MEDICAID WAIVER RULE CHANGES IN 2019
If you would like information about federal changes to Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs for 2019, there are a few good resources. The Council on Quality and Leadership has a free toolkit for download in addition to several other publications that may be of interest. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services provide the final regulation with other key information on their Medicaid.Gov website. As we move closer to 2019, we will provide you with additional information on how the State of Illinois plans to address the HCBS regulations.
LEGISLATIVE INFORMATION
CCAR is primarily funded by the Illinois Department of Human Services – Division of Developmental Disabilities. At times, the State of Illinois may decide to increase or decrease funding for community agencies, change service requirements, provide for cost of living increases, and/or propose changes in legislation that would impact services. As a tax-payer and/or a stakeholder of our agency, you may wish to contact your local legislators to voice your opinions. At times, you may disagree with how your tax dollars are being spent. While on other occasions, you may want to express your support. CLICK HERE TO VIEW CONTACT INFORMATION FOR OUR LOCAL ILLINOIS AND UNITED STATES LEGISLATORS.
MORE LINKS FOR INDIVIDUALS AND FAMILIES
Below are links to websites that provide useful information for individuals, families, and other citizens who would like to learn more about disability-related topics:
Need help finding your way through the developmental disability system in Illinois? The Illinois Department of Human Services has created this page to help individuals better understand what to expect. The Illinois Council on Developmental Disabilities has an informational document to guide individuals through the process of accessing services.
The Institute on Public Policy for Individuals with Disabilities is an organization that is primarily comprised of service providers. However, they are not a trade association. Their mission is to provide leadership, technical support, and training to change the system in Illinois. Their three goals are to promote a revised Medicaid Waiver that focuses on individualized options, implement a community mobile crisis system that prevents institutionalization, and implementing self-determination.
Illinois Division of Developmental Disabilities is the administrative entity that contracts with private agencies to deliver services. They also administer funding for state operated developmental centers.
Illinois Department of Human Services website contains information about a variety of programs and services, and can help you find a local office in your area.
Prairieland Service Coordination is an Independent Service Coordination (I.S.C.) agency that serves several central Illinois counties including Coles, Cumberland, and Douglas. Services for adults with developmental disabilities are accessed through Independent Service Coordination (I.S.C.) agencies. These are also known as Pre-Admission Screening (P.A.S.) agencies. Independent Service Coordinators or Pre-Admission Screening agents determine eligibility for services for adults with developmental disabilities. Individuals interested in services through the Division of Developmental Disabilities must contact their I.S.C. and ask to complete a Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (P.U.N.S.) form. This form is completed by interview and is the document that enters an individual into the system of services for prioritization and eligibility.
Illinois Association of Rehabilitation Facilities (I.A.R.F.) acts as a voice of human service organizations in government and to provide agencies with individual consultation on issues that affect them. In essence, their goal is to assist in the development and improvement of services in Illinois.
Social Security Administration Red Book is a general reference source about the employment-related provisions of Social Security Disability Insurance and the Supplemental Security Income Programs for individuals with disabilities and service providers. This is typically updated annually.
llinois Life Span is a free information and referral service for people with disabilities. This website is a great resource for individuals who are new to the service system in Illinois.
Office of the Inspector General (O.I.G.) assists agencies and facilities in prevention efforts by investigating all reports of abuse, neglect and mistreatment in a timely manner, to foster humane, competent, respectful and caring treatment of persons with mental and developmental disabilities.
Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (sometimes referred to as “H.F.S.” or “Public Aid”) is responsible for providing healthcare coverage for adults and children who qualify for Medicaid, and for providing Child Support Services to help ensure that Illinois children receive financial support from both parents. The agency is organized into two major divisions, Medical Programs and Child Support Services. In addition, the Office of Inspector General is maintained within the agency, but functions as a separate, independent entity reporting directly to the governor’s office.
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (D.C.F.S.) protects children by strengthening and supporting families. This website provides more information about hotline calls, family reunification, foster care, adoption, and more.
The Coles County Health Department provides health services through prevention, education, health promotion and protection efforts in a manner that promotes optimal health for the individual, the community, and environment.
Information about Cerebral Palsy. This link will give you more information about cerebral palsy and tips on daily living. You may also click here for additional resources or here for support information.
This downloadable Transition Guide will give additional information about services for individuals who are transitioning into adult services.
Located on the shore of Lake Mattoon, Camp New Hope is a year-round recreational experience for individuals with developmental and physical disabilities who are 8 years old and above. They provide a week-long, overnight camp in the summer in addition to a daytime camp. Their staff supervise and assist the campers in accordance with the campers’ needs. Their amenities include a 3-foot swimming pool, miniature golf, asphalt trails, air conditioned cabins, a large respite building, and a pontoon boat. It is a true vacation experience for many individuals who wouldn’t otherwise be able to enjoy a summer get-away!
The regional transportation directory can help you find local transportation providers if you need transportation.