All States/Territories

This article explores the benefits and challenges people who have disabilities experience when managing their personal care programs. It also examines how LIFE Accounts would complement social participation opportunities for persons with disabilities.

This report compares strategies of eight states engaged in strengthening consumer participation in long-term care (LTC) policy advocacy. The authors identify several tips for states to encourage consumer advocacy with the goals of increasing the efficacy and accountability of programs. This paper is part of a project funded by CMS to study ways to create a more equitable balance between Medicaid funds for LTC going to institutional services versus community-based supports.

This study published in The Gerontologist indicates a mixed portrait of experience and outcomes between service models and worker groups. On most dimensions of stress and satisfaction, consumer-directed workers report outcomes equal to or more positive than agency workers. The study is comprised of a random sample of 618 telephone interviews with workers in the In-Home Supportive Services program in California.

The Deficit Reduction Act (DRA) of 2005 clarified which case management and targeted case management services are covered by Medicaid. The rule addresses concerns about improper billing of non-Medicaid services to the program by some states, while aiming to ensure comprehensive services that meet the needs of beneficiaries. These documents from CMS are meant to assist practitioners in understanding and abiding by these rules.

The MN Board on Aging, the agency with primary responsibility for MinnesotaHelp.info, issued this RFP with the goal of contracting an organization to maintain the database underpinning the website. The site is an online directory of services helping people in Minnesota find human services, information and referral, financial assistance, and other forms of help. Proposals must be submitted by Friday, May 30, 2008.

This RFP sought a contractor to implement a widely-used system performance measurement and monitoring program for state agencies serving individuals with disabilities. The resource includes a summary pamphlet and a detailed request. Use this example in developing a RFP.

This book and corresponding materials present a strategy for improving the health care workforce serving older adults via expanded education and training, models of care, and public/private programs. The committee proposes a three-prong approach: 1)Enhance the geriatric competence of the entire workforce; 2)Increase the recruitment and retention of geriatric specialists and caregivers; 3)Improve the way care is delivered. The book is available free online or for sale in PDF or hard copy format.

This report provides recommendations for persons with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) or Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) to acquire and maintain employment in Oregon. Currently, the common program for people with TBI/ABI nationally is Vocational Rehabilitation. However, this report suggests expanding services by using a supported employment model with an interdisciplinary team. Major characteristics of this model include paid employment, integrated worksites and ongoing support.

The process for providing persons with disabilities the information, advocacy and counseling necessary for them to best use public benefits and available work incentives to achieve their goals is referred to as benefits incentives planning. Find presentations on benefits planning system development and on encouraging collaboration of agencies to build a statewide, all-participant inclusive benefits planning system in Oregon. Also included is a colorful game board that introduces the concept.

This report outlines an integrated strategy to update the country’s long-term care services infrastructure in preparation for the aging of the population over the next thirty years. Recommendations are focused on the areas of quality, workforce, technology, and financing.