Quality

CMS has developed the final revised working draft of the 1915 (c) HCBS waiver application, Instructions and Technical Guide, Resource Documents, and the CMS Review Instrument. This is the version that CMS is currently automating for use as a web-based application available in Feb 2006. The new application was designed to solicit more complete information from states about the design of their waiver program to better determine whether a proposed waiver has the capacity to meet the requirements.

The Muskie School of Public Service has complied over 15 tools and surveys. Included in the report are Participant Experience Surveys, Performance Indicators, Experience Surveys, Core Indicators, Consumer Surveys, Behavioral Risk Factors, Outcome Measures, and a variety of Quality Measures. Review the sample questions and tools shown in this Compendium of Quality Indicators.

As part of the Real Choice grant activities, Maine identified the need for a survey of consumers on the Consumer Directed Physically Disabled Waiver. This report provides the results of the in-home survey that was conducted by the Muskie School. The survey results identified some areas of focus and opportunities for increased training. Based on survey results, changes were made to the emergency back up plans, training with adaptive equipment and CNA registries.

Maine's Real Choice Systems Change Initiative has done work in four major areas: Data integration, Quality, Access and Person-Centered Services. This paper reports on the accomplishments at the conclusion of Quality Choices I. Report sections include: Background, Goals and Objectives, Project Selection, Pre-Design Planning, System Design, Challenges, Lessons Learned, Next Steps and Sustainability. The appendices offer examples of Critical Event Intake & Triage Forms plus a BEAS Event Form.

This report provides summary information on the performance of Maine’s home and community based care system. The data can be used to identify areas where the system is working and people are satisfied and also points to areas where further analysis would be helpful. The quality indicators are for the following programs: Older Adults and Adults with Disabilities, Adults with Physical Disabilities - Who Self Direct and Adults with Mental Retardation/Autism.

The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) is seeking proposals from parties interested in organizing and executing an independent evaluation of PASSPORT (Preadmission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today), the state's home and community-based services Medicaid waiver program. The program provides in-home alternatives to nursing home care for low-income seniors. The RFP and supporting material serve as an example of the products necessary to produce during a proposal process.

A questionnaire was emailed to the primary agencies in each state that are responsible for services to people with developmental disabilities. The main purpose of the survey was to determine if states had data systems that might be purchased and or modified to address the needs of Colorado’s DDD. States were asked if they had a computerized data system and a list of the features and functions. The 15 responses are helpful in understanding technology baselines and promising practices.

Quality Communication #10 represents another in a series of CMS communications to support state efforts to improve the quality of services and supports. The letter announces the final revised working draft of the 1915 (c) Waiver Application, Instructions and Technical Guide, Resource Documents, and the CMS Review Instrument. This is the version that CMS is currently automating for use as a web-based application available for use in early February 2006.

The Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) issued a RFP for an independent contractor to conduct consumer surveys by soliciting consumer feedback. DADS provides a comprehensive array of aging and disability services, supports, and opportunities that are easily accessed in local communities. The project will survey people recieving services through face to face interviews and mailings. This document serves as a guide for other grantees looking to prepare an RFP.

Minnesota's Shared Master Index will allow for the efficient exchange of information. By assigning each human services client an individual identification number that is used across multiple service delivery systems, the Shared Master Index (SMI) will allow caseworkers to view and assess the range of services that individual clients and families are receiving, and allow program managers and policy-makers to improve coordination of services and client outcomes.