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Authors Posts by Cathy Barrick

Cathy Barrick

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The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has shared updated guidance through ODPANN 24-109. The use of cameras and video monitoring equipment in individual bedrooms and bathrooms is strictly prohibited for Pennsylvania’s CMS-approved Consolidated, Community Living, Person/Family Directed Support, and Adult Autism Waivers. Please view the announcement for information and details.

The PA Department of Labor & Industry’s Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) has further developed the draft of the Financial Needs Test (FNT) policy after incorporating feedback received during the September 2024 public comment period. As a result, there will be a second, shorter public comment period on the draft. The draft will be posted on OVR’s website for public review beginning November 11, 2024.

Virtual meetings will be held via Zoom at 9:00 am and 2:30 pm on Monday, November 18, 2024, to provide an overview of the policy and accept comments (content will be the same in both meetings). The public is invited to comment on the draft policy through November 22, 2024. Comments may be directed to OVR’s Public Comment inbox.

Zoom Meeting Information:

CART and sign language interpreters will be available for these meetings via the Zoom link.

Additional auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. Please send your request to OVR’s Public Comment inbox.

Living the D.R.E.A.M! Creating a Culture of Health and Wellness for All
December 4, 2024
9:00 am – 12:00 pm

The Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) have announced the Dual Diagnosis Professional Conference “Living the D.R.E.A.M.” During this session, SPIN will provide an historical overview of how they created a culture of health and wellness by engaging all stakeholders in living a healthy lifestyle. Presenters will showcase SPIN’s mission of inclusive and holistic meaningful activities in the community and SPIN Community & Fitness, a gathering and welcoming place for the whole community. The D.R.E.A.M team model, including the vision and purpose, elements of “Living the D.R.E.A.M,” and lessons learned for successful incorporation into everyday lives, will be featured.

Registration is now open.

See the announcement for a full session description, presenter biographies, and how to register.

Email with any questions.

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and Temple University are requesting providers of ODP waiver services to complete a brief survey. ODP and Temple are striving to increase the number of staff who have conversational sign language skills. This is to support individuals who use American Sign Language or some form of signed language (gestural communication). The first step is to confirm how many providers have staff with documented or native sign language skills.

Use this survey link to complete and submit the survey by November 15, 2024. If you need further assistance, please contact the ODP Deaf Services Coordinator.

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has shared ODPANN 24-108 to announce the release of the Quality Assessment & Improvement (QA&I) Annual Statewide Report for Cycle 2, Year 2 (C2Y2) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023/24. The QA&I Annual Statewide Report for C2Y2 is located on MyODP’s website in the QA&I Reports section.

Please view the announcement for information and details.