One Month In: A Message from Carey Amthor

The transition of HCS Case Management to HCS Service Coordination passed the one-month mark a few days ago, with little fanfare. It's probably accurate to say that one month is not near enough time to make judgment on success or failure overall; but the time has been useful in gaining a better understanding of the new rule.

The following is a partial list of letters sent by DADS in June relating to the HCS SC:

• Information Letter 10-78 - HCS Billing Guidelines link (finally)
• Information Letter 10-68 - Home and Community-Based Services Rule Language Regarding an Individual's Freedom of Choice of Direct Service Providers
• www.dads.state.tx.us/providers/communications/2010/letters/IL2010-27.pdf - Clarification to information letter 10-27 posted to the DADS website February 26, 2010
• Form 3608-0610 - Revision of IPC form that resulted from issue of SCs having to be present at all changes of the IPC
• Information Letter No. 10-86 - Clarification Regarding Access to and Coordination of Non-HCS Resources for Individuals Who Receive HCS Program Services

The revision of the IPC form - removing "SC Signature required for initial IPC only" from the Service Coordinator signature line on the IPC came as a result of information from DADS that the Local Authority Service Coordinator was required to attend - in person or via telephone - all meetings that resulted in changes to the IPC. This surprised a number of Local Authorities who had the impression that the Provider could make changes to the IPC that did not affect the addition or deletion of services, or did not affect existing outcomes in the Person-Directed Plan, without SC notification prior to the change. Not so, according to DADS. According to staff at DADS, the intent has always been to have the authority and provider work together in the Service Planning Team to develop and/or revise the IPC.

For the most part, the transition for this area has been a relatively smooth one. Yes, there has been a minor bump or two, but when they've occurred we've usually gained a better understanding of the rules. Communication between the Authority and Provider key personnel has gone well, and as expected we are working through the minor problems so that there is no negative impact on the consumers we both serve.

We will have another provider-authority meeting in late July. Be looking for your invitation.

Carey Amthor
Division Director of DD Services
254-297-7210
Carey.amthor@hotrmhmr.org