Many of our members have been in contact with RCPA staff, with questions regarding concerns about COVID-19 and operating programs serving individuals with IDD and autism in the community. The concern for the health and safety of individuals and staff is of utmost importance and may require providers to make adaptations in their program’s normal operating procedures. We have been in touch with leadership at the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) and have posed these questions to them for consideration.

Deputy Secretary Ahrens has advised us that they have been in communication with CMS this week to discuss PA’s emergency response and are expected to share additional guidance by the end of this week. Until then, providers should follow guidance from the Department of Health (DOH), as they are the lead in communication for PA on this issue.

ODP Medical Director Dr. Greg Cherpes has agreed to spend some time with our members next Wednesday, March 18, during our IDD Committee meeting. If you have any specific questions you would like for him to address, please submit those to Carol Ferenz by close of business on Monday, March 16.

As soon as RCPA receives any additional guidance from ODP, we will send an Alert to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information.