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Staff at the Hawaii ADRC were oriented to the ADRC model and trained in vital customer service and communications skills using these materials. The outline lists the objectives and time needed for training exercises. Two curriculum grids, one for ADRC orientation and one for customer service skills, list training areas, outcomes, and methods. Each grid contains materials for both paid staff and volunteers.

This graphic shows how information requests from or about people with long-term care needs are handled in Ohio. The illustrated processes include the information request, intake and referral, assessment, and follow-up and evaluation.

The first in a series on housing issues, this brief provides an overview of various federal and state housing financing programs that can be used to support low income workers with disabilities. The brief also summarizes the related nature of housing and employment services and the impacts of the current housing market on employees with disabilities. The series is meant to provide information to MIG grantees and help them create linkages with agencies providing direct housing services.

The author interviewed individuals with serious mental illnesses to illustrate their experiences, motivations, and ambitions in the workplace. The stories and analysis challenge misconceptions about this population’s abilities and willingness to work. Rich work histories show that the career patterns of this group do not vary dramatically from those of people with less severe mental illnesses.

Health care experts from diverse fields give their opinions in this survey. The 196 leaders identified the most pressing long-term care (LTC) issues as development of the workforce, improving quality, and securing financing. 76% believe policymakers must urgently deal with the challenge of forming a sufficient supply of home and community-based services. Other themes dealt with include insurance, financial responsibility, a Medicare LTC benefit, and regulatory action.

Prior to this bill mandating improved access to home and community-based long-term care (LTC) services, Tennessee was paying 98% of LTC funds to nursing homes. The act rebalances funding allocation and creates a single point of entry for older adults seeking LTC. It also supports diversion from and transition out of institutions through HCBS counseling and improved needs assessment. It was signed into law 06/17/2008.

NASHP produced this report and webinar to help states provide Medicaid and SCHIP coverage to youth involved with or exiting foster care and juvenile justice systems. The report focuses on simplifying enrollment, enhancing retention through transitions, and integrating services with partners. The webinar slides present the report findings in brief and highlight programs in New Mexico and Washington that focus on the juvenile justice system and youths released from incarceration.

In 2000, Rhode Island launched an initiative called “Rhodes to Independence” (RTI) to promote systems changes that reduce barriers to employment. RTI focuses on health care, transportation, housing, youth transitions, and diversity. Below, find RTI’s 2005 annual report, a recruitment brochure for the RI Business Leadership Network, and brochures in English and Spanish advertising Sherlock, a health insurance program for employed people with disabilities.

AAHSA provides information and resources on legislative, operational, and legal issues and opportunities affecting HCBS providers. The site is geared toward provider agencies and provides breaking news, email listservs, and articles and advice organized by topic.

Thanks to the steadily increasing demand for home care, the second fastest-growing occupation in the country is that of personal and home care aides (PHCAs). Yet PHCA wages - which were low to begin with - are failing to keep up with inflation nationwide. A new publication looks at the decline in inflation-adjusted wages. Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, it charts the wages received by personal and home care aides in all 50 states and the nation over a seven-year period.