At the end of last week, I sent a quick update to folks who have attended INW’s community forums over the past year and thought I’d post some of those details to our blog as well. As always, keep the questions coming and we’ll do our best to keep you updated with the latest info during this time of change. Happy Monday!

  •  The State hasn’t yet released the updated version of the Adult Needs Assessment (which scores for inclusion-type supports) but we’ll let you know once it’s out. In the meantime, here is the version currently being used.
  • If you are a provider and you still have not received your provider number, the DHS Provider Relations Unit is the party responsible for helping sort the issues out. Please call 1-800-241-3013 or email them at SPD.ProviderNumber@state.or.us.
  • The Oregon Home Care Commission has recently updated its website. Check out the new Personal Support Worker forms and training options here.
  • At the end of last week,  the State has posted a brand new eXPRS Payment System Facebook page. This is a good opportunity for you to get information, ask questions, and comment directly in a public format. Visit the page here.
  • The State has rescheduled its eXPRS training sessions for Provider Organizations. Check out the details here.
  • This is a big one: The State is in contract negotiations with TNT Fiscal Intermediary Services to take over payment to all Personal Support Workers (Domestic Employees and most Independent Contractors) effective July 1st. This requires that some providers (namely ICs) fill out additional paperwork immediately. Read about it here in the INW Blog post and FAQ written by Ron Spence. Time is of the essence on this, so be sure you take a few minutes to read the details.
  • The TNT FI change also creates paperwork for some customers. Approximately 90 INW customers will be receiving some fiscal intermediary forms in the mail. If you need help understanding the forms or their purpose, we’re here to help. Give your PA a ring.
  • On the new rates front, there’s a version of Supported Employment and Day Habilitation rates circulating. The final version is due out via State transmittal by the end of the month. If you’d like to view the most recent version of the Expenditure Guidelines, check them out here. Keep an eye on our blog and Facebook page for the final release.
  • And, last but not least – Brokerages and Counties will be trained on the new Supported Employment expectations in July and August. As we get finalized details on changing expectations and processes, we will get those out to you. We look forward to partnering with you to bring the increased employment outcomes our community so sorely needs.

Here’s to a great week!

-Larry Deal, Executive Director