My ODP

ODP Announcement 22-109: Infection Control Procedures and Mitigating the Spread of COVID-19

- This announcement is to notify all interest parties of the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Pennsylvania Department of Health (DOH) updated Infection Control Procedures and Mitigation Strategies for the Spread of COVID-19. Please note this announcement replaces ODP Announcement 21-048, ODP Announcement 21-077, and ODP Announcement 22-047.

ODP Announcement 22-108: Required Provider Qualification (PQ) Training on Common Health Conditions That May Be Associated with Preventable Deaths

- The purpose of this announcement is to provide guidance and information relating to a new qualification requirement that has been added to the Residential Habilitation, Life Sharing, and Supported Living services (“residential services”).

ODP Announcement 22-107: American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Spending Deadline Extended

- On June 3, 2022, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) extended the ARPA spending deadline for states, adding an additional year through March 31, 2025.

Quality Management Spotlight

- Quality Assessment and Improvement (QA&I) reviewers, and anyone who reviews QM plans – including their own – should reference this information as they evaluate QM plans and, at their discretion, distribute the document to all interested parties, as part of our continued effort to build system capacity in effective QM.

Health Equity Training for Support Coordinators

- This training provides information on the barriers to health equity and focuses on the Supports Coordinator’s role in providing information, resources, and advocacy so that individuals with Intellectual Disability and/or Autism can be as healthy as possible to access the healthcare they need.

Virtual Office Hours (VOH) Administrative Entity (AE) Provider Risk Screening

- Please join us for two upcoming Virtual Office Hours dedicated to the AE Provider Risk Screening process.

Updated ODP Residential Vacancies Report for October 2022

- This communication provides access to the most updated Office of Developmental Programs’ residential vacancy report for October 2022. The report is now posted to MyODP.org and is accessible to AEs and SCs. There is a new link to submit vacancy information at https://www.myodp.org/course/view.php?id=182.

Monkey Pox: What You Need to Know Webcast

- To raise awareness of the epidemic, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Service approached the Jewish Healthcare Foundation's Aging Team, which operates the State's Learning Network, who coordinated just-in-time learning for all long-term care and community programs across Commonwealth. Pennsylvania Department of Human Services and Pennsylvania Department of Health presented "Monkeypox: What You Need to Know" on Aug. 31.

Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council Announces Golden Opportunity Grant Program

- You know when there is an unexpected event or thing that suddenly happens, and the newly revealed situation gives you the perfect chance to influence or create change? Learn more about our grants here: https://tinyurl.com/Golden-Opportunity

Behavioral Health Telehealth Services for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities or Autism (ID/A) Town Hall - November 7, 2022 6 PM - 8 PM

- The Town Hall will provide an overview of the Telehealth for ID/A project and opportunities for engagement, including details on future stakeholder focus groups. The meeting will also host breakout rooms to gather stakeholder feedback on the benefits and barriers of telehealth for individuals with ID/A.

State Center Dual Diagnosis Speaker Presentation Psychologist Dr. Nicholas DeMarco on Trauma 

- This session will help to define trauma, inform providers on how to create a trauma informed practice, and give an overview of empirically supported trauma interventions from childhood through adulthood.

Supporter's Toolbox Podcast: More Than IQ

- Most of us think that IQ is the primary predictor of success, but researchers and real life experience tells us that practical intelligence may be just as or more important. We will talk about ways to bolster practical intelligence.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from September 26th, 2022 through October 7th, 2022

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).

ODP Announcement 22-089 Update: Community Participation Support (CPS) Service System Capacity Surveys

-This communication announces the rerelease of the ODP CPS System Capacity Survey and the Authorization Service Survey. The update is specifically for providers who have yet to respond to the surveys. Updates are in red.

ODPANN 22-110 Quality Assessment & Improvement (QA&I) Annual Statewide Report for Interim Year 2 (FY 21-22)

- This Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) communication announces the release of the Quality Assessment and Improvement (QA&I) Annual Statewide Report for Interim Year 2 (IY2) for Fiscal Year 2021-2022.

Charting the LifeCourse Using Applying Principles and Using Tools to Support a Good Life

- Charting the LifeCourse was created to help individuals and families of all abilities and all ages develop a vision for a good life, think about what they need to know and do, identify how to find or develop supports, and discover what it takes to live the lives they want to live. This training series is for all professional stakeholders.

MyODP News Online Digest October 1 through October 14, 2022

- Welcome to MyODP News Online Digest, a virtual publication from the Office of Developmental Programs. For complete stories, please visit MyODP News Online Story suggestions and/or comments may be sent to: ra-pwmyodp@pa.gov.

Office of Vocational Rehabilitation - Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Vendor Registration Information Session for Suppliers

- Develop Pre-ETS for Students with the most significant disabilities. The project will serve students with disabilities in Pre-ETS Project resulting in the successful transition of students from high school to Competitive Integrated Employment or post-secondary education.

Technology Taskforce Newsletter - Technology Today: Volume 2 October 2022

- Welcome to the first edition of Technology Today! The aim of this quarterly newsletter is to share the work being done by the taskforce, as well as resources, events, and success stories. We hope you enjoy the inaugural edition of this newsletter and join us for future editions!

Augmentative & Alternative Communication (AAC) Essentials 

- Want to learn about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC)? Take a FREE online course to learn about AAC! Each course is designed to value your time and give you practical information. The lessons are short and you can do them whenever you like. Plan to spend 2-3 hours on the course. You can also choose individual lessons to meet your needs. See the attached flyer to learn more!

Community of Practice Webinar Series - Understanding Community Engagement

- As we observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month throughout October, you are invited to join the Office of Disability Employment Policy (ODEP), the Department of Education, the Department of Health and Human Services and members of Federal Community Engagement Cross-Agency Workgroup, for a two-part webinar series on Understanding Community Engagement and its role in expanding Competitive Integrated Employment.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from October 10th, 2022 through October 21st, 2022

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).

ODPANN 22-087 Selection of New Medical Care Organizations (MCOs) for Individuals

ODP Announcement 22-088:  Open for Public Comment – Additional American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Initiatives

- The purpose of this communication is to announce a 15-day public comment period regarding additional initiatives the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) proposes to implement using ARPA funding. The public comment period ends on August 19, 2022.

ODP Bulletin 00-22-05 Individual Support Plans

- The purpose of this bulletin is to provide the Office of Developmental Programs' (ODP) requirements and standardized processes for preparing, completing, documenting, implementing, and monitoring Individual Support Plans (ISPs).

  ODPANN 22-089: Community Participation Support System Capacity Surveys

ODP Announcement 22-090: Supports Intensity Scale-Adult™ and Pennsylvania Supplement Assessments - Return to in-person

- The purpose of this communication is to announce that all SIS-A TM and PA Supplement Assessments will be conducted in person beginning September 1, 2022. This announcement obsoletes ODP Announcement 20-063 and any subsequent updates.

ODP Announcement 22-091: New Medication Administration Platform Now Available for Trainer Candidates and Primary Contacts

- To inform all interested parties that the new Medication Administration platform is now available for Trainers and Primary Contacts.

ODP Announcement 22-092: Agency with Choice (AWC) Financial Management Service (FMS) Organization Listing

- To provide a list of current AWC FMS organizations that are available to support participants and surrogates who have chosen to self- direct some or all of their Participant Directed Services (PDS) using the AWC FMS model and are in the Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS) waiver.

ODP Announcement  22-087: Selection of New Medical Care Organizations (MCOs) for Individuals

- To provide information about selection of new Medical Care Organizations (MCOs) for individuals.

Medication Administration Platform Overview for Trainer Candidates & Primary Contacts 

- This webinar will provide an overview of the new Medication Administration Platform for Trainer Candidates and Primary Contacts that launches on August 8th, 2022.

MyODP News Online Digest--July 23rd through August 5 2022

- For complete stories, please visit MyODP News Online Story suggestions and/or comments may be sent to: ra-pwmyodp@pa.gov.

Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Health Alert- Monkeypox

- The purpose of this communication is to provide information regarding monkeypox.

MyODP Supporters Toolbox: A Life Worth Living

- We will talk about ways to support someone to discover their meaning to make even those bad days more bearable.

Enforcement Summary August 2022

- Attached please find the ODP Enforcement Summary through August 5, 2022.

SAU1 September 2022 Event Calendar

- Please assist the Office of Developmental Programs in sharing the attached September Events Flyer from Self Advocates United as 1 (SAU1).

Charting the LifeCourse: Using Applying Principles and Using Tools to Support a Good Life

- Charting the LifeCourse was created to help individuals and families of all abilities and all ages develop a vision for a good life, think about what they need to know and do, identify how to find or develop supports, and discover what it takes to live the lives they want to live.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from August 1st, 2022 through August 12th

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).

ODP Announcement 22-073: Human Rights Webinars: Making A Determination Webinars Available NOW on MyODP 

- Announcing online access via MyODP to recorded Human Rights Making a Determination Webinars

ODP Announcement 22-072: HSRI Announces Staff Stability Survey Extension

- The purpose of this communication is to announce that the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI) has extended the deadline to participate in the 2021 NCI® Staff Stability Survey to July 31, 2022.

ODP Announcement 22-036: UPDATE: Announcing an online Tool for Reporting Residential Vacancies

- The purpose of this communication is to announce an update to the original Residential Vacancies announcement, 22-036. This communication has been updated for June 2022 vacancies.

ODP Announcement 22-076: Delay in the Effective Date of Renewals for the Consolidated, Community Living and Person/Family Directed Support Waivers

- The purpose of this communication is to announce that the Consolidated, Community Living and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS) Waiver renewals, collectively known as the Intellectual Disability/Autism (ID/A) waivers, will not be effective on July 1, 2022, as requested.

ODP Announcement 076-18 Re-Issue:  Required Dual Diagnosis Training for Provides Newly Enrolling to Provide Residential Habilitation Services

- The purpose of this announcement is to inform providers that ODP is requiring newly enrolling providers of Residential Habilitation services to complete the ODP-approved Dual Diagnosis Training curriculum. 

ODPANN 22-077 Notice of Change to Federal Reimbursement of Transportation Costs

- The purpose of this communication is to provide information regarding the United States General Services Administration announcement of a change for the rate of Transportation Mile reimbursement rate, procedure code W7271, beginning July 1, 2022 and is effective for the remaining months in 2022.

ODPANN 22-078  Additional Opportunity for Certification Program for Cornell University's Work Incentive Practitioner Credential

- The purpose of this communication is to announce a second opportunity for providers to have staff person(s) participate in a virtual certification program with the goal of receiving a Work Incentives Practitioner credential.

 ODP Announcement 22-074: Human Rights Webinars Making a Determination Recordings Available NOW on MyODP

- The purpose of this communication is to announce online access via MyODP to recorded Human Rights Making a Determination Webinars.

ODPANN 22-080 - Registration Now Open for August Certified Investigator Forum and Q & A documents

- The purpose of this announcement is To communicate to the above entities that Temple University Harrisburg Certified Investigator Program and ODP will be facilitating Forums for Certified Investigators (CIs) and others involved in the incident investigation process, and to announce the posting of Q & A Documents from past CI Forums on myODP.

ODP Bulletin 00-22-04 Referring Children to the County IDA Programs

- This bulletin offers guidance on the process of referring a child who has, or is suspected to have a diagnosis of an intellectual disability, developmental disability, and/or autism (ID/DD/A). 

Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) July External Training and Events Calendar

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance distributing the ODP External Training Calendar for July, 2022.

Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) July External Training and Events Calendar

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance distributing the ODP External Training Calendar for July, 2022.

PA OSHA Consultation Program - Free Webinar 

- This webinar was developed to help employers comply with the respiratory protection standard.

SAU United As 1 July Event Flyer

- Please assist the Office of Developmental Programs in sharing the attached July Events Flyer from Self Advocates United as 1 (SAU1).

Dual Diagnosis Conference Series 2022

- The presentation will include the perspectives of people with lived experiences as well as practitioners.

New "A Supporter's Toolbox" -- Don’t Break the Chain: A Strategy to Beat Procrastination

- We will talk about a simple strategy that you can use for yourself and support others that is all about not “breaking the chain.”

PATC 2022: Call For Provider Presentation Proposals

- We will be highlighting the concept of implementing Positive Behavioral Support (PBS) practices. We want to give you the opportunity to share your PBS experiences, challenges, and successes.

Continuing Education Psychologist’s Webinars

- Target audience for this presentation includes: Psychologists, Social Workers, Licensed Professional Counselors, Nurses, and other professionals who support people with intellectual disability/autism (ID/A) A Question-and-Answer session will follow the presentation.

PAFN: Using LifeCourse to Plan and Problem Solve Workshop

- Family Members attending the workshop will be welcome to attend a 30 minute family-only networking opportunity after the presentation.

Transitions Through the Lifespan Workshops

- Become empowered to have conversations about reaching dreams and finding purpose after changes in ANY Lifestage!

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from June 27th 2022 through July 15th

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).

- The purpose of this communication is to inform all interested parties of the approval of the amendments to the Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS waivers) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

ODP Announcement 22-062: 988--A Direct Link for Suicide Prevention & Crisis Support

- The purpose of this announcement is to inform interested parties of the 988 lifeline.

ODPANN 22-063 Rate Increases for Supported Employment and Pre-Employment Transition Services

- The purpose of this announcement is to announce rate increases for Supported Employment (SE) services and OVR Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).

ODPANN Announcement 22-064:  Online Learning Opportunity About Alternative and Augmentative Communication

- The purpose of this announcement is to share information about an online learning opportunity about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) offered through TechOWL.

ODPANN 20-114 UPDATE: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Modifications to Medication Administration Course Requirements as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance distributing the attached communication update: ODPANN 20-114 UPDATE: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Modifications to Medication Administration Course Requirements as a Result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Modified and updated information appears in red.

ODP Announcement 22-068: Transition to Independent Living Payments

- This Office of Developmental Program (ODP) communication will provide guidance for providers and teams of individuals who may wish to choose to receive and transition to Supported Living or Lifesharing services.

ODP Announcement 22-067: Gross Adjustments for Paid Promise Update

- The purpose of this announcement is to provide information about processing gross adjustments for paid promise claims.

ODPANN 22-069 Gross Adjustments for Paid Promise Claims for Adult Autism Waiver

- The purpose of this communication is to provide information about processing gross adjustments for paid promise claims.

ODP Announcement 22-064: Online Learning Opportunity About Alternative and Augmentative Communication

- The purpose of this announcement is to share information about an online learning opportunity about Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) offered through TechOWL.

UPDATED: Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) June External Training and Events Calendar

- The QA&I Cycle 2 trainings on June 21st and 23rd will be rescheduled to a later date, and the AAW Service Utilization Review Updates training is available to AAW SC’s and Providers.

The ARC Discovery Training 

- For those seeking to become certified providers of Discovery through Marc Gold and Associates, it is the pre-requisite face-to-face training to complete certification. 

MyODP Podcast Supporter's Toolbox: Got Skills?

- We will talk about ways to support someone to learn skills like social skills and coping skills so people feel more successful, included, and motivated.

 Statewide Quarterly Positive Approaches & Practices Meeting

- Please review the attached flyer for detailed session and registration information.

New Times Available: Scheduled One-on-One Incident Management (IM) Virtual Office Hours (VOH)

- Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) and Adult Community Autism Program (ACAP) providers are invited to sign up for a scheduled one-on-one VOH session to discuss incident management topics with the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP).

Medically Complex Conditions Training Series

- The training series will cover a variety of topics aimed at increasing capacity for supports professionals when providing care for individuals with medically complex conditions.

Quality Assessment and Improvement (QA&I) Cycle 2 Year 1 Training Webinars

- Attendees need only attend one of the two available sessions as the same content will be covered during both sessions.

New "A Supporter's Toolbox" -- Finding the Spark

- Finding your spark or something that drives you, teaches you how to learn, builds a sense of self, and finds places where you feel successful. As supporters, it’s part of our role to help someone find that spark – we will talk about ways to do that.

Providing COVID-19 Therapeutics: Your Questions, Answered 

- The PA Department of Health, Department of Human Services and Management Agency, and the Jewish Healthcare Foundation are jointly hosting an informational webinar on COVID-19 Therapeutics.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from June 6th through June 20th 2022.

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).

ODP Announcement 22-046: Vaccine Booster Reminder

- The purpose of this communication is To remind the field about a recent update to recommendations from the Pennsylvania Department of Health about details for COVID-19 vaccine and boosters. Updates are indicated in red.

ODP Announcement 22-058:Linking Existing Data Systems to the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) Survey 

- The purpose of this communication is to announce the launch of the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) survey to assess interest in linking data systems to the HRST.

UPDATE ODP Announcement 22-036: Announcing an Online Tool for Reporting Residential Vacancies

- The report is now posted to MyODP.org and is accessible to AEs and SCs. There is a new link to submit vacancy information at https://cpa.questionpro.com/t/AJrvGZssio.

ODP Announcement 22-059: Now Available Adult Autism Waiver Amendment Submitted to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services

- The purpose of this communication is to inform all interested parties of the submission of the proposed amendment to the Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) to CMS.

Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Bulleting 00-22-02: Requesting a Waiver of Office of Developmental Programs Regulations

- The purpose of this bulletin is to establish the process for requesting a waiver of a regulatory requirement.

ODP Announcement 22-060: June 3rd News Alerts from the Infection Prevention Specialist Partnership with Health Care Quality Units

- To announce the June 3rd News Alerts for providers to assist in managing and developing infection control strategies, including COVID-19 and Monkeypox.

ODP Announcement 22-061: IDA Amendments Approved by CMS Effective 6-1-22

- The purpose of this communication is to inform all interested parties of the approval of the amendments to the Consolidated, Community Living, and Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS waivers) by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS).

Speaking for Ourselves Turns 40! Virtual Celebration Part 1

- Celebrate all that we have accomplished by joining us this Saturday.

SAU1 Events Calendar June 2022

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your help sharing the attached June Events Calendar from Self-Advocates United as 1 (SAU1).

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from May 23rd 2022 through May 6th 2022.

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

ODP Announcement 22-052: Gross Adjustments for ODP Waiver Service

- ODP is prepared to begin making Gross Adjustments to providers for the ODP waiver services billed at old fee schedule rates during the months of January and February 2022. 

ODPANN 22-053 - Posting of Certified Investigator (CI) Forum Question & Answer Documents and Announcement of Open Registration for June Certified Investigator Forum

- To communicate to the above entities that Temple University Harrisburg Certified Investigator Program and ODP will be facilitating Forums for Certified Investigators (CIs) and others involved in the incident investigation process, and to announce the posting of Q & A Documents from past CI Forums on myODP.

ODP Announcement 22-054: Upcoming Medication Administration Scheduled Outage

- To inform all interested parties that important infrastructural change to the Medication Administration Training Program will take place Wednesday, June 8, 2022 through Sunday, July 10, 2022, which will cause an outage. If you attempt to conduct a class or complete any training on the system during this outage, your work will be lost.

ODP Announcement 22-055: Qualification Process for New Intellectual Disability Autism Providers Applicants Update

- The purpose of this communication is to communicate the process for Administrative Entities (AEs) to validate that new Provider Applicants have satisfied all Waiver Provider Qualification requirements effective May 1, 2022.

ODP Announcement 22-056: Now Open: Registration for Certified Investigator (CI) Initial Certification Course

- To communicate that registration for the July – December 2022 CI Initial Certification Course classes (also known as cohorts) are now open on MyODP.

ODP Announcement 22-057:  Launching and Requesting Feedback for home.MyODP.org

- The purpose of this communication is to inform all interested parties that ODP is launching resource pages associated with MyODP called home.MyODP.org. 

CANCELED: Children With Medical Complexities Part 1

- The session previously scheduled for Tuesday, May 10 is now canceled. The session will be rescheduled at a later date to be announced.

2022 Everyday Lives Conference Virtual Platform Training

- The 2022 Everyday Lives Conference begins on May 17th and will be held through a virtual platform called Whova. ODP is hosting two training sessions to provide individuals, families, and all other stakeholders instructions on how to join the conference and make the most of your experience.

ARC of Pennsylvania Customized Employment Training

- Attendees will learn how to develop an employer-focused approach to negotiating customized job descriptions on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

2022 Everyday Lives Conference Program Now Available!

- The 2022 Everyday Lives Virtual Conference begins this Tuesday, May 17th. The conference program - including a detailed schedule of events, presentation topics, and speaker biographies – is now available! 

MyODP Podcast: Supporter's Toolbox-- Changing Our Identity

- Our sense of self is often shaped for us when we are young. But, the good news is we can change and shape our identities giving us purpose and meaning in our lives.

Save the Date - PATC: Implement

- The Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs invites you to save the date for the 15th Annual Pennsylvania Autism Training Conference (PATC), November 1st through November 3rd, 2022. This year’s theme is PATC: Implement.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from May 2nd 2022 through May 20th 2022.

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

- This guidance describes actions the AEs and SCOs must take when an Office of Developmental Programs’(ODP) waiver or base participant is admitted to a NF to ensure a coordinated transition to Long Term Care (LTC) services and prevent service interruptions

ODP Announcement 22-041: New Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) Advanced Rater Training (ART) Course Available May 1, 2022

- As of May 1, 2022, a new web-based eLearning version of the HRST ART will become available. With the release of this eLearning course, the webinar-based version will no longer be offered.

ODP Announcement 22-042: April 15th News Alert from Infection Prevention Specialist Partnership with Health Care Quality Units

- To announce the April 15th News Alert for providers to assist in managing and developing infection control strategies, including COVID-19.

ODP Announcement 22-043: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)--American Rescue Plan Act One-Time Supplemental Payment to Provide Funding for Technology That Enhances the Provision of Home and Community Based Services

- To provide guidance about the process for providers and Supports Coordination Organizations to request one-time payments for technology that enhances the provision of Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).

ODP Announcement 22-040: Now Available-- Questions & Answers (Q&A) From April 4, 2022 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Webinar

- On April 4, 2022, ODP held an informational webinar to answer questions about the one- time supplemental payment to address staff training, credentialing, and business associate programs for employment. The questions and answers (Q&A) from that webinar have been combined into a document that is being made available to all interested stakeholders

ODP Announcement 22-044: The Use of Public Transportation Services for Ridesharing Expenses

- To clarify that ridesharing services, such as Lyft, Uber, or other similar transportation services, may be reimbursed through the public transportation service.

 ODP Announcement 22-046: COVID-19- Vaccine Booster Reminder

- To remind the field about a recent update to recommendations from the Pennsylvania Department of Health about details for COVID-19 vaccine and boosters.

ODP Announcement 22-047:  Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)--Provider Masking Policies for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attaching communication, Announcement 22-047: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19): Provider Masking Policies for Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). This announcement offers information and resources to the field in support of developing masking policies. Please review the announcement for additional information.

Best Practices in Behavioral Support Survey

- We intend to host additional sessions with providers and AEs to talk about the standards, but in the meantime, we are interested in hearing from those of you who have reviewed the standards or attended a VOH in the past year. Please take a moment to complete this brief survey.

Eligibility Bulletin Overview for Counties/Administrative Entities Webcast UPDATED

- A detailed training for County/Administrative Entity Qualified Developmental Disability Professionals (QDDPs) on the process to determine eligibility for services through the Office of Developmental Programs. SCOs will benefit from review of the webcast to further their understanding of the eligibility process.

UPDATED Children with Medical Complexities Training Series - Part 1: Expanding Supports for Children with Medical Complexities RESCHEDULED

- The session previously scheduled for Thursday, April 21 is will now be held on Tuesday, May 10 from 1:00 pm to 2:30 pm. If you previously registered for this session, you do not need to re-register. You should have received an email from GoTo Webinar announcing the rescheduling.

ODP Events Training Calendar May 2022

- Please find The Office of Developmental Programs’ May External Training and Events Calendar. Registration links to all sessions can be accessed by clicking on the blue hyperlinks. Please share widely.

PAFN Event: Adult Siblings of People with Intellectual Disabilities/Autism Webinar

- This group of adult siblings will have the opportunity guide the group's direction, network with other siblings, talk about your lived experience, hear from experts on topics relevant to sibling life, have open and informative discussions, and plan for a future that holds true potential for you and your family.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from April 11th 2022 through April 22nd 2022.

Thank you for following MyODP Communications!

The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19). 

ODP Announcement 22-035:Update on ODP’s Expectation for Resuming In-Person Individual Monitoring Conducted by Supports Coordinators 

- To announce the release of the ODP Supports Coordinator Tip Sheet for Returning to In Person Individual Monitoring and to provide registration information for an upcoming ODP webinar regarding these expectations.

ODP Announcement 22-034: Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) Amendment Approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)

- The purpose of this communication is to inform all interested stakeholders that the amendment to the AAW has been approved by the CMS.

ODP Announcement 22-036: Announcing an Online Tool for Reporting Residential Vacancies

- The purpose of this communication is to announce a new optional online tool for reporting and tracking residential vacancies

ODP 22-019 UPDATE: COVID-19 American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funding for Respite and Family Driven Support Services (FDSS)

- The purpose of this communication is to inform stakeholders of ARPA funds that are available to AEs to disperse in order to meet respite and/or the Family Driven Support Services (FDSS) needs of individuals on the waiting list who do not currently receive waiver funded services.

ODP Announcement 22-037: Dual Diagnosis Professional Conference Series May 11, 2022: Ensuring Responsive Support Options for Persons with Intellectual and Other Developmental Disabilities and Problematic Sexual Behaviors

- The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requests your assistance sharing the attached communication; ODPANN 22-037: Dual Diagnosis Professional Conference Series May 11, 2022: Ensuring Responsive Support Options for Persons with Intellectual and Other Developmental Disabilities and Problematic Sexual Behaviors. 

ODP Announcement 22-038: : Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) Provider Information Table Updated

- The ODP has updated the AAW Provider Information Table to reflect the April 1, 2022 waiver amendment.

SAU1 Events Calendar April 2022

- Spread your power to friends and family! Share this flyer with people you trust. Families, staff, and guests are welcome to listen and learn.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Booster Recommendation Update

- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to recommend that all eligible adults, adolescents, and children 5 and older be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccines, which includes getting an initial booster when eligible.

Children with Medical Complexities Training Series - Part 1: Expanding Supports for Children with Medical Complexities

- In this introductory session to providing supports to children with medical complexities, ODP Medical Director, Gregory Cherpes MD and Chief Nursing Officer, Rhonda Gengler RN will provide an overview of the training series topics that will be covered in greater detail in subsequent sessions.

Registration Now Open--2022 Everyday Lives Conference

-The Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs invites you to register for the 2022

 Virtual Everyday Lives Conference! 

The Arc of Pennsylvania Customized Employment Job Development training - May 18-20, 2022

- Attendees will learn how to develop an employer-focused approach to negotiating customized job descriptions on behalf of individuals with disabilities.

Recording Now Available: Update on the Office of Developmental Programs' (ODP) Expectation for Resuming In-Person Individual Monitoring Conducted By Supports Coordinators

- On April 5, 2022, ODP presented an informational guidance session including a question & answer (Q&A) period to address the resumption of in-person monitoring of participants by Supports Coordinators.

Recording Now Available:  ARPA Supplemental Payment to Address Staff Training, Credentialing, and Business Associates Programs for Employment

- On April 4, 2022, the Office of Developmental Programs presented a question and answer (Q&A) session on the use of ARPA funding in helping to increase staff qualifications, pay, and recruiting.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from March 28th 2022 through April 8th 2022.

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The Office of Developmental Programs has created a Coronavirus (COVID-19) Updates webpage for stakeholders to stay up to date with updates and r-resources from ODP. Please also visit MyODP News Online for new articles related Coronavirus (COVID-19).  

ODP Announcement 22-099 UPDATE: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)--Clarification of Staff Reporting of COVID-19

- To provide further updated instructions on the use of the Health Risk Screening (HRS) Web PortalI in Staff Reporting cases of COVID-19 and provide a reminder that timely reporting is essential to ensure system responsiveness to COVID-19 outbreaks.

ODP Announcement 22-021 UPDATE: Preparation for the Upcoming Rate Increases for the Adult Autism Waiver

- To provide guidance on the upcoming rate increases for the Adult Autism Waiver.

ODP Announcement 22-025: UPDATE Vendor Fiscal Employer Agent (VFEA) Wage Ranges and Benefit Allowance for Specific Participant Directed Services Effective March 1, 2022

- This Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) communication is intended to provide the hourly wage and benefits ranges for specific PDS for participants utilizing the VF/EA Financial Management Services.

ODP Announcement 22-029: Opportunity for Certification Program for Cornell University’s Work Incentives Practitioner Credential

- This is an opportunity for providers to have a staff person(s) participate in a virtual certification program with the goal of receiving a Work Incentives Practitioner credential.

ODP Announcement 22-030: Open for Public Comment: Proposed Amendment to the Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) Effective July 1, 2022

- The purpose of this communication is to announce that the proposed amendment to the AAW is available for public review and comment. 

ODP Announcement 22-031: ARPA - One-Time Supplemental Payment to Address Staff Training, Credentialing, and Business Associates Programs for Employment

- The purpose of this communication is to provide guidance about the process for providers and Supports Coordination Organizations to request one-time payments to address staff training, credentialing, and business associates programs for employment.

UPDATE 22-031: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)--American Rescue Plan Act: One-Time Supplemental Payment to Address Staff Training, Credentialing, and Business Associates Programs for Employment

- To provide guidance about the process for providers and Supports Coordination Organizations to request one-time payments to address staff training, credentialing, and business associates programs for employment.

ODP Announcement 22-032: Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Quality Management (QM) Virtual Certification Classes: Registration Now Open for July - December 2022

- To provide information on the registration process for ODP’s Virtual QM Certification Classes being offered in July – December 2022.

ASD Virtual Seminar: Positive Behavioral Supports: Meaningful, Everyday Application --Registration is Open!

- ASD will provide you with tools and ways to infuse PBS into your programs and supports to strengthen your focus on supporting a positive quality of life.

DHH Summer Academy Flyer

- The Summer Academy is a two-week program for high school students who are deaf or hard of hearing and preparing for entry into post-secondary education leading to competitive integrated employment.

Supporters Toolbox Podcast: Go With The Flow

- We will talk about how we can support someone to intentionally find more flow in their lives.

American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA):Supplemental Payment to Address Staff Training, Credentialing, and Business Associates Programs for Employment Q&A

- Join ODP Deputy Secretary Kristin Ahrens and Bureau Director of Policy & Quality Management Jeremy Yale to discuss the recent announcement about the ODP American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) One-Time Supplemental Payment to Address Staff Training, Credentialing, and Business Associates Programs for Employment.

Positive Practices Quarterly Meeting - April 14, 2022 - Embracing Behavioral Supports and Meaningful Applications

- This session will engage participants to take an active role in behavioral interventions and expand one’s knowledge with principles and practices for dual diagnosed individuals and trauma.

This is the ODP's Weekly Digest announcements from March 6th 2022 through March 20th 2022.

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