Speak Up about Waiver Changes

February 25, 2022 | by morwebadmin

WHAT: the PA Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) wants YOUR comments on changes in waivers like the consolidated, community living, and person-family directed supports.

WHEN: ODP will consider comments it gets between February 12 and March 14, 2022.

WHY: ODP wants to find out what people think about the changes, and it is a rule that they must take comments from the public.

HOW: By mail, email, or through an online event. Look below for how to mail or email.

SAPNA is hosting a Zoom call for self advocates to learn more and speak up!

Friday March 11, 10 am to noon

Check out the information below to learn more about the changes.

Talk them over with someone you trust.

Below, you will also find out how to join the Zoom call.

During the call, we will talk about many things.

Some things to think about are:

What communication services can be done through the waiver?

Would more Communication Specialist services better help people who need them?

Should communication specialists get training from ODP? If so, what kind of training?

What exactly is remote monitoring for supports coordinators? Should that continue? Will that work best for people?

What education and experience should supports coordinators have?

Should remote supports be part of self direction?

Some more things to think about are:

Would more benefits counseling help more people get and keep jobs?

Would companion services at a job, help more people get and keep jobs?

Should supported employment be used for people who go on trips for their work? How might this help?

Would you like to have more control to direct your own services like Art or Music therapies?

Should the job of Supports Broker be clearer? Should they get recertified?

What do you think about being able to get personal protective equipment through your waiver?

Should there be provider qualifications for those who offer residential habilitation (like group homes)? What might those be?

Should there be provider qualifications for those who offer life sharing? What might those be?

Should there be provider qualifications for those who offer supported living? What might those be?

Write some ideas of your questions or comments so you are ready to Speak Up!

Mail comments to:
Julie Mochon, DHS, ODP, 625 Forster Street,
Room 510, Harrisburg, PA 17120.

Email comments to RAodpcomment@pa.gov
using subject header ''Waiver Renewal Comments.''

All SAPNA events are scheduled for eastern standard time and close captioned for those using video.

Families, staff, and guests are welcome to listen and learn.

SAU1 reserves the right to remove anyone from our events who does not follow our ground rules as explained on each call.