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Deputy Secretary Blaine Smith, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, will be the guest speaker at the January 18 Board of Directors meeting. The agenda and RSVP instructions are available on the PCPA web site — www.paproviders.org.

The Pennsylvania House of Representatives Human Ser-vices Committee conducted a hearing addressing payment procedures for intellectual disability services on December 13. Testimony was provided by state provider associations, supports coordination, families, direct service providers, MH/MR program administrators, advocates, and the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP).

Testimony coordinated by PCPA included:

A Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) representa-tion by Michelle Sipple, service coordination unit director, FamilyLinks, Allegheny County;

A FamilyLinks parents, Tom and Linda Michael with daughter Sarah; and

A Intellectual Disabilities and Autism (IDA) Coalition and provider panel including George Kimes, PCPA executive director, and Jim Bobeck, CEO, Step by Step.

Michelle Sipple provided information regarding the criti-cal role of SCOs in the ODP system through organization of the team charged with developing the person’s Individual Support Plan, which becomes the prescriptive requirement for services. SCOs were moved to a state-set fee schedule in November, with many experiencing rate cuts up to 28 percent. Sipple noted that these new fees “jeopardize the viability of countless SCOs that have provided quality ser-vices to individuals in Pennsylvania.”

Tom and Linda Michael with daughter, Sarah, discussed im-pacts on the family when Sarah graduated from high school and moved to a system with no funding to provide supports. They met with their state senator to seek resolution and were eventually provided with base funding for community supports. They are concerned that when they are no longer able to care for their daughter that funding for community supports will not be available and the only option would be institutionalization.

George Kimes addressed financial cuts to ODP waiver-funded community supports. Provider rates were cut by a negative six percent rate adjustment factor in 2011/12, following reductions over the past 15 years of 40 percent in compari-son to the Home Health Market Basket Index. The negative impact of these rate cuts will reduce management oversight

House Hearing on ODP Funding

Participants providing testimony during the ODP Hearing in December included (seated) Linda, Sarah, and Tom Michaels; and standing (L to R) Michelle Sipple, George Kimes, and Jim Bobeck.

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Smith to Speak at January Board Meeting

An informational newsletter compiled by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association for the MH, IDD, and D&A communities

J A N U A R Y 2 0 1 2

www.paproviders.org

providernews I D D F O C U S

and supervision of direct care services, reduce wages and benefits of already underpaid workers, and cause the potential termination of services. He stated, “The changes in the ID waiver fiscal policies that will reduce payment to provid-ers by nearly $150 million this year compared to last year, is some five times greater than the $30 million cut included in the budget by the legislature. Providing lifetime care for people with intellectual disability is not the same as manufacturing widgets.”

Jim Bobeck stressed the impact of ODP rate cuts on individuals served with other disabilities and behavioral health issues. Financial cuts will impact staff-ing needs and increase turnover, lead to reduction in staff training hours, and potentially impact the health and safety of individuals served. He explained, “We have tightened our belts but have reached our limits. We support custom-ers 24 hours per day, 365 days per year. Cutting services anymore is impossible without putting lives at risk.”

The hearing was an effective forum. Rep. Tom Murt and other legislators in attendance directed a number of searching questions to ODP Deputy Secretary Friel concerning contingency plans for beneficiaries if and when group homes closed. Legislators were also very responsive to the Department of Public Wel-fare’s reported lack of transparency and openness to stakeholder input. Deputy Secretary Friel was directed to establish a regular schedule of meetings with stakeholders within 60 days and report back to the Human Services Committee. PCPA will monitor ODP’s response to the request. A video of the hearing is avail-able at http://media2.pahousegop.com/Generator.asp?videoname=114430716.wmv. Written testimony is available on the PCPA web site.

Positive Practices CommitteeThe Office of Developmental Programs Statewide Positive Practices Commit-tee recently addressed issues relating to restraints and risk management. Data regarding restraints indicates an overall decrease in restraint use from 2005/06 to 2010/11 by 19.3 percent. Preliminary data from 2010/11 showed 5,226 re-straints experienced by 587 consumers. Positive Practices Teams will continue to work with providers to address alternatives to the use of restraints for individu-als with mental health and behavioral challenges. Risk management objectives include implementation of effective solutions to challenging situations.

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Executive DirectorGeorge J. Kimes

Deputy DirectorLynn Cooper

Policy SpecialistsLinda Drummond, MPAConnell O’Brien, MEd Betty Simmonds

Director of Legislative AffairsAnne McHugh Leisure, MHA

Technical & Conference Services CoordinatorKris Ericson, PhD

Membership & Marketing CoordinatorSteve Neidlinger

Director of Training & Resource DevelopmentJen Bankard

Office Manager Cindy Lloyd

Administrative/Fiscal AssistantTieanna Lloyd

Secretary Kathy Morrow

©2012. This newsletter is written by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association (PCPA) for the mental health, intellectual disability, and addictive disease communities. This informational newsletter is published monthly. Deadline for publication is the third Friday of every month.

Pennsylvania Community Providers Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

717-364-3280—Phone717-364-3287—Fax

www.paproviders.org

3 Director’s Viewpoint 6 PCPA News 9 Across the Nation 11 Legislative Affairs 12 On the Autism Spectrum 13 State News Briefs

13 Committee Reports 15 Drug & Alcohol Action 17 Children’s Corner 19 Classifieds 20 Calendar

I N T H I S I S S U E

http://media2.pahousegop.com/Generator.asp?videoname=114430716.wmvhttp://www.paproviders.org

The Year Ahead

This column repre-sents my opinion, not necessarily that of the

association.

I have just returned from spending a great day at the San Francisco Zoo with my soon-to-be three-year-old grandson (poor kid — his birthday is Christmas day.) The day was beautiful and the time spent with him exceptional. The joy of the holiday season and the pleasure of being with family always offer a positive way to ease into the new year. I hope that each of you had a wonderful holiday and are ready to move ahead in the new year.

The new year always offers us a hope that things will be better. Just as every major league baseball team enters spring training with a vision of capturing a pennant and winning the World Series, we optimistically look at the new year as an opportunity to renew our commit-ment for successfully advocating for you, our members. Yet the challenges of the new year are daunting. We are entering the second year of the Corbett administration and see far more areas of concern than areas of promise.

The Office of Developmental Programs in the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) remains in chaos and crisis. Payment policies are confusing and promises made regarding a third year of revenue reconciliation have not been kept. Misinformation about payments to providers and undocumented assertions of fraud and abuse challenge the basic trust that must exist between government and providers. DPW formulates and implements policies resulting in benefit dis-enrollment of individuals with disabilities. Other limitations resulting in prescription caps and even more prior authorization requirements continue to shift burdens to already over-taxed providers.

The administration, sounding like an echo of the “gloom and doom” utterances of the Rendell administration, is already bemoaning the difficulties facing them with the 2012/13 budget and the “hole to be filled.” We await details of the recent mid-year report by the Budget Secretary Zogby outlining shortfalls of at least $550 million.

The year ahead will be difficult. It will be a time when you will need the support of the association and a time when we will need your support and actions in fighting back. PCPA will continue to be your voice in Harrisburg, but we are only as strong as our members. Together we can change the negative forces we face.

George J. Kimes, Executive Directorgeorge@paproviders.org

2012 Meeting Date Change The November committee and board meetings have been rescheduled to November 13 – 14 instead of November 20 – 21 because of the Thanksgiving holiday.

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■ D I R E C T O R ’ S V I E W P O I N T

mailto:george@paproviders.org

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has re-leased the following announcements, available at www.odpconsulting.net.

A Announcement #158-11: Healthy Aging for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Webcast. This is an overview of demographics of the aging population, the natural aging process, differences for persons with IDD, and transition based on changes to medical support needs. This is a required training for supports coordinators and supervisors.

A Informational Packet #159-11: Clarification for the v5010 CMS Mandate. Provides information for AEs, SCOs, and direct service providers who submit claims for services for individuals in the waiver and base programs.

A Announcement #160-11: PROMISe Provider Inter-net Virtual Classroom Training: HIPAA Upgrade to ANSI X12 v5010.

A Announcement #162-11: Healthy Aging for People with IDD: Webcast. Lesson 2 is open to direct service providers, AEs, families, and SCOs and is a required course for supports coordinators.

A Announcement #163-11: Approved ODP Waiver Amendment. ODP policy bulletins will no longer be issued to communicate the approval of a waiver amendment or renewal; announcements will be issued with links to the documents. Recent amend-ments for the Consolidated and Person/Family Directed Support waivers include modifications to the list of fee-schedule services, language related to the fee schedule rate development process, and

updates to Appendix C-1/C-3 by removing the rate information included in the definition of transpor-tation “mile.”

A Memo #164-11: Requirement for Supplemental Habilitation and Additional Individualized Staffing Appeal Request.

A Announcement #166-11: New Segments added to Video: Dennis’ Journey. Three new segments pro-mote the principles of Everyday Lives, relationship-building, and awareness of the talents and abilities of individuals with developmental disabilities.

A Announcement #167-11: ODP Claims Resolution Inquire Lines Business Hours: (866-386-8880), Monday through Thursday.

A Announcement #170-11: Submission of ODP Provider Self Reporting Tool.

A Bulletin #00-11-06: Continuing Participation Allowance for Residential Habilitation Service Providers’ Rates. From July 1, 2009 – November 14, 2011 ODP will pay waiver-ineligible rates with use allowance expenses included. Effective November 15, 2011 ODP will no longer fund use allowance expenses for assets included on the residential occupancy schedule.

A Bulletin #00-11-07: Bed Reservation (Therapeutic/Medical Leave) and Permanent Vacancy Payment Policy. Effective November 15, 2011. Establishes policies regarding payment to licensed and unli-censed residential habilitation providers in waiver services for Therapeutic and Medical Leave days and Permanent Vacancies payment.

O D P U P D A T E S

DRN LawsuitOn December 1, 2011 the Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) filed a lawsuit, Leonard v. Department of Public Welfare (DPW), in US District Court in Philadelphia. DRN indicated the litigation was filed as a class action lawsuit against DPW and its secretary for violating Title XIX of the Social Security Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Rehabilitation Act. The lawsuit is on behalf

of Rebecca Leonard, Matthew Leonard, Elisa Anslow, and other individuals who have autism, brain injury, and other disabilities and who receive services funded through the Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act waiver. In October 2011, DPW announced plans to eliminate or severely restrict services that allow these individuals to safely live and work in their communities. The cuts are scheduled to become effective January 1.

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http://www.odpconsulting.nethttp://www.odpconsulting.net

HUD Grants for Disabled The US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) announces grants totaling $749 million are being disseminated to fund housing for very low-income seniors and persons with disabilities. The funding is awarded under HUD Sections 202 and 811 Supportive Housing programs in 41 states. Grants were de-veloped by the Frank Melville Supportive Housing Investment Act enacted early this year. Section 811 provides housing for very low-income individuals with a disability. PCPA member Intercommunity Action, Inc., Philadelphia, will receive a grant to construct a four-story building of 40 one-bedroom units with support-ive services for very low-income senior citizens. Details on grants disseminated in Pennsylvania are available at http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-266.

Food Stamp EligibilityThe Intellectual Disability and Autism Coalition recommended the use of food stamps for individuals in residential placements funded by the Office of Develop-mental Programs (ODP) as a way to create efficiencies and save funding. The coa-lition asked ODP to develop statewide guidance for residential providers regard-ing the eligibility of residents for the federal food stamp program, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). ODP has not disseminated any guidance, but providers may want to learn more about SNAP. Details regarding eligibility, income levels, and the definition of a “household” are available at http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/eligibility.htm. Persons with disabilities living in certain nonprofit group living arrangements (homes with no more than 16 residents) may be eligible for SNAP benefits even with the group home preparing meals. Contact local county assistance offices for an application.

Aging and Intellectual Disability ActivitiesPennsylvania’s Joint Committee on Aging and Intellectual Disability reported on its successful Building Bridges Conference held in October. Planning is under-way for 2012. PCPA members are asked to submit suggestions for topics and presenters.

The Office of Long Term Living provided an update on Link centers being devel-oped across the state. The Aging and Disability Resource Center Links will offer information and referral, options counseling and assistance, streamlined eligibility determination for public programs, and person-centered transition support. There are currently 52 Links. Committee members requested additional information and clarification on Links involvement with the intellectual disability system.

Workforce Data CenterThe National Direct Service Workforce Resource Center, in partnership with PHI, Inc., provides state-level profiles on the direct service workforce. The workforce includes those delivering services to individuals with physical, developmental, or intellectual disabilities, as well as chronic illnesses and end-of-life needs. Infor-mation is available at http://phinational.org.

Money Follows the PersonAt the recent Money Follows the Person (MFP) stakeholder meet-ing, updates were provided from Department of Public Welfare of-fices participating in transitioning individuals to community living arrangements. The Office of Devel-opmental Programs (ODP) is working with state centers on training for essential lifestyle planning to pre-pare those being identified for com-munity placement. It anticipated 116 private intermediate care facil-ity conversions to the ODP waivers. For MFP eligibility the community residence must be four beds or less. MFP has assisted 12 individuals to move to the community in 2010/11.

The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is in dis-cussion with three state hospitals regarding discharges into commu-nity programs. MFP has been used to help eight individuals move to the community in 2010/11. MFP has submitted a proposal to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to use MFP for individuals under age 21 in psychiatric facilities to move to community placements. This has not yet been approved; CMS has requested clarification regarding the types of community services to be provided to this population.

The Office of Long Term Living Nursing Home Transitions initiative, begun several years ago, indicates over 7,700 people have moved from nursing homes into the commu-nity, with 85 percent moving into apartments or living with family members. Those eligible under MFP include 233 during 2010/11.

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http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-266http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2011/HUDNo.11-266http://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/eligibility.htmhttp://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/applicant_recipients/eligibility.htmhttp://phinational.org

PCPA staff Betty Simmonds, George Kimes, and Jen Bankard participate in the first meeting, held electronically to accommodate the broad interest of members who wished to participate.

The Health Care Opportunities Task Force held its inaugural meeting on December 15. The task force will assist PCPA members in forecasting, preparing, surviving, and capitalizing in the new health care environment. The task force will address health care reform, electronic health systems as they relate to health care reform, Medicaid, Medicare, wellness, and integrated physical/behav-ioral health.

Co-chairs Stephen Christian-Michaels and Alan Hartl facilitated and presented the December meeting/webinar. Christian-Michaels provided an overview of the task force and potential task force actions and topics. Hartl offered an update on health care “ecosystems,” including the need for providers to build a business case for the value of behavioral health services. Charley Curie, consultant, provided an update on health care reform activities in the commonwealth. Pennsylvania is one of the state’s filing suit against the Obama administration regarding health care reform. He emphasized that changes will take place regardless of what the Supreme Court rules. The Pennsylvania Insurance Commission has held hearings and the Corbett administration has organ-ized internal work groups to examine various aspects of reform such as Health Insurance Exchanges. Curie stressed that

the difficult budget situation will have significant impact on the process. George Kimes provided an overview of the materials sent out to participants. He acknowledged Dale Jarvis, David Lloyd, and the National Council for the excellent work they have done in this arena and appreciation of the use of materials developed. Resources refer-enced may be accessed at www.thena-tionalcouncil.org/cs/healthcare_reform.

Participant recommendations included:

A Engage Legislative Committee to advocate for participation in the commonwealth’s task force/process,

A Examine NCQA standards for accrediting health homes,

A Review the Stark Law with respect to co-location,

A Invite more advanced states to be a part of a summit and share experiences,

A Invite state representatives and physical health plans staff to participate in a summit, and

Health Care Opportunities Task Force Meets

PROVIDER MEMBERSNortheast Community Mental Center, IncMelissa Chlebowski, President and CEOPhiladelphia

Deerfield Behavioral HealthSteve Kohler, CEOErie

■ N E W M E M B E R S

A Develop a listserv specific to health care reform.

Concerns were raised about billing issues, especially related to Medicare; the need to fully examine funding and regulatory barriers; and the need for a repository of information. The pos-sibility of a membership survey was presented, along with creating the opportunity to develop a best practice forum for members to share about integrated care models and monitoring implementation of electronic health records/Health Information Exchanges for compatibility.

The next meeting is January 25 in Harrisburg. Future meetings will be February 22, March 28, and April 25, location to be determined. The Health Care Opportunities Summit will be May 2. For more information contact Lynn Cooper or Betty Simmonds. Additional information is available through the PCPA Health Care Reform Toolkit (www.paproviders.org/secure/Toolkits/HCR_Toolkit_051511.shtml).

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https://remote.paproviders.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=c9da9cea4a7f4dee99bf09f7c125abb3&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.thenationalcouncil.org%2fcs%2fhealthcare_reformhttps://remote.paproviders.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=c9da9cea4a7f4dee99bf09f7c125abb3&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.thenationalcouncil.org%2fcs%2fhealthcare_reformhttps://remote.paproviders.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=c9da9cea4a7f4dee99bf09f7c125abb3&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.paproviders.org%2fsecure%2fToolkits%2fHCR_Toolkit_051511.shtmlhttps://remote.paproviders.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=c9da9cea4a7f4dee99bf09f7c125abb3&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.paproviders.org%2fsecure%2fToolkits%2fHCR_Toolkit_051511.shtmlhttps://remote.paproviders.org/owa/redir.aspx?C=c9da9cea4a7f4dee99bf09f7c125abb3&URL=http%3a%2f%2fwww.paproviders.org%2fsecure%2fToolkits%2fHCR_Toolkit_051511.shtml

In November PCPA webcast portions of committee meetings for the first time. Webcasting allows members to view streaming video of PCPA events without having to make the trip to Har-risburg. Webcasting has been a strate-gic goal of the Board of Directors and a common request in membership surveys. With any new technology, questions arise. This article responds to some of those frequently asked questions.

A What is the difference between webcasting and webinars?

Webcasting involves video of the speaker, while webinars typically involve other visual elements, such as PowerPoint slides. Webinars also utilize a phone line, which allows for direct two-way communication, where webcasting utilizes the com-puter’s sound capabilities.

A How does PCPA’s webcasting work?

It works much like live TV. PCPA uses Ustream, a live interactive broad-casting platform. Speakers and mod-erators are captured on a webcam and sent live to viewers. In order to ensure that only members partici-pate, the webcast feed is password protected. Members who RSVP are sent the web address and password 24 hours before the meeting.

A Can webcasting viewers participate in meeting discussion?

Yes. Ustream includes a chat feature that allows remote participants to submit questions or comments.

A Why do I have to “Login” or “Sign Up” to use the chat feature?

To make sure that you are human. The login process prevents automat-ed “phishing” programs from posting on the chat board.

Webcasting: Frequently Asked QuestionsA Why do I have to put my email

and birthday to log in to the chat feature?

Emails are collected to make sure that you are not an automated program. PCPA does not collect this information and, while it can’t guarantee Ustream’s privacy policy, several association staff have registered to chat and not received any unwanted email from Ustream. Birthdays are collected to report demographic information to broad-casters. If you have privacy concerns about submitting your birthday, there’s no requirement that the date be truthful.

A Can PCPA open a phone line to allow remote viewers to communi-cate directly?

No. There is anywhere from a 1 – 10 second lag between the live event and delivered video feed. If PCPA

Tech Conference RegistrationRegistration for the 2012 Technology Conference opens January 16. Detailed conference information will be available on the PCPA web site.

were to include a phone line, meet-ing chairs and moderators would have to wait as many as 10 seconds for each question or response from remote participants, disturbing the flow of the event.

A Can PCPA get rid of advertising content?

Unfortunately, no. Ads are a side effect of Ustream’s free service. The costs to upgrade to ad-free services are extremely high and would pro-hibit PCPA from webcasting at all.

A Can any member participate in the webcast?

Yes. Any employee of a member organization may participate in the webcast.

To ask specific questions about webcast-ing, contact Steve Neidlinger (steve@paproviders.org or 717-364-3280).

PCPA TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCEMarch 16-17, 2011Holiday Inn Harrisburg East

PCPA TECHNOLOGY CONFERENCEMarch 21-22, 2012 DoubleTree Resort Lancaster

P C P A N E W S

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mailto:steve@paproviders.orgmailto:steve@paproviders.org

Peter M. Rubel, Luzerne-Wyoming Coun-ties MH/MR Administrator, Wilkes- Barre, died suddenly on December 6, 2011. A long-time member of and leader in the as-sociation, his contributions to and impact on the Pennsylvania behavioral health community will continue to be felt.

Described by colleagues as a friend, mentor, tireless leader, resource, a cata-lyst for change, humble to a fault, and a devoted champion for anyone in need, Peter was determined to create and sus-tain opportunities for those who had few options. His involvement at PCPA encom-passed decades-long leadership roles in the Conference Committee, Children’s Committee, Children’s Steering Commit-tee, and the Board of Directors. He served as president of the association from 2002 – 2004. Peter was integral to the drafting of documents such as Mission: Possible and A Blueprint for Children’s Drug and Alcohol Services, which have served as standards in the field of advocacy, and conceived and coordinated the PCPA System Re-design Initiative. In his many years at the Children’s Service Center of Wyoming

Valley, Inc., he was responsible for starting a variety of programs including adoption services, functional family therapy, partial hospitalization programming, behavioral health rehabilitation services, and residen-tial treatment. He served on councils, com-mittees, and task forces too numerous to record at the request of the Department of Public Welfare.

While he preferred to remain in the back-ground, he never refused to deliver legis-lative testimony, convene a cross-system coalition, or provide any information that would serve to better the system for people in Pennsylvania. In 2006 he was honored by PCPA with its Marilyn Mennis Memorial Award. Peter’s commitment to the commu-nity didn’t end with his work. His volunteer activities included board membership at The Arc of Luzerne County and leadership of the Wyoming Valley AIDS Council.

PCPA is honored to have benefited and learned from Peter’s commitment and leader-ship to the people of Pennsylvania. He will be profoundly missed by everyone who had opportunity to know him.

Peter M. Rubel

A Peerless Champion

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Learn to Better Serve Veterans PCPA is excited to share the latest update from its Essential Learning partnership – the Serving Our Veterans Behavioral Health Certificate. With approximately 39,000 US troops slated to leave Iraq, be-havioral health and primary care profession-als are preparing to meet veterans’ needs. The program is designed to teach health care professionals how to provide culturally sensitive and clinically competent care for veterans and their families as they transi-tion back to civilian life. The certificate program includes 14 self-directed and self-paced online courses that provide the latest clinical guidelines from the Department of Defense, demonstrate applicable knowledge and skills through real life examples, and emphasize cultural sensitivities to ensure clinical competency. To learn more about the program, visit essentiallearning.com/veterans_services.htm.

Certificate Purchasing Options

1. PCPA members that are currently Essential Learning customers can access the program through its organi-zational learning management system at no charge. Contact support@EssentialLearning.com for additional instructions.

2. PCPA members not currently Essential Learning customers can access the program at vets.cequick.com/default.aspx?affiliate_id=30141. The regular package price is $350, but a special time-limited member discount of $30 is available through January 31, 2012. Contact Jen Bankard (jen@paproviders.org) for the code.

PCPA members receive a 10 percent discount on Essential Learning products. Members that are also National Council members receive an additional five percent discount.

And you thought discounts were over when the holidays passed. The 42nd National Council Mental Health and Addictions Conference is April 15 – 17 in Chicago and this year’s lineup won’t disappoint. The speakers and thought leaders are intrigu-ing, the sessions give ideas for improving yourself and your agency, and the time to network with Pennsylvania colleagues is irreplaceable.

PCPA has negotiated a special rate for dual PCPA and National Council members. Dual members can register for $550, a $175 savings. First-time attendees receive an additional $50 off. For the first time the National Council is offering professionals 35 years or younger a “Young Leaders Scholarship” registration price of $300. I commend the National Council’s initiative to provide greater involvement for future leaders of our industry.

For details and coupon codes for any of these savings, please contact Steve Neidlinger at PCPA (717-364-3280 or steve@pa-providers.org). Don’t wait! Discounts are only available until Jan-uary 23. The National Council conference is a great opportunity for employees at all levels of management, whether seasoned industry leaders or young and rising professionals.

PCPA provider members can join the National Council at a greatly discounted rate. For more information contact Steve Neidlinger, membership and marketing coordinator (717-364-3280 or steve@paproviders.org).

The National Council Conference – Discounts Everywhere!

By Susan Blue

HHS Allows Flexibility in Health Reform InitiativesThe Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) issued a bulletin about its intended approach to allow states’ flexibility in defining essential benefits for insurance products marketed inside and outside Health Insurance Exchanges. States would be able to select an existing health plan to set the benchmark for the essential benefits package.

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■ A C R O S S T H E N A T I O N

http://essentiallearning.com/veterans_services.htmhttp://essentiallearning.com/veterans_services.htmmailto:support@EssentialLearning.commailto:support@EssentialLearning.comhttp://vets.cequick.com/default.aspx?affiliate_id=30141http://vets.cequick.com/default.aspx?affiliate_id=30141mailto:jen@paproviders.orgmailto:jen@paproviders.orgmailto:steve@paproviders.orgmailto:steve@paproviders.orgmailto:steve@paproviders.orgmailto:steve@paproviders.org

States could choose:

A one of the three largest small group plans in the state;

A one of the three largest state employee health plans;

A one of the three largest federal employee health plan options; or

A the largest health maintenance organization plan offered in the state’s commercial market.

The benefits and services included in the plan selected by the state would be the essential health benefits package. Plans could modify cover-age within a benefit category if they do not reduce the value of coverage. States must ensure that the essential health benefit package covers items and services in at least 10 categories of care: ambulatory patient services, emergency services, hospitalization, maternity and newborn care, mental health and substance use disorder services, prescription drugs, rehabili-tative and habilitative services and devices, laboratory services, preven-tive and wellness services and chronic disease management, and pediatric services.

The bulletin addressed only the items and services covered, not cost shar-ing. Comments on this proposal are due by January 31 to EssentialHealth-Benefits@cms.hhs.gov. The bulletin is available at http://cciio.cms.gov/resources/files/Files2/12162011/ essential_health_benefits_bulletin.pdf and additional information at http://cciio.cms.gov/resources/regulations/index.html#hie.

SAMHSA Announces New Recovery DefinitionThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) announced a new definition for recovery from mental health and substance use disorders. Recovery is “A process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.” In 2010 SAMHSA and stakeholders developed a draft definition and principles of recovery that included common elements. In 2011 SAMHSA gathered input on the draft definition and principles. Much of the feedback was incorporated into the new working definition and prin-ciples. SAMHSA defined four dimensions that support recovery:

A Health — overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) as well as living in a physically and emotionally healthy way;

A Home — a stable and safe place to live;

A Purpose — meaningful daily activities such as a job, school, volun-teerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independ-ence, income, and resources to participate in society; and

A Community — relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

More information is available at www.samhsa.gov/recovery.

Demonstration Projects for In-Home Primary CareA Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Demonstration Project, Inde-pendence at Home, expands the scope of in-home services that can be provided to Medicare beneficiaries with multiple chronic conditions. Medical practices will provide primary care home visits to meet the needs of individuals with multi-ple chronic conditions and functional limitations who voluntarily enroll in the project. The demonstration will reward practices that reduce Medicare expendi-tures and provide high quality care with an incentive payment. Practices eligible to participate must include physicians or nurse practitioners with experience in home-based primary care. Up to 50 practices will be selected and each must serve at least 200 beneficiaries with multiple chronic conditions and functional limita-tions. Practices are responsible to coordinate care with other health and social service professionals. Applications/Letters of intent are due February 6. A fact sheet is available at www.cms.gov/DemoProjectsEvalRpts/downloads/IAH_FactSheet.pdf. More detailed information and the application are available at www.cms.gov/demoprojectsevalrpts/md/itemdetail.asp?itemid=CMS1240082. Questions may be ad-dressed to CMS at IndependenceAtHomeDemo@cms.hhs.gov.

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HHS Allows Flexibility in Health Reform Initiatives

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■ L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

For additional information on legislative issues, contact PCPA at 717-364-3280. For copies of bills, call your local legislator, the House Document Room 717-787-5320, or visit the General Assembly’s Electronic Bill Room at www.legis.state.pa.us.

The PCPA Government Relations Institute© 2011/12 class held its first session in December 2011. The GRI first joined members at the Central Region meeting to hear presentations from Morgan Plant, PCPA lobbyist, and Sean Connally, The Bravo Group, on framing a message for legislators, followed by role playing exercis-es. Attendees spent a productive afternoon with former legislator and PCPA cham-pion Kathy Manderino and House Human Services Staff Analyst Liz Yarnell to focus on the Pennsylvania legislative process. Senior Budget Analyst Beth Balaban and Human Service Advocate Terry Roth presented on construction of the state budget and how to advocate for budget issues.

Sarah Miles, Independent Regulatory Review Commission, introduced the class to the regulatory process and how they can impact it. An afternoon was spent at the Capi-tol making visits to legislators, having a tour, and sitting in on a legislative session. The class spent time with former Department of Public Welfare chief counsel Allen Warshaw to discuss Act 22. Finally, advocates from The ARC and the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Association gave a presentation on working in partnership with consumers. A highlight of the first session was a dinner with legislators that included Reps. Phyllis Mundy, Pam DeLissio, Vanessa Brown, and Michelle Brown-lee. The evening was successful in establishing relationships with future legislative champions. The next session is February 13 – 14 and will focus on the budget.

GRI Launches 2011/12 Session

TOP — Morgan Plant and Rep. Sherry Delozier discuss how members can impact legislators.

BOTTOM —Sean Connally runs a role playing exercise with GRI participants Lloyd Lamason, Community Services Group; Adam Miller, Pressley Ridge; and PCPA board member Gordon May, Adams-Hanover Counseling Services.

PCPA Supports Prior Authorization BillPCPA urges members to contact local legislators in support of House Bill 1317, which would exempt psychiatrists who treat patients with mental health issues under the Medical Assistance program from pre-authorization requirements for prescribed psychiatric medications. Prob-lems in getting psychiatric medications approved through the prior authorization process continue to mount and members report that recipients are being seriously impacted. HB 1317 has passed the House and was referred to the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee. PCPA advocates that the bill be amended to in-clude a wider range of prescribers such as physician assistants and nurse practition-ers. Further questions may be addressed to Anne Leisure (anne@paproviders.org).

Tavenner to Head CMSPresident Obama has formally an-nounced his nomination of Marilyn Tavenner as administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). Tavenner served as principal deputy administra-tor of CMS since February 2010 and as acting administrator from February – July 2010. The Tavenner nomination will be finalized once the formal confirmation process is complete.

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http://www.legis.state.pa.usmailto:anne@paproviders.org

Methadone Transportation Bill in Governor’s Hands Senate Bill 638, addressing transportation to methadone clinics for Medical Assis-tance recipients, has been passed by the House and Senate and awaits Governor Corbett’s signature. SB 638 provides that a Medical Assistance recipient who needs methadone treatment may be reimbursed for transportation only to the closest treatment provider. PCPA met with Senator Ward’s office to urge expand-ing the limitation to the two closest clinics. While Senator Ward did not agree, a requirement that the Department of Public Welfare formulate an exceptions process was included in the bill via amendment. In addition, PCPA supported a House amendment that clarified that a Medical Assistant recipient who elects to go to a provider other than the one closest to his/her residence will at least receive mileage reimbursement equal to the distance from the residence to the closest clinic.

Zogby Provides Bleak Mid-Year Budget Update Budget Secretary Charles Zogby provided a briefing on the 2012 budget to leg-islative leaders of all four caucuses, followed by a press conference. He reported that 2011/12 state revenues are projected to come in approximately $500 million under estimate. At issue is whether a mid-year budget “freeze” on various pro-grams will be carried out. Zogby noted that any freezes would not be across-the-board and areas that have already experienced significant reductions will likely be spared at this time. There has been speculation that budget freezes may be in the neighborhood of $200 million, but no official word has been received.

The outlook for the 2012/13 budget is bleak. Mandated spending for debt ser-vice, pensions, and Medicaid entitlements will increase in 2012/13 by $800 mil-lion. While revenues are also expected to rise, the shortfall is estimated at $746 million. As a result, Zogby reported that the governor is looking for $746 million in budget cuts in 2012/13.

Advocacy for maintaining Pennsylvania’s safety net has been strong and consist-ent, but efforts will need to be undertaken at even greater levels. It is crucial that members continue to work with legislators at the local level to ensure they are aware of the importance of community services to Pennsylvanians who need mental health, intellectual disability, and drug and alcohol care, as well as the impact to constituents should the safety net be shredded by budget cuts. Further questions may be addressed to Anne Leisure (anne@paproviders.org).

Governor Signs SB 1183 Governor Corbett signed Senate Bill 1183 into law as Act 111 of 2011, bringing Pennsylvania into compliance with the federal Adam Walsh Child Protection and Safety Act of 2006. Act 111 also closes loopholes in Pennsylvania’s sex offender registry law, called Megan’s Law. The new law aims to coordinate efforts between states in monitoring and tracking sex offenders by making more information available on a centralized Internet database. PCPA is waiting further analysis to determine the effect of the law on youthful offenders, particularly ones with mental health, intellectual disability, or autism.

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Act 62 Struggles ContinueHaving a problem getting authori-zation, documentation, or even payment for services to children with an autism spectrum disorder? PCPA is hearing about more and more challenges in dealing with private insurance companies. With staff turnover in state agencies and insurance companies some organizations are experiencing more problems, less payment for services, and increased staff time to try to resolve these issues. Contact Connell O’Brien (connell@paproviders.org) with any empiri-cal data or anecdotal information to help PCPA better describe the challenges and gauge the impact on providers, families, and the Medicaid program.

New Resource for Job SeekersThink Beyond the Label has launched an online jobs portal to connect job seekers with dis-abilities to employers, includ-ing those actively seeking to hire. Think Beyond the Label is a public-private partnership that delivers information, outreach, and resources to ensure greater recruiting and hiring opportunities for job candidates with disabilities. Its new job-search engine gives candidates with disabilities free access to nearly one million job listings from more than 90,000 vetted hiring employers in the private and public sectors. Visit www.thinkbeyondthelabel.com for more information. Agencies should consider enrolling as a partner in this national movement.

■ O N T H E A U T I S M S P E C T R U M

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PH/BH Learning Community Update The Pennsylvania Physical Health/Behavioral Health (PH/BH) Learn-ing Community celebrated its one-year anniversary in December 2011. Goals were developed for 2012 and include:

A Maintain year one activities, A Increase social media presence,A Continue to establish relationships with other PH/BH organizations,A Increase physical health membership/participation in learning community events,A Increase family/consumer participation,A Explore holding regional events, andA Obtain funding to subsidize learning community activities.

The learning community will offer a lunchtime webinar, Working Through Confidential-ity Issues, January 19. The webinar will be presented by Kathleen Reynolds, LMSW, ACSW, director, SAMHSA/HRSA Center for Integrated Health Solutions. Registration may be accessed at https://cc.readytalk.com/cc/s/showReg?udc=757tkaejjl5h.

Offenders Leaving DOC to Have Photo IDs It has long been recognized that treatment, other community services, and employ-ment are delayed when an offender leaves the Department of Corrections (DOC) and has no photo identification. PCPA has advocated and worked closely with the Pennsylvania Prison Society and others for years to develop ways to make this a reality. Mary Finck, Reentry Program Manager, DOC, announced at the December PCPA Criminal Justice Committee that in 2012 all offenders will leave the institution with a photo ID. This important change is a result of Secretary of Corrections John Wetzel’s leadership and understanding of the importance of reducing recidivism and the role that timely access to treatment and other community services play.

The learning community planners gathered at PCPA in December in preparation for 2012.

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IDD CommitteeThe November Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Committee featured presenta-tions addressing the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) aging curriculum and a joint committee session addressing Act 22 of 2011 which gave the Department of Public Welfare secretary authority to make regulation, funding, and services changes without following standard procedures. ODP Medical Direc-tor Jill Morrow addressed the aging curriculum. These will be required trainings for supports coordinators. The curriculum will include 12 topics and offer a certificate for staff and supports coordinators. Additional topics included the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee hearings in September and October regard-ing past payment practices. Detailed information about the aging curriculum and legisla-tive hearings is available from the Intellectual Disabilities Archive on the PCPA web site (www.paproviders.org).

Supports Coordination Organization SubcommitteePCPA lobbyist Morgan Plant joined the November meeting to learn more about the role of supports coordination and to reinforce the need for agencies to outreach to legislators at

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PCPA Weighs in on Medication LimitsPCPA submitted comments to the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) on proposed medication policy changes for adults. Medical Assistance Pharmacy Benefit Package Change, a new Medical Assis-tance (MA) bulletin, proposed imposition of a six prescription per month limit for MA fee-for-service programs, with a managed care option to implement a similar policy. The bulletin includes auto-matic exceptions for many medications and conditions, including behavioral health. It also includes criteria for exception requests for individuals with chronic systemic illness or other serious health conditions when denial of the request would jeopardize the life of the individual; would result in rapid, serious deterioration of the individual’s health; the granting of an exception would be cost effective; or granting the exception is required to meet federal law. The bulletin is to be implemented in January. PCPA also commented on proposed Prior Authorization Requirements and Medical Necessity Guidelines for behavioral health medications. Certain medications were moved from preferred to non-preferred status, requiring prior authorization. These guidelines are proposed for implementation in February.

PCPA registered concern regarding these policies that create bar-riers to access to needed medications. Many medications are not clinically interchangeable and individuals should not have to delay effective treatment by needlessly trying other medications that do not work well or produce unwanted side effects. Practitioners and individuals should determine the most clinically appropriate medications to meet needs. Many individuals with behavioral health conditions also experience physical health needs. If individuals do not take behavioral medications as prescribed, they are less likely to manage physical health conditions effectively, resulting in increased use of higher acuity health and behavioral health care services at a much higher cost. Providers expend uncompensated time and resources on prior authorization requests, which is a de-terrent for some to prescribe medications that require prior authori-zation, even if those medications would produce the best clinical outcomes. These policies that may produce immediate cost savings, but result in increased costs over time are disruptive to the system and peoples’ lives and should not be implemented. Contact Betty Simmonds (betty@paproviders.org) with questions.

Dual Eligible Integration Demonstration UpdatePCPA participated as a member of the Pennsylvania Behavioral Health Coalition and the Coalition to Preserve Behavioral HealthChoices in submitting comments to the Office of Long Term Living (OLTL) about its intent to explore the Cent-ers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Innovation Center Demonstration for a Federal-State Partnership to Test Financial Alignment Model for Medicare-Medicaid Enrollees (formerly dual eligible individuals). The demonstration requires that states test a capitated and/or a fee-for-service model that integrates physical and behavioral health and long-term care services, both institutional and home- and community-based, over a three-year period. The Department of Public Welfare (DPW) acknowledged receipt of the recommendations. DPW is considering all recommendations received and will make a decision on approaches to be used in 2012. After the decision is reached a stakeholder group will be convened to provide input. Questions may be ad-dressed to Steven Horner (RA-Integrated-CareComments@pa.gov).

PCPA participated in a national confer-ence call that discussed demonstration projects for integrated care. Representa-tives from Massachusetts, Michigan, and Minnesota discussed experiences with CMS integration initiatives and conflicts with state programs. Associations in other states have had concerns that integration of financing will channel funds primarily to physical health and leave other populations and programs lacking. PCPA will continue to work with the National Council to learn more about integration initiatives and to influence development of integration models in Pennsylvania.

MH/MR PAAP Changes NameThe Mental Health/Mental Retardation Administrators Association of Pennsylvania (MH/MR PAAP) is changing its name to the Penn-sylvania Association of County Administrators of Mental Health and Developmental Services. Its new web site is www.mhdspa.org.

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STAR to Be Implemented in 2012

Provided by Dan Miller, BDAP

The Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs (BDAP) STAR data system is intended to provide positive enhancements to Pennsylvania’s substance abuse treatment system. By now, most who will be impacted by the replacement of the Client Information System has heard something about the anticipated benefits of the new system. Providers and payers will have a uniform, coordinated method for managing and tracking services, real time data for assessing effectiveness of services provided through outcome measures, and costs related to the delivery of those services.

BDAP is working hard to assure success in implementation. One important factor is the need for common definitions for procedures and activities that will be recorded in the system. Terminology such as “treatment episode,” “admission,” “principal source of referral,” etc. have not always been constant, unilaterally used, and understood concepts. With the implementation of STAR, all system users will need to adhere to system definitions which provide for consistent data entry and reliable reports and outcomes.

Payers and providers have unique roles and responsibilities as they interface with the new data system. The Single County Authority will use the Client Management module to receive and process client/treatment related data submitted by provid-ers, transmit authorizations, manage the Funding Source Ledger, and process claims. The provider will use the module to capture client and treatment data, manage authorizations, submit claims, and track revenue. Both entities will use common service definitions, reimbursement codes, insurance codes, and funding source codes.

For more information contact BDAP at 717-783-8200 or visit the STAR Support web page at www.health.state.pa.us/STAR

Buprenorphine Best Practices Report ReleasedBest Practices in the Use of Buprenorphine, an analysis that identifies guidelines for providers and payers to enhance the use of buprenorphine and increase quality concerns related to its use, has been released by Community Care Behavioral Health. Developed by the Institute for Research, Education, and Training in Addictions (IRETA) with support and assistance from Community Care, “the report is available at www.ccbh.com/buprenorphine.

Buprenorphine was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration in 2002 to treat opiate dependence in outpatient settings. Clinical guidelines for use in office-based settings exist, such as the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Treatment Improvement Protocol (TIP) 40, but many clinical ques-tions have emerged since its publication in 2004. To develop this report, Community Care and IRETA identified a panel of experts who reviewed current guidelines and clinical and research evidence that has emerged. From there, the expert panel used the RAND/UCLA Appropriateness Method to develop updated treatment guidelines.

■ D R U G & A L C O H O L A C T I O N

the grassroots level. Visits to leg-islators should include consumers and families to share their stories on the need for essential supports and services.

Other discussion focused on:

A the Supports Intensity Scale which many feel does not adequately address individual needs or help in the develop-ment of the Individual Support Plan;

A recommendations on ways the state could save money such as reducing the number of hours of supports coordinator training and reducing redun-dancy in Supports Coordination Organization (SCO) monitoring, provider qualifications, and AE oversight;

A the need for more training on implementation of the Benjamin and Jimmie lawsuits and the role of the SCOs; and

A the joint letter with the MH/MR Administrators Association sent to ODP regarding issues needing clarification such as SCO rates, expectations of bill-able and non-billable activi-ties, and factors used in the development of the fee-sched-ule rates.

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IRETA Winter WebinarsThe Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions (IRETA) and the Northeast ATTC invite registrations for upcoming webinars. The sessions are free; continuing education credit is available for a small fee.

January 18, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Short Term Opioid With-drawal Using Buprenorphine: Findings and Strategies from a NIDA Clinical Trials Network (CTN) Study. This webinar instructs treatment providers on the admin-istration of a unique, 13-day buprenorphine taper intervention for opioid dependent patients. Trainer: Ken Dickinson, MS, RPh. Register at https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/583298858.

February 1, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Overview of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). This presentation discuss-es the risks of consuming alcohol during pregnancy; effects of prenatal alcohol exposure; strategies for preventing and/or reducing secondary disabilities; and resources available. Facilitator: Margo B. Singer, MPA. Register at https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/116750274

February 22, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. Substance and Medica-tion Abuse/Misuse among Older Adults. How clini-cal staff can prevent issues of medication misuse and abuse with the older adult population will be emphasized and common screening instruments and treatment approaches will be reviewed. Trainer: Linda Shoemaker, RN, B-C, MA. Register at https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/477686218

March 28, 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. Working with the Poor: The Personal and Spiritual Dimensions. This webinar will discuss the challenge to connect to a client whose life style may be difficult to empathize with and challenges the reluctance to touch on a client’s spiritual practice that may be alien to the practi-tioner. It offers options to bridge these gaps and overcome obstacles to a successful outcome with the disadvantaged client. Trainer: Dr. Harry Aponte, MSW, LCSW, LMFT. Register at https://www2.gotomeeting.com/register/234243482

SBIRT Training Launched for Emergency Room NursesThe University of Pittsburgh School of Nurs-ing and the Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions (IRETA) have begun training in Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). Funded by a grant from the federal Health Resources and Services Administration, the project will improve the coordination of care between emergency medical and behavioral health services as well as build skills to identify and address problem substance use for the health care workers who see patients the most amount of time: nurses.

Research shows that 24 – 31 percent of all patients treated test positive for alcohol use. The four participating hospitals have identified only 4.2 – 7.4 percent of patients experienc-ing health problems related to alcohol or other drug use. Thus, training nurses to perform routine screenings and to improve intervention and referral skills opens opportunities to sub-stantially impact people by reducing the health effects of problem alcohol and drug use.

The three-year project design is based on a “technology transfer” framework with four stages; exposure, adoption, implementation, and practice. For this project, nurses will attend staff buy-in presentations, engage in knowledge- and skills-based training, receive technical assistance with implementation, and participate in ongoing learning communities and booster sessions.

By default, emergency rooms fill gaps in the health care delivery system. They provide services to individuals with limited access to primary and specialized behavioral health. This makes them ideal places to intercept high risk substance users. Jim Aiello, IRETA, is one the trainers on the project. “Emergency rooms are very complex and busy places and they differ from one another, ” he said. “We have to make sure that systems designed for the delivery of SBIRT actually support the use of this highly effective intervention.”

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ECMH Work GroupThe Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Work Group will meet January 17. Activity over the past several months has included the following.

A Several members involved in planning for the Third Annual Infant Mental Health Conference in Harris-burg. More than 250 attended.

A Committee and work group members have endeav-ored to advance the formation of the Pennsylvania Association for Infant Mental Health.

A Members continue to train staff and expand the use of evidence-based Parent Child Intervention Treat-ment services.

A Members offered testimony on the importance of early childhood mental health benefits at the Penn-sylvania Insurance Department hearings on Health Insurance Exchanges.

Efforts to advance improvements in diagnostic and medical necessity determination for young children and ways to advance policy supporting services for young children will be the focus of the meeting.

Many Pennsylvania families find them-selves at the intersection of child pro-tective services, family court, and the substance abuse treatment systems. When the systems work independently families may have a difficult time meeting requirements and give up in frustration. Staff and resources available to support these families across the systems have shrunk in the economic climate. In 2008 a federal review of child welfare services identi-fied substance abuse and the coordi-nation of substance abuse treatment as one of the leading issues affecting families involved in child welfare. As a result, a Cross-Systems Drug and Alcohol Work Group has been formed to promote improved collaboration. The work group is led by the Office of Children, Youth and Families (OCYF) and includes representatives from the Office of Mental Health and Substance

■ C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Children’s Steering Committee ChangesThe Children’s Steering Committee is the leadership group for policy and planning within the PCPA Children’s Commit-tee. It is comprised of members from each region working in child and adolescent behavioral health, autism, intellectual disability, education, and child welfare. Several new members were invited to serve on the Children’s Steering Committee for 2012. They include:

A Robert Bartelt, Silver Springs-Martin Luther School,A Rebecca Brumagin, Achievement Center, Inc.,A Jennifer Gesing, Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems, A Kip Hoffman, Community Counseling Center of Mercer

County, andA Carolanne Jones-Leco, Children’s Service Center of

Wyoming Valley.

While the steering committee grew with the addition of these leaders it was diminished by the recent death of Peter Rubel. He was the longest serving member and for many years served as its chairperson and chair of the Children’s Committee. His absence will be deeply felt and his contributions celebrated by many.

Abuse Services, Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Programs, the Administrative Office of the Pennsylvania Courts, and PCPA. Representatives are working to:

A Improve the service array for sub-stance abuse treatment for children and families,

A Improve coordination of substance abuse treatment,

A Assess the availability of family-centered substance abuse services for families,

A Improve access to substance abuse services for families,

A Develop plans for improving family-centered substance abuse treat-ment, and

A Increase case workers’ core knowl-edge in working with families with substance abuse disorders.

OCYF Focus on Family Substance Use Disorders Report on Pennsylvania Child Welfare Services Each year the Pennsylvania Part-nership for Children publishes its “State of Child Welfare” report. The 2011 report shows some good news for Pennsylvania’s child welfare system. The state’s family-focused approach to foster care is helping reduce the number of children placed in foster care and drive down the overall foster care population. The state continues to see counties making increased use of in-home services and a grow-ing trend toward family settings in foster care rather than congregate care. The complete report, includ-ing county by county data, is available at www.porchlightproject.org/socw11.shtml.

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Philadelphia Examines Services for Perinatal DepressionPhiladelphia’s Maternity Care Coalition conducted a study to examine behavioral health system capacity to meet the needs of low-income mothers with perinatal depression. Findings should serve as a catalyst for policy and systemic modifi-cations to more effectively meet needs. The coalition sought to determine the average time that a mother with perinatal depression waits to receive care from the point of first contact with a behavioral health agency and the overall capac-ity of the system to meet that need. General findings were that the spectrum of perinatal depression (“baby-blues” to psychosis) is not well served by the current system. In Philadelphia, the Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHC) are the only integrated care models offering both physical and behavioral health care. However, FQHCs do not offer the full range of psychiatric and therapy ser-vices and only serve current patients in the medical clinic. It was also reported that there are areas in Philadelphia County that have no psychiatric outpatient clinics other than the FQHCs.

Children’s Committee to Discuss FASD Call to ActionLast fall the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) Children’s Bureau unveiled A Call to Action, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders: Awareness, Identification and Intervention for Children in Pennsylvania. The call to action represents the starting point for OMHSAS’ efforts to build system-wide capacity to identify and address behavioral health care challenges that frequent-ly occur among children and adolescents with a Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). The January Children’s Committee meeting will focus on the call to action and the future role of community providers in addressing the challenges and unmet needs for this condition. A copy of the call to action is available at www.parecovery.org/advisory_materials/november_2011_handouts/Children_FASD_Call.pdf.

Advocates Call for Protecting Every ChildIn November physicians, child welfare professionals, law enforcement, child abuse survivors, and child advocates gathered in the Capitol Rotunda in Har-risburg with the goal of ensuring that the state’s response to recent high profile abuse allegations is carefully crafted as attention turns to legislation that should be enacted in the wake of the abuse and failure to report abuse. The event was organized by the Protect our Children Committee and intended to affirm that Pennsylvania has room to deliberatively review and work to improve the ways in which it prevents, reports, investigates, and treats child abuse ensuring that safety, well-being, and permanency of every child is paramount. Legislative action has moved forward with the creation of a commission to examine how abuse is defined, reported, and investigated and the pathway to services for victims.

Primary Care and Mental Health CollaborationThe Journal of Primary Care and Community Health pub-lished “Attitudes, Practices, and Barriers to Adolescent Suicide and Mental Health Screening: A Survey of Penn-sylvania Primary Care Provid-ers.” The article reflects a study designed to determine primary care providers’ rates of screening for suicide and mental health problems in adolescents and factors that promote or discourage this practice in Pennsylvania. Find-ings showed that 40 percent of survey respondents had a patient attempt suicide in the past year and 7.7 percent had six or more patients attempt suicide. Only three percent reported adequate compensa-tion for mental health screen-ing and nearly 90 percent said parent involvement was needed if adolescents were to follow through with referrals to mental health services. Only 21 percent frequently heard back from behavioral health providers after a referral was made. The lead author was Dr. Guy Diamond, who was hon-ored in 2010 by PCPA for his work in collaboration between primary care and behavioral health providers. Several mem-bers of the Pennsylvania Phys-ical Health/Behavioral Health Learning Community were also identified as co-authors.

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Save the Dates for Growing SWPBSA January 31, 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. Dr. Tim Runge will conduct a webinar reviewing

outcomes from his empirical evaluation of the School Wide Positive Behavio-ral Interventions and Supports (SWPBS) initiative. The data covers impact on school climate, attendance, discipline, out of school placement, and aca-demic improvement. For more information contact Patty Panuccio (800-446-5607, x6857 or ppanuccio@pattan.net).

A May 24 – 25. The Pennsylvania Positive Behavior Support Network Implement-ers’ Forum — Going to Scale: 3-Tiered Logic. Hershey Lodge and Convention Center. Hershey, PA. The forum is designed as a venue for schools and com-munity mental health and early childhood providers interested in advancing the implementation of school or program-wide Positive Behavioral Interven-tions and Supports.

A The state has targeted January 20 for a webinar for schools and organiza-tions interested in becoming part of the state’s SWPBS affiliated network of facilitators and coaches.

Look for more information on these events at www.papbs.org and under “State Initiatives” at www.parecovery.org.

C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Executive Director

The Irene Stacy Community Mental Health Center, located in Butler, PA, is dedicated to serving individu-als struggling with mental illnesses, intellectual disabilities, and substance abuse disorders. The Center, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, is seeking an Executive Director. The Executive Director reports directly to the Board of Directors and is responsible for the overall management and administration, budgeting, accounting, strategic planning, and fundraising for the Center. He/She will keep the Center’s mission as a primary goal. He/She will demonstrate proficiency in organizational and program management; finan-cial and operations management; information technology; public relations; development; and the hiring, training, and termination of employees. He/She will negotiate union contracts and build a team environ-ment. He/She must have analytical abilities and outstanding written and verbal skills. Minimum quali-fications are a Master’s Degree in a qualified mental health specialization or a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Nonprofit Management, or Business Administration. Three years’ experience preferred.

Apply with a letter of interest including expected salary, resume, and three professional references to Edith Lynne Sutton, Esq., Search Committee Chairperson, 110 E Diamond St, Ste 202, Butler, PA 16001. Electronic applications or phone calls will not be accepted. All materials must be postmarked by January 10, 2012. The Irene Stacy Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Irene Stacy Community Mental Health Center

January 25. Welcoming and Affirming Practice: Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgen-der, Questioning, Intersex (LGBTQI) and Cultural Com-petence Training. Family Re-treat Center. Mars, PA. There is no cost for the training. Continuing education credits are available for a fee. In-formation is available from the Pennsylvania Mental Health Consumers’ Associa-tion (www.pmhca.org/pro-jects/kpri.html#online).

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mailto:ppanuccio@pattan.nethttp://www.papbs.orghttp://www.parecovery.orgwww.pmhca.org/projects/kpri.html#onlinewww.pmhca.org/projects/kpri.html#online

Tuesday, January 10 2:00 p.m. PCPA Investment Committee PCPA

Thursday, January 12 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Conference Committee PCPA

Tuesday, January 17 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:15 – 4:00 p.m.

Mental Health Committee Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Committee Early Childhood Mental Health Committee (PCPA) Executive Committee Drug and Alcohol Committee Children’s Committee SCO Subcommittee Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey

Wednesday, January 18 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Membership Committee Board Meeting Sheraton Harrisburg-Hershey

Tuesday, January 24 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Adolescent Forensic Committee Criminal Justice Committee PCPA

Wednesday, January 25 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Training Committee PCPA

Monday – Tuesday, February 13 – 14

9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Government Relations Institute PCPA

Wednesday, February 15 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Executive Committee PCPA

Tuesday, February 21 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Conference Committee PCPA

Pennsylvania CommunityProviders Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

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PAID Harrisburg, PAPermit No. 24