John's usual--
Ohio will officially implement STEP-type services as a regular part Adult Day Array effective October 15. CLI is grateful for DODD's commitment to meaningful community integration. One important consideration related to these services is that even though these services cost more money per hour-- individual budgets will increase to accommodate these services so that people won't run out of money before they run out of year.
This is progress that will help Ohio's DD system by enabling more person-centered and outcome driven services-- and by providing more money to DD providers who provide these services. But, both clients and providers need to make sure that the services paid for under this new billing code is worth the money. This means that we collectively have to really focus on the desired outcome of the services in each person's ISP-- and that we need to make sure that we're helping individuals with DD connect to their communities in meaningful ways.
That's all I have for now. Enjoy the beautiful fall weather while it lasts-- and keep those hands clean.
John
