September Visit
Chasity Chamberlain, the Managing Director of ECS for CARF International, joined the QA Forum to give an overview of her organization and of some tips to help agencies prepare for a successful accreditation. CARF standards are reviewed annually and every three years and are very consultative in nature, the consumers define the quality outcomes. Chasity recommended that considering possible Medicaid cuts, agencies should require their auditors to conduct a SWAT analysis and to make sure that they share their concerns about Medicaid. In addition, now is the time to unearth local grant and funding opportunities. CARF is seeing a trend toward increasing services for individuals with high medical and/or behavioral needs. Agencies must build a foundation to serve these populations and have a robust risk management process including training which focuses on policies and procedures. Good advice!
Deborah Robinson Director of DHS OPIA joined the ABCD Board at the September meeting to update us on the new website and to discuss ideas for increasing transparency in group home licensing. The website will describe each of the 6 units overseen by OPIA – what they are, what they do, why they are important, and reports/results for two audiences, providers and families. The website will go live sometime in October and will be updated on a regular basis. Good discussion on improving transparency which resulted in several “really good” suggestions which the Director will take back to her staff for consideration. It was a great meeting. We appreciate all the effort and heart Deborah and her staff put into the work they do.
