';
Featured
Featured posts

The Intersection of Mental and Physical Health Impacting our Communities: Part 1

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) are pleased to announce the latest edition of the Positive Approaches Journal.

This issue of the Positive Approaches Journal looks at topics related to challenges around maintaining and supporting both physical and mental health, as well as information on resources. This issue looks at the shortage of both primary health and mental health care professionals, and the five primary health conditions that can significantly elevate the risk of severe illness and death in individuals with ID/A. Other topics include: supporting the nutritional needs of individuals with autism, utilizing a public health approach to address wellness for individuals who have encountered trauma, and supporting individuals and their families who have survived suicide.

This issue of Positive Approaches Journal is in digital form, available for viewing online or for downloading. To print a copy of the PDF, online journal, or a specific article, you will find these options within your left navigation bar on any Positive Approaches Journal page. A new window will open with your selected document. In your browser, you may click the Print button in the top left corner of the page, or by using the Print capability within your browser.

Please submit feedback regarding your experience with the Positive Approaches Journal on MyODP by selecting the feedback image on MyODP within your left navigation bar on any Positive Approaches Journal page.

The Positive Approaches Journal is published quarterly. For additional information, please contact ODP Training’s inbox.

The Office of Long-Term Living (OLTL) issued the following update to Service Coordination Entities of the Annual Review process in Home and Community Services Information System (HCSIS) for the Act 150 Program and OBRA Waiver. Found here are the procedures and instructions for entering these service plans in HCSIS, starting Tuesday, April 1, 2025.

The Annual Review process is a good time to review your caseloads and finalize any dis-enrollments or inactive service plans. The Waiver/Program Transfer instructions can be found here for your convenience. Please also reference the attached “OLTL Fiscal Year 2025/26 Annual Review Instructions for HCSIS” for additional information on how file closures may impact the current Annual Review process.

If you have any additional questions or wish to receive the attached forms in alternate format, please contact Brian Lester at (717) 346-0716 or via email.

PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation’s (OVR) Executive Director Ryan Hyde has released a memo regarding OVR implementing an Order of Selection (OOS) beginning April 1, 2025.

As detailed in the memo, any questions about the OOS should be directed to the OVR inbox for OOS questions. Any customers with questions about how the OOS may impact your case, please contact your vocational rehabilitation counselor at your local OVR District Office.

RCPA is excited to share the growing list of sponsors and exhibitors who are committed to supporting our 2025 Conference Strive to Thrive! This event, which will be held September 9 – 12 at the Hershey Lodge, is a highlight for the PA health and human services fields. We would like to thank the organizations who have committed their support already; you can view them below and on our Conference website!

There are still many opportunities available for sponsorship and exhibit booths, and we encourage your organization to view this year’s Sponsors, Exhibitors, and Advertisers Brochure, which features detailed lists of all the ways your organization can thrive at our conference. These include networking opportunities in Connections Hall and new sponsorship items. Please be aware booth self-selection will also be available for exhibitors and exhibiting sponsors. In order to be considered for self-selection, a completed contract with payment must be submitted.

Sign Up Now!
Sponsors, exhibitors, and advertisers who wish to be listed on the website, the mobile app, and in the conference program must submit all materials by August 20. The association looks forward to welcoming you at the conference! Space and opportunities are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, and no reservation is considered complete without payment. Please contact Carol Ferenz, Conference Coordinator, with any questions.

View our sponsors and exhibitors at our Conference website!

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) wants to know what types of physical activities you will be participating in this spring! Fill out the media release form and send your picture with a short description and a quote about your activity via email with “Move Your Way®” in the subject line.

 

Benefits of Being Physically Active

Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and at least 2 days of muscle-strengthening activity each week. Regular physical activity during the week and throughout your lifetime can help lower the risk of chronic conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, and boost immune function. Physical activity can also help you feel better right away. Being active can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, sharpen your focus, reduce your stress, and improve your sleep. Plus, being active with others is a great way to build strong social connections.

*If you have questions about how you or someone you support can get active safely, you can contact a healthcare provider to discuss.