by independence northwest | Dec 28, 2015 | 2015 changes, 2016 changes, independent contractors, personal support workers, policy
Please note that this message applies only to contractors who have current contracts with Independence Northwest customers.
The new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between The Service Employees United International (SEIU) and The Oregon Department of Human Services (DHS) eliminates independent contractors as a support option for brokerage customers effective 03.31.2016. (IMPORTANT NOTE: Behavior consultants are not subject to the collective bargaining agreement and should disregard this post unless they also provide PSW supports.)
Existing independent contractors have two options:
- Become PSW Specialists: This is a new designation that is limited to currently-qualified independent contractors. ICs who choose this option will become the employees of customers or customer designates.
- Become Provider Organizations: A provider organization is a business licensed and certified by the state or Oregon.
This post addresses only the process for Independent Contractors who are becoming PSW Specialists.
How do we get from here to there? There are number of moving parts to this transition and there isn’t a lot of time to get it done. The state expects all paperwork to be completed and turned in by 02.02.2016. That doesn’t leave us many working days to get things done. The state’s transmittal covers a lot of ground and I recommend you read it carefully, but please note that it contains a significant error as well as an important omission. In a moment we’ll walk through what steps an IC needs to take to make sure he or she is ready to go when we get to 04.01.2016, but first I want to offer a correction and an amendment to the state’s memo. Understanding these is crucial to making the transition smooth.
Correction to the State’s Transmittal
The state’s transmittal says “If PSW’s existing PEAA and CHC expires after June 30, 2016, a new PEAA and CHC is not necessary. The documents for renewing PEAA and CHC must be submitted at least 55 days prior to the current credentials expiring.”
The problem with this statement is that it’s true ONLY if the IC has been operating his or her business using his or her social security number and has used that social security number on his or her Provider Enrollment Agreement (PEAA) with the state. Any IC who has used a federal tax ID number (FEIN) in lieu of a personal social security number MUST fill out a new PEAA regardless of when their current one expires.
Omission in the State’s Transmittal
Because a PSW Specialist will now be an employee rather than a contractor, a federal form I-9 has to be completed for everyone making the transition. This is a huge deal because the feds require a face to face meeting to complete this form. That means every person making the transition has to make an appointment to see us. The appointments will only take a few minutes each but we have to do a lot of them before February 2nd.
What You Need to Do
- Any IC working with our customers need to fill out a TNT employee packet for each customer with whom you work. You can download the packet here or you can request one from Rachel Kroll in our office. The packet contains the following items:
- Demographic page (Name, address, employer name, etc.)
- 2016 W-4 (IRS form for tax withholding)
- Declaration of Relationship (identifies the relationship between the employer – usually the customer- and you as the employee)
- Direct Deposit form (Yes, you’ll be filling out these yet again.)
- Any IC who has used a Federal Tax Identification Number (FEIN) as a contractor will need to fill out a new PEAA (download one by clicking here.) We have no record of who used a Social Security Number and who used an FEIN on their existing PEAAs and neither the state nor TNT has provided us with a list. If you have ANY doubt about it I strongly suggest you fill a new one out using your SSN. I also strongly suggest you turn your PEAA in to us so that we can keep a record of its submission to the state.
- All ICs need to make an appointment to come by our office so that we can fill out an I-9 with you. Unfortunately the feds (The Department of Homeland Security to be exact) require a face to face meeting for this. There is no way around it. When you come to the meeting you will need to bring either:
- An unexpired passport OR
- An unexpired state-issued ID AND your social security card
- Please note: All documents must be originals. No copies please.
We have a lot of work to do on the customer side but that shouldn’t affect you as a provider. However, we may ask for your assistance if we’re having trouble getting paperwork returned by a customer you see regularly. Customer paperwork also has a 02.02.2016 deadline.
The contact for all these paperwork in our office is Rachel Kroll. You can reach her by phone or email starting on December 31st at 503.546.2950 or rkroll@independencenw.org
Rachel will be available to make appointments starting on December 31st. Please do not delay in calling to make an appointment. Time is of the essence on this project. Anyone who does not have their paperwork turned in by February 2nd may have to quit working starting on April 1st. The state has been very clear that there will be no exceptions.
Thank you,
Ron Spence, Operations Director
by independence northwest | Jun 4, 2015 | 2015 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, k plan, policy, provider organizations, providers, resource, training
Since the State of Oregon Department of Human Services began taking on Personal Support Worker and provider payment through its eXPRS system, one of the most common questions brokerages have received from providers is “Did you get my timesheet?”
There’s a relatively easy way for providers to access this information via eXPRS. ODDS’ Julie Harrison and her team have created a How To guide entitled “How to Find/View Plan of Care Service Claims”. Check out the guide by clicking here. You’ll learn how to read the eXPRS screens and determine where your payment claim is in the process. Be sure to bookmark this guide for future reference. (Of note: eXPRS refers to hours or miles keyed into its system as SDEs – Service Delivered Entries.)
One additional note: If you are sending invoices or timesheets via email, please be sure to use the billing@independencenw.org email address. If you are faxing invoices or timesheets, please be sure you receive a return confirmation that the fax was received.
Thanks for your continued partnership through the ongoing systemic changes. Your work is very much appreciated.
by independence northwest | Dec 17, 2014 | 2014 changes, 2015 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, providers, resource
In January 2015, the Oregon Department of Human Services is putting on a series of trainings on their electronic billing system eXPRS. The trainings are specifically geared toward Personal Support Workers. You may attend a training at any of the sites below, whether or not you serve individuals at the hosting brokerage or county. The Independence Northwest training will be held on January 13th. Be sure to RSVP by emailing ODDS.training@state.or.us.
by independence northwest | Nov 25, 2014 | 2014 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, Uncategorized, union
This morning, brokerages received the following information from the Oregon Office of Developmental Disabilities Services:
Approximately 400 Home Care Workers and Personal Support Workers checks will be issued tonite and put in the mail tomorrow. These checks are a fairshare correction. Even if a person has direct deposit, a check will be issued for them…
If the HCW or PSW have questions please refer them to contact SEIU at 877-451-0002.
by independence northwest | Nov 21, 2014 | 2014 changes, advocacy, caregivers, domestic employees, independent contractors, k plan, policy, provider organizations, providers, resource
By Larry Deal, Executive Director of Independence Northwest
Over the past year and a half, so much time has been spent deconstructing and reconstructing Oregon’s Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities system, there’s been little opportunity to sit back and celebrate some of the successes. Here are five things that are currently working well – and that deserve their moment in the sun.
People are getting more services. With the change from 100% Title XIX Waiver to a mix of K Plan and Waiver funding, Oregonians with intellectual and developmental disabilities are getting more services than ever before. This is a wonderful thing. Historically, people in crisis situations had limited resources and little option other than out of home placement (group homes and foster care homes) whether that was their preference or not. In the new system, many Oregonians now have the resources to continue living at home; the current design supports true individual and family choice. The importance of this change cannot be overstated. (That said, there’s still a very real fiscal sustainability discussion that must be had to support these efforts long-term.)
Providers are beginning to expand capacity. This one’s a slower burner, but it’s beginning. Customers, families, and professionals have all been highly concerned about the increase in funding since it came without an ounce of provider capacity expansion planning or incentives. Oregon put the funding before the resources. In recent weeks and months, many agencies have begun reaching out to brokerages and are expanding their services to our community in everything from in-home to employment supports; in 2015, I believe we will see a tangible increase in options for our customer base.
There’s a recent willingness for course correction when things aren’t working. If you haven’t heard of DSA (Day Support Activities,) consider yourself lucky. In short, DSA was an exercise in rushed change implementation. Ultimately, it changed rates, it changed processes, and it changed the definition of certain services. The process upended Brokerage, CDDP (Community Developmental Disabilities Program) and provider organization operations and damaged the integrity of reporting systems statewide. However, collaborative efforts (led by ODDS) amongst brokerages, CDDPs (counties), providers, and state has made a real difference. Recent changes in leadership have assured a common sense, customer-first approach to problem solving. In other words, there’s strong collaboration happening again in Oregon. This is a very good thing – let’s do more of it.
We’re sticking with our current needs assessment tool. One of the major concerns brokerages have been facing while implementing the still-new functional needs assessment has been knowing full well we’d have to change assessments again at the beginning of 2015. Recent actions from the state suggest that we will be working to make the current brokerage tool (the Adult Needs Assessment) work well into the future. For brokerage customers, this is promising. We need consistency, stability, and some time to do some in-depth analysis on the efficacy of the current tool first. This decision deserves kudos.
Perhaps most significantly, Oregon is focusing on individual goals – again. If you have been working in the system or receiving services for the last year and a half, you’ve no doubt noted the troubling focus on deficits-based language and approach. I remember being in a meeting very, very early on in the K Plan implementation when it was announced by someone with significant influence that “this is no longer about goals, it’s about needs.” Soon, that refrain began to echo. Fortunately, that interpretation is no longer alive and well. What some people didn’t understand early on in the transition process was this: Brokerages have always addressed disability-related support needs. And we have done so while helping people reach their goals. You don’t provide publicly-funded services without making sure needs are documented and necessary. A sophisticated, supportive, holistic system addresses health and safety while placing a premium on the wants, needs, and goals of the individual. We know it can work because we’ve been doing it for thirteen years. I can’t say enough how pleasing it is to hear high-ranking leaders in our state stating that goals matter.
There are many issues we must continue wrestling with: the eXPRS payment system and pending Personal Support Worker entry, the monthly versus annual services issue, the ongoing review of Behavioral Supports, changes to supported employment, and many more. But as we inch ever closer to the new year, it’s safe to say that we all hope for continued positive developments in the Oregon I/DD service delivery system. We’re a resilient, engaged, and growing community. Fingers crossed we can focus the coming year’s efforts on enhancing, expanding, and enriching the lives and experiences of the individuals, families, and communities we support. Oregon was once at the forefront of community-based services in our country; with continued focus, effort, and partnership there’s no reason that can’t be a reality again.
by independence northwest | Nov 17, 2014 | 2014 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, providers, resource
UCP Connections, a fellow support services brokerage, recently began a field testing of the Oregon Office of Developmental Disabilities‘ upcoming transition to paying Personal Support Workers (both Domestic Employees and Independent Contractors) through its payment system (eXPRS.) Effective January 1, 2015, all PSWs will be paid directly through the state’s eXPRS payment system. As part of the field testing, UCP and ODDS’s Julie Harrison are offering up trainings for Personal Support Workers They have opened up these opportunities to PSWs throughout the metro area. Please see dates below.
To register: contact Maggie Deeks at maggied@ucpconnections.org or (503) 546 2991 ext 358.
PSW Training
Monday, December 1st at West Linn Public Library, 1595 Burns Street, West Linn, 97068
- Session #1: 10:00am to 11:30am
- Session #2: 1:00pm to 2:30pm
- Session #3: 3:30 to 5:00pm
PSW Training
Monday, December 15th at UCP Connection, 305 NE 102nd Ave, Suite 100, Portland, 97220
- Session #1: 10:00am to 11:30am
- Session #2: 1:00pm to 2:30pm
- Session #3: 3:30 to 5:00pm
Provider Organization Training
Monday, December 15th at UCP Connection, 305 NE 102nd Ave, Suite 100, Portland, 97220
6:00 pm to 7:30pm
by independence northwest | Oct 14, 2014 | customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, providers, resource, training
The 2013-15 HCW/PSW Collective Bargaining Agreement provides for a new level of worker and compensation. Enhanced and Exceptional Workers provide services to consumers with certain assessed medical and/or behavioral needs, AND have successfully completed additional training.
The Oregon Home Care Commission will be holding the first pilot Enhanced and Exceptional Worker trainings for both HCWs and PSWs in November/December in the Portland area. If you, or someone you know, are interested in being part of the pilot, follow these steps:
1. Make sure your CPR/First Aid is up-to-date. You will need to send a copy of your certification with the application.|
2. Go to the website: ohcc-training.org. Create an account, then log in to your account. Look under “Courses” for the Readiness Assessment for your work group (HCW or PSW).
3. You are allowed to take the Readiness Assessment one time only, so some study ahead of time will be helpful. It is highly recommended that you review course manuals from the classes you have attended that are listed on the website if you have taken them.
4. Complete the Readiness Assessment. You will be able to review your answers after you finish the assessment.
5. If you pass the assessment with a score of 80% or better, you will be directed to the application. Fill this out and send to the Home Care Commission. These must be received by October 20, 2014 to be eligible for the pilot course.
If you do not pass the readiness assessment, you can use the feedback online to determine which topics to learn more about or courses to attend. The assessment will open again in 2015 the next time the course is offered.
For more information contact:
Joan Medlen
Personal Support Worker Training Coordinator
joan.e.medlen@state.or.us
by independence northwest | Jul 15, 2014 | 2014 changes, independent contractors, providers
Update: TNT has communicated to us that independent contractor checks will go out in today’s mail.
Dear Independent Contractors,
There seems to be pandemonium in the field because independent contractors haven’t been paid. Unfortunately this post isn’t going to clear anything up but I wanted to send something out regardless since we are being inundated with phone calls asking questions we cannot answer. Here’s the short version of what we know and don’t know:
- Neither TNT nor the state has communicated to us when ICs should or will be paid. We assumed that they would be paid according to the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.
- We have heard rumors of a problem with payment but there has been no direct communication to us from TNT or from ODDS about this delay.
- TNT assured us that missing vendor packets would not impact payment this month.
- We met TNT’s deadline for submission of our bills, which was at 10:00 am on July 8th. It wasn’t easy.
We will update you here as soon as we learn more.
– Ron Spence, Operations Director
by independence northwest | May 5, 2014 | 2013 changes, 2014 changes, advocacy, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, k plan, provider organizations, providers, training
By Larry Deal
Executive Director
There are just 40 working days left between now and the end of the current fiscal year, June 30, 2014. Over the past year, that mid-summer date has been a much-publicized target for many changes in the Oregon’s developmental disabilities brokerage system. You’ve no doubt heard many times over: “this, that, or the other has to be done by July 1st”. This includes significant changes such as ensuring all 7,500 or so brokerage customers have been assessed with the new Functional Needs Assessment, ensuring that all providers are signed up in the state’s payment system, and preparing for having the state take over direct payment to all brokerage providers. In some areas of the state, customers are changing fiscal intermediaries as well. (Here at INW, this is not the case.)
There’s a lot happening. We understand that change can be confusing, frustrating and overwhelming. Sometimes all three. So here’s a cheat sheet for what you need to tend to in the next forty days.
If you’re a customer or a representative designee:
- Be sure to respond to your Personal Agent’s (or a state worker’s) call to complete the new Functional Needs Assessment. It’s essential these are completed for everyone by June 30th. This allows the state to draw down increased federal funding via the new K Plan. Additionally, be ready to revise your plan to make some language changes. Your PA will help you with that.
- If you have a provider, be sure that s/he has filled out a Provider Enrollment Agreement. We want to be sure they can continue to get paid after the state takes over payment (currently planned for July 1st.)
- One great way to better understand the changes is to attend one of INW’s community forums. We have two scheduled in May.
If you’re a provider of brokerage services:
- Make sure the customers you serve have scheduled a Functional Needs Assessment with their PA (or a state worker.) If they need some support during the assessment and would like you to assist, offer your help.
- If you have not already, you must apply for and receive a Medicaid provider number. Sign up by filling out the Provider Enrollment Agreement form as soon as possible.
- If you have already applied for a provider number, but haven’t heard back from the state, please contact them directly at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us
- If we’ve contacted you about updating your Criminal History Check, be sure you respond quickly. All PSWs must have a CHC completed every two years. You cannot be paid without a current check on file.
- Attend one of the upcoming Personal Support Worker webinars. There are currently three scheduled. The webinars will give you basic details on the state’s payment system (eXPRS) and how the way you’ll be paid is changing. Click here to learn more.
- Attend one of INW’s community forums.
If there are changes to the deadlines or expectations (and there may be), we’ll keep you updated via additional mailing. In the meantime, keep an eye on the INW blog or our Facebook page for the latest. As always, thank you for the opportunity to serve you, your family, and this community.
by independence northwest | May 5, 2014 | 2014 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, policy, provider organizations, providers, training
The Oregon of Office of Developmental Disabilities (the state) is putting on a series of training for brokerage PSW providers. The training is called “Using eXPRS for DD Personal Support Workers and DD Independent Contractor PSWs.”
Per the state, “Use of the eXPRS Payment System will begin July 1st, 2014. This training is a repeat of the April 22nd webinar training session and will cover the information PSW or IC-PSWs need to know to get ready for July 1st. These trainings are online, computer-based trainings.
Training participants will need a computer and internet to view the training materials AND access to a phone to listen to the discussion. Pre-registration for these trainings is required as each session has a limit to the number of participants.”
Once registered, participants will receive an email with the training site link, conference phone number and instructions on how to connect to the training on the date you are registered to participate. If you have questions, contact Julie Harrison at JULIE.A.HARRISON@dhsoha.state.or.us.
by independencenw | Nov 25, 2013 | customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers
Dear Providers,
There continue to be hold-ups on the State’s move to take over payment to providers of brokerage services.
Representatives from the Office of Developmental Disabilities Services promise there’s continued work on a solid plan, but as of right now they have produced no clear plans or feasible timelines. What we do know is this:
- Payment will not be coming through the State effective January 1st, 2014
- We will continue to provide your payment until an appropriate plan is developed and agreed upon.
Given the amount of work left to do during implementation, our best guess is a transition several months into the new year at this point.
If you haven’t sent in your Provider Enrollment Agreement, do so now. This is an essential action on your part, regardless of changing timelines.
If you have turned in your PEAA and have received no response back from the State, contact them directly at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us. (We initially thought we would be able to send out emails for those who had provider numbers, but the information we have received from the State isn’t in a format that allows us to do so given our limited resources.) Please email the State for assistance on this matter.
Many of you have received requests for W4s, I9s, and Direct Deposit forms. (Oddly, this request also went to Independent Contractors, a designation of providers who do not utilize W4s or I9s in their business practice.) Stranger still, we understand that you’re being told to submit items to brokerages. We have already processed these forms during your initial qualification and we cannot process them a second time. Please send your W9s, I9s, Direct Deposit forms directly to the State at:
Email: info.exprs@state.or.us
Mail: DHS – ITBSU
ATTN: eXPRS User Enrollment
500 Summer Street NE E-12
Salem, OR 97301
Finally, provider organizations who need a provider number should be hearing from the State shortly. We are aware of a transmittal being developed and have heard it should be out within the next week or so.
Unfortunately, the State has not provided a phone number to field your questions. If that changes, we will update you and share the resource. We will continue to update you as we have more clear information. Thank you for your continued patience during this process. Rest assured that your payment will continue to come through us in the interim while these bureaucratic and procedural tangles are dealt with.
by independencenw | Nov 1, 2013 | 2013 changes, domestic employees, independent contractors, providers
Dear Providers for Customers of Independence Northwest,
I’m writing to give you a general update regarding upcoming changes to provider payments. There’s been a flurry of activity around this topic in recent weeks and here’s the latest as we know it.
As you know, the State of Oregon Office of Developmental Disabilities Services plans to take over payments to brokerage providers in the near future. The deadline has changed multiple times and their current public target is January 1st, 2014.
In preparation for this change, all providers must obtain a Provider Number. In order to receive a Provider Number, you must turn in a Provider Enrollment Application and Agreement (Word or PDF). The Provider Number will allow you to go into the State’s payment system and make your claims. Without this number, you won’t be paid.
Many of you have contacted us via phone, email, on Facebook and in-person concerned because you submitted the required paperwork, yet you’ve heard nothing from the State. Communication and direction has been spotty, for sure.
Here’s how INW can help.
A day ago, the thirteen support services brokerages received a spreadsheet from the Oregon Home Care Commission. This spreadsheet contains the names and contact information for about 3,400 providers statewide. It includes assigned Provider Numbers. We are currently in the process of sorting through the list to determine which providers are attached to Independence Northwest.
- If your name is on the list, we will email you your Provider Number early next week. (Some providers are getting email notifications with their Provider Number from the Home Care Commission and some aren’t, so you may receive this info twice.)
- If your name is not on the list, we will email you early next week and tell you that the State has not assigned you a Provider Number yet. This may be because you didn’t submit a PEAA or perhaps the State hasn’t processed your PEAA yet. We have no way of knowing which is the case (or if there are other variables), so concerned providers will need to follow up with the State at that point by emailing DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us. At this time, the State has not provided a direct contact person or phone number. If that changes, we will update you.
We expect to receive updated Provider Number lists from the State from time to time, but don’t yet know what the frequency will be. As we receive those lists, we will update you where applicable.
If you haven’t submitted your Provider Enrollment Application and Agreement, please don’t delay – do it today. As of right now, less than half of the Personal Support Workers in the State have been assigned Provider Numbers. It’s essential everyone is assigned a number on or before Monday, December 2nd, 2013. We can’t let a bureaucratic change affect payment for essential services to adults with I/DD.
Brokerages will continue payment (at the very least) through the end of 2013. As deadlines shift, we’ll keep you informed. You will continue to send your invoices and time sheets directly to your customer’s Personal Agent, as before.
To Recap:
- If you haven’t sent in your Provider Enrollment Agreement, do it now.
- If you have turned it in and we send you a notice saying the State hasn’t included you on its list, contact them via email at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us.
- Continue to send your timesheets and invoices directly to us at Independence Northwest. We will notify you when the State is formally taking over payment. Even after the State takes over payment, you’ll still send proof of services to us for review.
- The State will take over payment to you sometime in the new year. They are planning trainings and support for providers to get acclimated to the eXPRS system. Hold tight, information forthcoming.
We promise to communicate changes with you quickly to ensure as smooth a transition as possible. We are continuing our series of customer and community forums and welcome you to join us. It’s a great place to discuss the changes with other community members and get the latest details. I also encourage you to Like us on Facebook and subscribe to the Independence Northwest Blog to get updates as we have them.
Thank you for the essential work you do for our customers, their families and the community at large.
Best,
Larry Deal
Executive Director
PS – Provider organizations with current eXPRS log in information need not be concerned with this notice. As I currently understand it, provider organizations who are awaiting a Provider Number and eXPRS log-in will be contacted in the next week or so by the State.
by independencenw | Sep 21, 2012 | abuse, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, training
Are you currently paid to provide supports to an adult receiving brokerage services? If so, you are a Mandatory Abuse Reporter and have certain legal responsibilities. If you have reasonable cause to believe an adult with developmental disabilities has been abused, or that any person with whom you come in contact in your job has abused an adult, you must immediately report the abuse.
Abuse includes but is not limited to: abandonment, financial exploitation, involuntary seclusion, neglect, physical abuse, restraint (not approved in a behavior support plan or by doctor’s order,) sexual abuse or verbal abuse.
If you believe any of these things or another concerning/suspicious event has taken place, you must:
- Report the situation to the Community Developmental Disabilities Program in Washington, Clackamas or Multnomah counties. This is required by law.
- In addition, you must immediately file a report with local law enforcement if you believe a crime has been committed. This is required by law.
- Write an incident report and submit it to the individual’s Personal Agent at Independence Northwest. This is required per your signed service agreement with the INW customer(s) you serve.
Please note: Mandatory Abuse Reporters are not limited to reporting only potential abuse and crimes against people with developmental disabilities. Reporters must also call in any issues involving, children, seniors (people 65 and older,) people with mental health issues and people with physical disabilities. You do not need direct evidence and it is not your responsibility or role to investigate the claim, but you have a legal obligation to pick up the phone and make a report as soon as possible.
Incident Reporting
Additionally, you have a responsibility to report in writing/via phone to Independence Northwest when you have seen, heard or been told about the death of a brokerage customer; when there has been police, ambulance or fire department response; with regard to criminal referrals, medical hospitalizations, emergency room visits, psychiatric hospitalizations or any other incidents that are unusual for the individual/are of concern. You must do so within 24 hours of hearing of/witnessing the event.
When in doubt, report!
Washington County:
Business Hours: 503.846.3150
After Hours: 503.291.9111
Clackamas County:
All Hours: Report directly to Bryan Pollard: 503.557.2874
Multnomah County:
Business Hours: 503.988.3658 (Ask for Adult DD Protective Services Screener)24 Hour Crisis Line: 503.988.4888
Department of Human Services:
If you are unsure who to report adult abuse to, please call the state at1-800-232-3020
Child Abuse Reporting:
Multnomah: 800-509-5439
Washington: 800-275-8952
Clackamas: 971-673-7112
Click here to read a brochure on Mandatory Abuse Reporting in Oregon.
by independencenw | Jan 18, 2012 | domestic employees, independent contractors
January 18th, 2012
Dear Independent Contractors and Support Services Provider Community,
In the last month or so, brokerage employees have received a number of inquires regarding the future of independent contractors in support services. The common thread is a rumor that brokerages either have stopped or plan to stop qualifying independent contractors entirely. We’ve even heard from some providers that “brokerages are doing away with both independent contractors and domestic employees.” These rumors are unfounded and without merit and we are issuing this written statement in an attempt to prevent their further spread.
Community Pathways Inc., Inclusion Inc., Independence Northwest, Mentor Oregon Brokerage, Self Determination Resources Inc. and UCP Connections have taken no steps to quit qualifying independent contractors. We continue to qualify providers of all types. That said, we are seeking clarity on the conflicting rules and expectations of the various governmental bodies who oversee brokerages and determine the validity of independent contractor classification. The input of these agencies is ongoing and additional understanding of their expectations and of our legal responsibilities will undoubtedly inform the ways in which future providers are qualified.
Often, it seems as if brokerages are perceived as creating policies that are in fact created by state and federal authorities. For instance, brokerages don’t set provider rate ranges (the state does that) and we don’t make rules about what providers can be paid for (federal Medicaid authorities do that). And while we don’t create those policies we have a contractual obligation with the Department of Human Services to ensure compliance with those rules and to assure their proper implementation. This has become increasingly difficult over time as the number of conflicting governmental statutes continues to grow.
If things shift in terms of qualification criteria or other state or federal requirements, we will do what we have always done: communicate. We have spent many years nurturing, advocating for and enhancing provider and resource capacity in the metro area. We’ll continue to do so. Is there a possibility the way we must qualify providers will change? Sure. Do we know what those changes might be? Not at present. But if and/or when things do change, we will be in contact. We are partners in this process and we have the same aim: to provide exceptional service to our joint customer base.
Please forward this information on to those you know who might be misinformed on this topic. Thank you for your continued work with our shared customers. The work you do each day makes an enormous difference in the lives of thousands of Oregonians in our community.
Best regards.
Jennifer Bickett, Community Pathways Inc.
Larry Deal, Independence Northwest
Sarah Knight, UCP Connections
Howard Miller, Inclusion Inc.
Dan Peccia, Self Determination Resources Inc.
Katie Rose, Mentor Oregon Brokerage
by independencenw | Jan 7, 2012 | domestic employees, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers
A Message for Independent Contractors and Provider Organizations Qualified with Independence Northwest:
It is the policy of Independence Northwest to pay all invoices on a net 30 basis. (This means that we will disburse funds within 30 days of receiving an invoice from a provider.) As a result of this policy we do not adhere to particular invoice due dates or pay dates. However, for independent contractors and provider agencies to be paid in the first cycle of checks each month, we recommend they have their invoices to our office by noon on the following dates in 2012.
Friday, January 6th
Tuesday, February 7th
Tuesday, March 6th
Friday, April 6th
Monday, May 7th
Wednesday, June 6th
Friday, July 6th
Tuesday, August 7th
Thursday, September 6th
Friday, October 5th
Tuesday, November 6th
Thursday, December 6th
A note about postal delivery and direct deposit: We have been offering direct deposit to the entire provider community since August of 2010 and it’s been a great success. It helps us process payments faster and ensures your money lands in your bank account sooner. But now there’s a new reason to consider direct deposit: As you may have read in the news, budgetary cuts to the US Postal Service are expected to result in a significant slowdown of domestic mail. Local mail that previously arrived in one day may soon take three to four days to arrive. In anticipation of this change Independence Northwest is strongly urging all providers to sign up for direct deposit. All providers are being mailed a copy of this letter along with a direct deposit form.
Thank you all for your service to our community. Here’s hoping for a productive and
rewarding 2012.
Ron Spence
Operations Director
rspence(at)independencenw.org
by independencenw | Apr 2, 2010 | independent contractors
If you’re a contractor for Independence Northwest customers, we’d like to hear from you. We’re considering direct deposit options for vendors. Please take a moment to give us your thoughts. Thanks in advance.
by independencenw | Jan 16, 2010 | advocacy, asperger syndrome, autism, caregivers, cerebral palsy, customers, data, disability history, domestic employees, down syndrome, employment, epilepsy, healthcare, independent contractors, learning disabilities, legal, parenting, policy, providers, reports, resource
Disability Scoop is the first and only nationally focused online news organization serving the developmental disability community including autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, fragile X and intellectual disability, among others.
Five days each week Disability Scoop sifts through the clutter to provide a central, reliable source of news, information and resources. Plus, Disability Scoop is the only place to find original content and series like “Scoop Essentials” that take an in-depth look at what lies beyond the day’s headlines.
by independencenw | Aug 28, 2009 | caregivers, customers, domestic employees, employment, high school transition, independent contractors, policy, providers, resource
One of the most common questions we hear at brokerages is “What can I use my support services funds for?”
Each customer enrolled in a brokerage has a certain benefit level (an amount of support services funds to which they are entitled and may use to purchase needed services). Before any support services funds can be accessed, we first must look for natural supports in the community. This means we look to services like Vocational Rehabilitation, school districts, the Oregon Health Plan, Independent Living Resources and other organizations who offer services to individuals with disabilities first. This allows for maximum benefit to you, the customer and ensures the appropriate use of brokerage services, a taxpayer funded program.
All services purchased with Support Services dollars are what is known as a “social benefit”. A social benefit is a service “solely intended to assist an individual with disabilities to function in society on a level comparable to that of an individual…who does not have a disability”. The benefit can never:
- Duplicate services and benefits otherwise available to citizens, regardless of disability (such as paying for a college class since people with or without disabilities must pay college tuition.)
- Provide financial assistance with food, shelter or clothing
- Replace any other service that is available elsewhere in the community (also known as “natural supports”) like Vocational Rehabilitation or services from a school district
- Exceed the amount in the authorized Individual Support Plan.
To read more about specific types of support services options, check out the list below. Your Personal Agent can assist you with better understanding services available to you.
Chore Services
Community Inclusion Supports
Community Living Supports
Environmental Accessibility Adaptations
Family Training
Homemaker Services
Occupational Therapy
Personal Emergency Response Systems
Physical Therapy
Respite Care
Special Diet
Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies
Specialized Supports
Speech and Language Therapy
Supported Employment
Transportation
by independencenw | Aug 24, 2009 | aging into adult services, autism, caregivers, cerebral palsy, clackamas county, community connections, customers, domestic employees, employment, high school transition, independent contractors, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, resource, training, washington county
Last Friday, the metro area brokerages (Independence Northwest, Inclusion, Mentor Oregon and The Arc Brokerage Services) held the 2009 Resource Fair. The fair was an enormous success. We’re still tallying the attendee count, but it will likely surpass 400! Special thanks to all the vendors who came and presented their resources to metro area brokerage customers. You can check out their services below.
211
Autism Society of Oregon
Bridges to Independence
Child Development and Rehab Center
DePaul Industries
Disability Accomodation Registry and Safety Zone
Disability Compass
Disability Rights Oregon Work Incentives Program
Disabilty Rights Oregon Help America Vote Act Project
Eastco
Edwards Center
Families Supporting Independent LivingGenerations X and Y
Good Shepherd Communities
Goodwill Industries
Happy Trails Riding Center
Independent Police Review
Making Magic Tours
Mentored Learning
Multnomah County Aging and Disability Services
NAMI Multnomah
Off The Couch Activity Night
On the Move
Oregon Office on Disability and Health
PASS
Port City/Project Grow
Portland Community College, Culinary Assistant Program
Quiet Waters Outreach
Ridewise
SDRI
Self Advocates As Leaders
Special Olympics Oregon
The Companion Program/Adventures Without Limits
TNT Management Resources
Trips Inc
*NOTE: Not all vendors listed above provide services that can be paid for through Support Services funding. Some are natural resources and others are available through private pay. Check with your Personal Agent if you have questions.
by independencenw | Aug 24, 2009 | caregivers, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, resource, training
September 25, 2009 – Supporting Individuals with Sexual Offending Behaviors
Presented by Jim Haaven, MA, Portland, Oregon & Steve Mussack, PhD, Eugene, Oregon
Jim Haaven will open with a discussion around best practices – evidenced based approaches including (but not limited to):
* Importance of sexual awareness training
* Effective teaming for “wrap around” support
* Risk management tools
* Supervision.
Steve Mussack will follow with recommendations for direct support staff and programs focusing on therapeutic practices on the milieu, increasing communication between program and therapy, and methods for support providers to feel supported. A panel presentation will be facilitated by Dr Mussack. The panel discussion will focus on community integration, job placement, legal issues, and overcoming neighborhood mentality.
Host: OTAC – Oregon Technical Assistance Corporation
3886 Beverly Avenue NE
Suite I-21
Salem, OR 97305
Phone: 503-364-9943
Fax: 503-364-1939
Check in at 8:00 am
8:30 to 4:30
Lunch on your own (11:30 – 12:30)
The ONLY local site for this video conference: Oregon State Office Building, 800 NE Oregon St., Portland (45 seats available) **There is no registration fee for this training series** Registration: ** There is no registration fee for this training** Complete 1 registration for each participant by the following method:
To register to attend this training, please visit our website at <http://www.otac.org/gro/training-registration?template=gro>.
If you are registering five (5) or more people, please send an email to Jessica at jkaton@otac.org <mailto:jkaton@otac.org>. She will collect your information and register your group.
You will receive an email confirmation containing the venue’s address and a link to directions, so please enter your email information.
Registration will close on September 17, 2009.
If you have any questions please contact Jessica Katon at 503-364-9943, x 41 or by email at jkaton@otac.org <mailto:jkaton@otac.org>.
by independencenw | Aug 18, 2009 | employment, independent contractors, provider organizations, providers, resource
NOTE: This lecture has been canceled for the remainder of 2009.
The Supported Employment Lecture, Training and Networking Series is for those interested in providing customized supported employment to individuals with developmental disabilities in Oregon. The series will be offered one day each month to discuss employment topics and connect with colleagues from across the state who are also passionate about this work! Each month different specialists will offer the most-up-to-date best practice and training on the topic.
Materials will be provided via the OTAC website www.otac.org/series. “Brownbag lunch” suggested for maximum networking.
For more information contact Debra McLean at dmclean@otac.org
COST: $45.00/session
by independencenw | Aug 16, 2009 | caregivers, clackamas county, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, multnomah county, provider organizations, providers, resource, washington county
Independence Northwest is partnering with the three other Portland metro area brokerages, Mentor Oregon, Inclusion Inc. and The Arc Brokerage Services to bring you the 2009 Metro Area Resource Fair. There will be barbecue food, games and most importantly vendors and resources for you and your family to check out. This is a great opportunity to meet other community members and expand your knowledge of the local DD community and its resources.
A mailer has gone out to all customers of the four brokerages hosting this event.
Resource Fair Time 1:00pm to 5:00pm
Where: Kaiser Permanente Town Hall – 3704 N. Interstate Ave, Portland
BBQ Time: 2:00pm to 6:00pm
Overlook Park (directly across the street)
by independencenw | Aug 13, 2009 | caregivers, community connections, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, multnomah county, resource
Next Walk: This Sunday in Southeast Portland.
Opening streets to walking, bicycling, rolling, and roller blading – without having to watch out for cars!
Sunday Parkways are 7-8 mile “temporary parks” along city streets connecting neighborhoods and residents in North, Northeast and Southeast Portland.
A relaxed, non-competitive, FREE event featuring a variety of activities in several parks and along the routes.
Intersections are staffed by volunteers allowing residents to get to and from their driveways, with larger streets supervised by Portland Police Bureau staff and certified flaggers.
Sunday Parkways gives Portlanders a chance to get out and be active right in their own neighborhood. Participants walked, biked, rolled, ran, strolled, and roller bladed along the route to activities in the parks as well as to nearby shops and businesses in the vicinity.
Why?
Sunday Parkways highlights Portland as a walkable and bikeable city. Sunday Parkways is ideal for connecting neighborhoods by bringing people together with healthy activities. Health, transportation, recreation, community, environmental, and safety interests all benefit by partnering to implement Sunday Parkways.
Full information here.
by independencenw | Aug 13, 2009 | caregivers, customers, domestic employees, independent contractors, multnomah county, resource
From the OrPTI blog:
Recognizing that most kids enjoy the zoo, but some have a harder time than others getting here, Oregon Zoo is inviting children (birth to 18 years) with disabilities and chronic or terminal illnesses, plus their immediate families, to a free evening as a VIP at the zoo on Wednesday, August 26, 2009, from 4-8pm. The Zoo is offering this experience for free as a community service, since medical expenses often prevent these families from enjoying a night out as a family.
Participating organizations (including OrPTI) are helping families get invited. You must registered through one of the organizations to attend.
As part of this special events, participants will receive:
* Free admission to the zoo, free train rides and free access to the Chimpanzee Challenge Maze (extra fee-based summer attraction)
* Complimentary popcorn
* Animal contact with a variety of animals at the Family Farm
* Special performances of the popular Wildlife Live animal show on the main stage
* Costumed characters around zoo grounds
* 25% discount at all zoo restaurants and food stands
RSVPs for VIP Safari will only be accepted through partners. To register contact our Salem office at 888-505-2673, or email dbethell@orpti.org.
by independencenw | Aug 13, 2009 | caregivers, customers, independent contractors, multnomah county, providers, resource
Intercultural Community Gathering
Saturday, August 15
Overlook Park
11:00am-5:00pm
Celebrate & learn about the richness of cultural diversity in our community.
More information at Our United Villages.
