DDRS Connections
The Division of Disability & Rehabilitative Services (DDRS) is pleased to provide a new communication tool that will help connect you to our latest news and information—DDRS Connections. We have a lot of exciting news to share and throughout the coming year DDRS Connections will tell you about important event dates, new initiatives, success stories from our many programs and services, and more.
The mission of DDRS is to seek out partnerships which enhance the quality of life for Hoosiers with disabilities and rehabilitative needs. The goal of DDRS Connections is to partner with you to announce the most up-to-date information and advance our mission.
We encourage you to provide feedback and ideas about the types of articles you would like to see in future issues of DDRS Connections. You may email success stories, suggestions for improvements or items you would like to know more about to our communications staff at DDRS.Connections@fssa.in.gov.
Welcome to the inaugural issue of "DDRS Connections", the quarterly e-newsletter of the Division of Disability & Rehabilitative Services.
In the spirit of staying connected, we've decided on the name DDRS Connections. This e-newsletter signifies yet another mode of connection from DDRS to consumers, families, providers, advocates and all who support individuals with disabilities in the State of Indiana.
We are delighted to launch this new channel of communication that aims to convey the latest news and messages right to you.
In this and future issues, you will read the latest regarding policy and initiatives, as well as stories of how our programs and services are making a positive difference in the lives of individuals with disabilities. Where possible, we will include links to email addresses and websites where you can find information, provide feedback, and learn more about a particular topic.
Through this e-newsletter we hope to make a lasting connection with you. Our website, www.DDRS.in.gov, is your source for the most up-to-date DDRS information and we encourage you to visit regularly.
Your Editorial Team
Danielle Smith, DDRS Communications Director
Lauren Auld, FSSA Media Relations Director
Self-Advocacy—Self Direction
DDRS, in partnership with the Self-Advocates of Indiana (SAI), encourages people with disabilities to say "I can stand up for my own rights, be in charge of my life and be treated with respect." This is self-advocacy. People with disabilities have the right to make the decisions that shape their life today and tomorrow; this is self-direction. Visit www.saind.org to learn more about the SAI.
Quality Integration—Quality Outcomes
A consumer-centered system measures a service or program by its ability to achieve quality outcomes for the individuals being served. This is accomplished by integrating quality into each interaction with, and for the benefit of, the individuals we serve.
Work First—Meaningful Day
Like everyone, people with disabilities and other challenges need meaningful activities to be fulfilled and productive citizens in their communities. Individuals who have the ability and desire to work should have the opportunity to do so. Those who cannot or choose not to work should be provided the option to participate in activities that give meaning and purpose to their day.
Dignified Risk—Risk Management
Within appropriate limits, persons with disabilities and other challenges should be provided with the opportunity to take risks and learn from a full range of life experiences; both the successes and the disappointments. In addition, the state seeks to work with families and providers to develop tools and assistance to help maintain the health and welfare of all consumers as they become fully integrated into the community.
BDDS Now Serving More Than 10,000 Individuals on Waivers
In January 2008, the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) broke the 10,000 mark for people receiving Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). This includes individuals with developmental disabilities who are receiving services on the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver, Autism Waiver and Support Services (SS) Waiver.
"This is a tremendous milestone, however, we won't stop now," says Peter Bisbecos, DDRS Director, "we will continue to work diligently to reduce the wait list and secure services for as many people as fiscally possible."
In addition to reducing the waiting list, DDRS now has two new priority criteria to bring people into services. Individuals with a primary caregiver who is 80 years of age or older are eligible for the DD waiver. Individuals who are 18-24 and have transitioned out of educational settings are eligible for the SS Waiver.
Visit your local BDDS district office to learn about the application process for Indiana Medicaid Home and Community-Based Waivers. A listing of BDDS district offices are online at www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs/5405.htm.
Introducing "OASIS"
What is OASIS?
OASIS is an acronym for a new statewide initiative: Objective
Assessment
System for
Individual
Supports
DDRS is developing an objective assessment process, an individual resource allocation model, and standardized reimbursement rates. Redesigning the system to focus on fair and equitable access to services for all consumers in Indiana, OASIS includes a planning process for personal supports which will be integrated into the provider billing process, reimbursement rates, and quality assurance systems that is based on consumer choice and self/family advocacy.
When does it start?
The timeline for OASIS Pilot Phase Implementation begins in January 2008 and officially rolls out to the remainder of the state starting July 2008.
January 1, 2008
New pilot rates in effect for RHSS, Adult Foster Care, Respite, and Behavior Management—BDDS District 4 only.
March 1, 2008
New pilot rates for Days, Supported Employment, and all other Therapies—BDDS District 4 only.
July 1, 2008 – December 31, 2009
OASIS officially starts. Consumers will be converted to OASIS as their individual annual date comes due.
Where can I find more information?
You may contact the OASIS-ICAP Help line at:
OASIS-ICAPHelp@fssa.in.gov, or call 317-234-5222 (Indianapolis) or Toll Free: 1-888-527-0008.
http://www.in.gov/fssa/ddrs
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