCs. These criteria and recommended metrics are intended to be applicable across different types of ADRC models.

This document describes the State of Maryland’s plan on aging in accordance with Older Americans Act requirements. The plan describes the mission, objectives, and strategies of the Maryland’s Department of Aging to coordinate services for older adults. Maryland’s department has a mission to enable older citizens to age with independence and dignity. This Plan describes Maryland’s aging demographics as well as different programs and approaches for its aging population.

Oregon’s CLP Options Counseling Protocol provides guidance for receiving, contacting, meeting and communicating with referrals for options counseling through the Community Living Program (CLP) grant. This could serve as a template for other organizations seeking to develop Options Counseling procedures.

Review this guide that outlines steps in the options counseling process. Find a detailed version of Utah’s Options Counseling Decision Tree, from initial point of contact to follow-up, as well as a one page flowchart representing a condensed view of these processes.

Are you looking to develop an Options Counseling training program? Explore Nevada's training materials including a presentation with information on what options and benefits counseling are, efficient ways to establish dialogue with a consumer, tips on conducting the Nevada Options Assessment, a listing of public resources and funding options. Also included are a role playing activity and a pre-test to obtain a baseline measure of knowledge.