As announced last week, today OPWDD posted the draft 1915 (c) Comprehensive Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid Waiver “Amendment 01” for public comment on our website. Since this Amendment funds the majority of the services that we offer, it is important that you take part in this process to make sure we are taking into account your feedback.
Public Comment Period
The thirty-day public comment period begins today with the publication of the draft Amendment at the following website, and will be open until August 31, 2016:
http://www.opwdd.ny.gov/opwdd_services_supports/people_first_waiver/HCBS_waiver_services.
If you would like to review a paper copy of the Amendment, copies are available at OPWDD Developmental Disabilities Regional Offices or you can contact the OPWDD Waiver Unit at peoplefirstwaiver@opwdd.ny.gov.
Changes included in the Amendment
The Amendment includes:
- A transition plan for Conflict-Free Case Management (CFCM) which will ensure that service planning is separate from service provision to allow for true person-centered planning based on the person’s wants and needs.
- Technical changes to both Community Transition Services and Environmental Modifications and Assistive Technology Waiver services to make it consistent with the New York State Plan Community First Choice Option (CFCO).
- A change of Residential rates to offer increased staffing for people with high needs.
- A request for a multi-year phase-in to a new Respite fee methodology. OPWDD and the NYS Department of Health (NYSDOH) will continue to work with stakeholders during the comment period.
Once finalized, this Amendment 01 will be submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) for approval. We welcome and request your comments and thank you for your continued advocacy for New Yorkers with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Reminder:
On Tuesday, August 2nd, 2016, OPWDD will be hosting three WebEx sessions to provide an overview of the draft 1915 (c) Comprehensive HCBS Waiver agreement, “Amendment 01.” The WebEx sessions will provide an overview of the draft amendment and will outline the proposed changes. The WebEx sessions are open to the public and we welcome all interested parties to participate.
Please register for one of the three WebEx sessions at the following OPWDD link:
http://www.opwdd.ny.gov/opwdd_services_supports/people_first_waiver/HCBS_waiver_services.
To participate in the one of the WebEx Sessions, you will need to connect to the visual presentation via a computer and audio connection via telephone. Software programs on tablets are not compatible with the WebEx system. Please direct any questions or concerns regarding these WebEx sessions to the People First Waiver Unit at: peoplefirstwaiver@opwdd.ny.gov.