Thirty-Second
Community Health Advisory Coronavirus (COVID-19)
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weekly message from the director... |
COVID-19 Exposure Update
Our three rural counties (Amador, Calaveras, and Tuolumne) continue to improve and move along Governor Gavin Newsom's tiered system of safe reopening, and our larger counties (San Joaquin and Stanislaus), while improving, have not advanced yet passed their tiered levels from last week.
VMRC reported one new positive case with a provider, and while we had no new cases this week for consumers, we did sadly learn on Wednesday that one of our consumers had tested positive in August and passed away later in that month - our sincere sympathies go out to their family and friends.
From the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) data we know that statewide 40% of the 3000 positive cases of people with COVID-19 are 45 years and older, and that the two largest ethnic groups in our system, White and Hispanics, are overrepresented in their exposure rates by 5-8% respectively. And while only 19% of the consumers served in our state live out of home living arrangements, 55% of the cases are occurring in these settings (63% of VMRC cases occur in our out of home service system).
These numbers, and several of the other indicators monitored by DDS, tell us that there is no living arrangement, age, or ethnicity that is immune to being exposed to COVID-19, and the diligence for safety continues to be necessary for the health of our community.
New Directive to Help Traditional Services
On October 2, 2020 Nancy Bargmann, Director of DDS, wrote a new directive to help support providers offering traditional services. Ms. Bargmann is waiving the half-day billing requirements when providing traditional services. To be clear, though, if a provider is billing under the Alternative Services monthly rate, then this waiver does not apply. This directive is effective September 1, 2020 and expires 30 days after Oct 2nd, unless extended by the Director.
On October 2nd DDS published a document, FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS FOR DDS DIRECTIVE 01-083120: ALTERNATIVE NONRESIDENTIAL SERVICES (ALTERNATIVE SERVICES), to help answer the questions many have regarding "Alternative Services". The FAQ focuses on the policy in general, things families and consumers may want to know, answers for providers, and answers for regional centers and providers about the billing rules.
Tony Anderson
Executive Director
Valley Mountain Regional Center
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Case Management Update
Thinking Ahead
Accurate and timely discussion on the topic of “End-of-Life” and/or advance care planning is considered a very important part of social work. It is our hope that planning ahead for such decisions will make it easier for your family to put things into place and know they are acting according to your wishes. It is a very difficult and sensitive subject to approach, but Service Coordinators (SC) are in a prime position to offer our consumers the best chance at ensuring their end-of-life decisions are honored.
We have been working on a document to include in the Individual Program Plan (IPP), as an objective, that can be customized for each person. At a recent Consumer Services Committee Meeting, the process was discussed and approved to assist in approaching the subject and leading to meaningful conversations. Your SC will receive training and will begin initiating discussion in IPP meetings for adult consumers.
We will mail out the “Thinking Ahead” booklet to the individual prior to the IPP meeting. The person will complete the booklet with support from family, care providers, SLS, ILS or day program staff, as needed. The planning team will discuss the responses at the IPP meeting, which will be incorporated in the IPP objective. Of course, if you are not interested in such a discussion, it is understood.
The objective will be reviewed and updated as needed, but at least annually and a copy of the source document “Thinking Ahead” and/or any personal requests or Advance Directive will be retained in the consumer file.
Free Flu Shots Available
FamilyWize, the prescription discount service that’s helping communities in need, announced it has teamed up with Walgreens and United Way to offer free flu vaccinations in communities across the country, including San Joaquin County and Stanislaus County. This partnership reinforces FamilyWize’s ongoing commitment to helping people in need access critical medications including the preventative flu vaccine ahead of the cold and flu season.
The free flu vaccine voucher is available to anyone 18 and older who is uninsured or unable to afford the flu vaccine. People can request the voucher by calling 211 and asking for the free FamilyWize flu vaccine. Or, get your free vaccine voucher here: https://familywize.org/blog/flu
For qualified individuals, the voucher will be emailed for redemption at a local Walgreens pharmacy. An ID or proof of citizenship are not required to receive a vaccination. Vaccines are subject to availability and state, age and health-related restrictions may apply.
As the United States continues to grapple with COVID-19, access to the flu vaccine is essential to help prevent the spread of this infection. While the flu vaccine does not prevent COVID-19, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believes it’s likely that both viruses will be spreading at the same time, increasing the importance of receiving a flu vaccination this year.
Free flu shots are also available on Mondays and Tuesdays, 8am to 5pm at the Stanislaus County Health Services Agency located at 820 Scenic Drive, Modesto, CA (209)558-7700.
The disability community is proving to be a powerful voting bloc. According to Disability Scoop, as the election draws near, new research finds that the number of voters with disabilities across the nation has grown exponentially and could make the difference in how races are decided.
The voices of the disability community deserve to be heard, and all voters should be able to exercise their right to vote. Politicians and election officials are taking disabled voters as seriously as they do any other groups. If you have not registered to vote, please do so before October 19. California offers voter registration online, by mail, and in-person. Online voter registration is available at https://registertovote.ca.gov/.
Voter registration facts:
- Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2020.
- The deadline to register online to vote is Monday, October 19, 2020.
- The deadline for registering by mail to vote is (postmarked by) Monday, October 19, 2020.
- All registered voters will automatically be mailed a vote-by-mail ballot for the November 3, 2020 General Election.
- The early voting period runs from Monday, October 5, 2020 to Monday, November 2, 2020.
- You can also register and vote on Election Day at a polling center.
Share Your Experiences with AAC
The University of Chicago is conducting a research study to understand how augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) plays a role in the lives of Latino families. To participate, you must:
· Identify as Latino
· The primary AAC user in the family is exposed to more than one language
Participation involves:
· One 1-2 hour meeting (can be a family group interview and shorter if preferred) via Zoom or phone call where you'll be able to share your families' experiences with using AAC
· Each participating family member will receive a $50 e-gift card for their time
If you are interested or want to find out more information, contact Erika Prado
Cindy Mix
Director of Consumer Services
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Technical Support Guide for Billing Requirements Effective September 1, 2020*
*This applies only to non-residential services which is defined in Title 17 as any service that is not a residential care facility.
Any Alternative Services used shall be responsive to each individual’s current needs and be mindful of the importance of safety during the COVID-19 State of Emergency, including compliance with applicable state and local health orders and licensing requirements.
Traditional and Alternative Service Models
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In-Person and Remote Services
· In Person Services: Individuals whose in-person services have been determined to be “essential” by the Interdisciplinary Team, taking into consideration Public Health and CDC guidelines, should continue to receive in person services if the need for in-person services remains essential.
· Remote services: Individuals who have replaced their in-person services with remote services (i.e. phone communication, video conferencing, etc.) or with services in an alternate location and who continue to receive the same level of support (i.e. number of hours per month) should continue to receive remote services in accordance with the March 18 DDS Directive
· In-Person and Remote Services are considered “traditional services” in contrast to the newer “alternative services” model described below. For an individual receiving only in-person or remote services, the service provider does not have to take steps to be certified for Alternative Services.
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Alternative Services Model
Prior to October 9, 2020, all Service Providers providing Alternative Services must submit:
- Certification of Alternative Services
- Alternative Services Engagement Log
· Providers may use Alternative Services if needed, to meet an individual’s service needs. Providers shall be creative, resourceful, and may make modifications to how existing services are delivered.
· All services must be person-centered to meet the needs of the individual.
· To allow a service provider to bill for Alternative Services effective September 1, 2020, service providers must submit to Valley Mountain Regional Center the Certification of Alternative Nonresidential Services prior to billing for September services. This replaces the previous Certification of Remote and Alternate Services.
The Certification of Alternative Nonresidential Services can be submitted by e mail to: RD@vmrc.net
Alternative Services Implementation Timeline
September 30, 2020 if the service provider is considering offering alternative services to an individual, the provider must have met with the individual served about their need for and interest in Alternative Services prior to September 30, 2020. Provider must document the input from the individual served in the Alternative Services Engagement Log.
October 9, 2020 The Alternative Services Engagement Log must be completed for each vendor number providing alternative services and submitted to RD@vmrc.net prior to October 9, 2020. The Alternative Services Engagement Log must be sent via email in the Excel format. We will not accept printed, faxed, or mailed documents.
October 31, 2020 Prior to October 31, 2020, the provider must complete or review and amend as needed, an Individual Service Plan specifying the type and amount of Alternative Services to be provided to each individual.
Alternative Services Reporting Requirements
· Providers are required to maintain detailed documentation for reporting and auditing purposes.
· Providers will be required to submit to VMRC a monthly written report for each vendor number providing alternative services. The first report will cover both September and October and will be due November 5, 2020. Following this initial submission, all reports will be due the fifth day of each month following the reporting month. DDS stated they will issue the specific reporting format shortly. Find information regarding what data will be required in the monthly report in the August 31 DDS Directive.
Alternative Services Service Rates – September and October
· If an individual is not receiving any services for a current authorization, the provider shall not bill for this authorization.
· When a provider has provided any alternative services to the individual in the months of September and October, the provider will bill using the same calculations as used for absence billing (the individual’s average monthly attendance from March 2019 through February 2020).
Alternative Services Service Rates – November and Ongoing
· If an individual is not receiving any services for a current authorization, the provider shall not bill for this authorization.
· DDS will calculate a monthly unit rate for all individuals with authorizations under a vendor number. Providers will bill using this new monthly rate for all individuals utilizing alternative services. This calculation will take into account adjustments for rate changes.
COVID-19 Protection Plan
At this time, DDS has not finalized the Protection Plan documents. Since the protection plan is not required as part of the Certification form, we are asking that providers hold off on submitting the Protection Plan Verification Form until DDS has finalized these documents. We do expect that all providers will be required to develop a Protection Plan and complete a Protection Plan Verification Form once these documents are finalized by DDS.
Questions
Thanks to partner Regional Centers, SARC, CVRC and ACRC for the development of this guide.
Brian Bennett
Assistant Director, Resource Development
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Clinical Update
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recently updated the guide on how COVID-19 spread. They are now acknowledging the fact that SARS-CoV-2 can sometimes be spread by airborne transmission, similar to tuberculosis, measles, and chicken pox.[1] Airborne means there are virus particles and droplets that linger in the air for minutes to hours, and for more than 6 feet away. This will most likely happen when indoors, and when the infected person is breathing heavily – example is while singing or exercising.1
We know that there are individuals infected with SARS-CoV-2 that are asymptomatic and are spreading the virus without knowing it.[2] The asymptomatic spread in the community2, coupled with the most recent update of airborne transmission1, strengthens the fact that we should all continue to wear masks when we are outside our homes interacting with people we don’t live with or not part of our households. There is a growing evidence that gas exchange was not significantly affected by surgical mask use, even in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).[3][4]
And with the flu season coming, people should get their flu shots to help minimize the effects of these two viruses in our community and health care settings. Recent studies have shown that getting the flu vaccine have reduced hospitalizations in children and emergency room visits.[5] It has even reduced the number of deaths due to influenza.[6]
Wearing masks will help us combat two viruses in our community at the same time. As well as hand washing, and physical distancing of more than 6 feet away. Let us all continue to take our part in restoring our community and keeping each other healthy and safe.
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Please continue to stay safe and healthy.
Claire B. Lazaro, MSN, RN, NP, PHN, FNP-C
Director of Clinical Services
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Early Start Update
The Early Start Symposium Planning Committee is pleased to invite you to attend the 26th Annual Early Start Symposium on Friday, November 13, 2020, from 9am-12pm. The Symposium will take place virtually thru Zoom this year.
Our presenter this year will be Kristine Pilkington, OTR/L, and her presentation is titled, "Early Intervention Works Through Everyday Routines & Relationships: Online & on the Road". This year everything will be online, including registration, handouts, and the training. The committee is offering the Symposium at no cost this year, as a way to say thank you to all who have been working so hard to continue providing services to our little ones and their families in alternative and unique ways!
Register for the Symposium thru Eventbrite here:
Please have your registration completed by Friday, October 30, 2020. The Zoom link and handouts will be sent the week of November 9th. Each person must be registered separately with their email to receive the link for the training.
If you have any difficulties registering, or need additional information or questions answered, please feel free to contact Family Resource Network, by phone at 209-472-3674, or thru email at FRNfamilies@frcn.org.
The following Early Start directives were extended:
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Extension of early intervention services: Any requirements of the CEISA, including Government Code section 95014(a), mandating early intervention services end at age three are waived. Regional centers must continue to work with local schools to transition children to educational service pursuant to existing regulations. This is extended for 30 days.
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Early Start Remote Services: The requirements of the California Early Intervention Services act, Title 17 or a child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) requiring the delivery of services in-person are waived. A service provided to a child in-person may be provided may be provided by remote electronic communications, including Skype, Facetime, video conference, or telephone conference. This directive was extended 30 days.
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Early Start In-Person Meetings: Any requirements of the California Early Intervention Services Act or Title 17 requiring in-person meetings for determining eligibility or service coordination are waived. The regional center may continue to conduct evaluation and assessment activities and provide Early Start coordination by remote electronic communications, including Skype, Facetime, video conference or teleconference. This directive was extended 30 days.
Tara Sisemore-Hester
Assistant Director, Clinical Services
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Employment Update
October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
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The first week of National Disability Employment Awareness Month is in the books. I had the opportunity to attend the below virtual events. A few of these events were recorded and I am providing the links if you are interested in checking them out.
Cindy Le, Employment Specialist for Alta Regional Center, did a fantastic job presenting about Competitive Integrated Employment.
The College of Columbia provided some great information about virtual interviews, zoom etiquette, and the process for applying to specific jobs.
I am looking forward to my first presentation Friday, October 9, 2020, when I will be presenting to SAC6 on Employment and You!
October 6, 2020 ~ 10-11:30am Employment Services from ACRC, Employment First Legislation and Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE)
October 6, 2020 11am College of Columbia Interviewing and Follow-Up Tips
October 6, 2020 2pm College of Columbia Federal Jobs Applications Through USAJOBS
October 7, 2020 10:30am College of Columbia Careers in Development and Education
October 8, 2020 10am College of Columbia State Job Applications See flyer College of Columbia Fall Virtual Events
Enos Edmerson Jr.
Employment Specialist
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North Valley Hills Update
Dena Hernandez, Regional Manager
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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM). The purpose of NDEAM is to educate about disability employment issues and celebrate the various contributions of America’s workers with disabilities.
2020 is an exciting year, as it marks the 75th anniversary of #NDEAM and the 30th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
The roots of this month date back to 1945, when Congress enacted a law declaring the first week in October to be “National Employ the Physically Handicapped Week”. In 1988, Congress expanded the week to a month and changed the name to “National Disability Employment Awareness Month.” Since then, the
To celebrate the milestones and month, the
U.S. Department of Labor has created various events and activities with the
theme “Increasing Access and Opportunity.” To check out all events held this month: visit
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The State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) wants to HEAR from YOU! SCDD wants to hear your feedback on the new State Plan for 2022-2026. This public comment period ends November 5, 2020.
Please take a look at the plan and let us know if we are on the right path to provide Advocacy, Capacity Building and Systemic Change in our state! Got to:
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October Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Distribution
VMRC will once again partner with the California State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD) North Valley Hills Office and the Self-Advocacy Council Area 6 (SAC6) for PPE distribution.
VMRC Modesto Office
1820 Blue Gum Avenue, Modesto, CA 95358
TODAY - Friday, October 9th, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
VMRC San Andreas Office
704 Mountain Ranch Road, Suite 203, San Andreas, CA 95249
Wednesday, October 14th, 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
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Any and all VMRC families and vendors are open to come to receive PPE. No prior registration or RSVP is necessary. These are non contact, drive through, distribution events.
In the event that you are not able to come to any of the three days, please contact your Service Coordinator or Community Services Liaison to arrange for delivery.
With election day quickly approaching on November 3rd, we also will have Voter Registration tables set up and staffed on each of these days.
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The deadline to mail in your voter registration ballot is Monday, October 19th. VMRC wants to help you register to vote. So if you have not yet registered and would like to, or need assistance filling out your registration form and sending it in, come by and our staff will be happy to assist you! |
Self-Advocacy Council 6
Lisa Utsey - Self Advocacy Council 6 chairperson invites you to join the SAC6 Friday CHATS!
With so much happening because of the virus SAC6 wants to hear how you are doing and share information so we can all get through this together!
Health and Wellness
Join us on a SAC6 ZOOM CHAT!!
Let’s Check In with each other!
WHEN: Friday October 9, 2020
TIME: 11:00am-12:00pm
WHERE: ZOOM - computer, tablet, cell phone
The next SAC6 CHAT:
· Friday, October 9, 2020 - Employment and YOU! Speaker - Enos Edmerson, Jr., VMRC Employment Specialist
Join Zoom Meeting on your computer, tablet or phone
Meeting ID: 920 9800 5525
Password: 538515
You must enter the Password or you can call in:
TOLL FREE NUMBER TO CALL IN:
· 1-877-853-5257 US Toll-free
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Five County Data Update
as of October 8, 2020
San Joaquin County
- 20,828 total positive cases and 473 deaths
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6.4 new cases per 100,000 people and 4.2% positivity rate (Substantial/Red....2nd Most Restrictive)
Stanislaus County
- 16,886 total positive cases and 381 deaths
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4.8 new cases per 100,000 people and 3.5% positivity rate (Widespread/Purple....Most Restrictive)
Tuolumne County
- 235 total positive cases and 4 deaths
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0.0 new cases per 100,000 people and 0.3% positivity rate (Moderate/Orange....2nd Least Restrictive)
Calaveras County
- 329 total positive cases and 14 deaths
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1.0 new cases per 100,000 people and 1.0% positivity rate (Moderate/Orange....2nd Least Restrictive)
Amador County
- 266 total positive cases and 15 deaths
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1.5 new cases per 100,000 people and 0.5% positivity rate (Moderate/Orange....2nd Least Restrictive)
State of California
- 845,198 total positive cases and 16,418 deaths
Valley Mountain Regional Center
- 179 positive consumer cases and 12 deaths
- 11 positive VMRC staff cases
- 1 positive volunteer case
- 71 positive provider cases and 1 death
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Local County, State and National Public Health Resources |
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