Children’s Behavioral Health Services Provider Meeting
Wednesday, December 14, 2022, 9:00AM - 11:00AM
TEAMS ONLY

PLEASE FIND THE AGENDA AS AN ATTACHMENT AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS PAGE

Please join us for our Children’s Behavioral Health Services Provider meeting Wednesday, December 14, 2022, from 9:00am to 11:00am, via TEAMS (TEAMS pre-registration information is included at the bottom of this page).

Who should attend: Program Managers/Supervisors of: Behavioral Health Home Coordinators, Home and Community Based Providers, Outpatient Clinicians, Rehabilitative Community Support Services, and Targeted Case Managers actively serving youth with behavioral health challenges.

MEETING CONTENT:  This meeting will feature updates from OCFS, MaineCare and Kepro. Additionally, we will have a discussion about future meetings and topics of interest.
Time will be allotted for attendees to have the opportunity to learn, network, and collaborate with peers.  

ATTACHMENTS: Attached to this communication are the following:

• 12.14.22 CBHS Provider Meeting Agenda.pdf
• CBHS Provider Meeting Q&A 7-19-22.pdf

REGISTRATION INFORMATION: The TEAMS meeting registration information is included below:
Register here

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Director’s MessageRebuilding UnderwayThe past few years have been hard on everyone: the individuals supported by our services; their families and friends; the agencies, staff, volunteers and advocates providing support; and public agency staff at OADS and in sister agencies across state government. Although COVID-19 is not fully behind us, we are now focused on rebuilding our system with an eye to the future.  Armed with one-time funding from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) has launched several initiatives to make our array of services more resilient and innovative so they can adapt to a rapidly changing landscape. Many of you have expressed interest in helping and in knowing more about what we’re doing.  In this first edition of our newsletter, you can learn about a sampling of work under way and how to locate more information and stay in touch with us.  Highlights include:

• RISE, an effective new model of support for individuals who have experienced abuse that has been endorsed in the Elder Justice Roadmap;
• A $10 million fund to support innovation grants to deliver home and community based services (HCBS) in ways that promote independence and true membership in our communities;
• Caring for ME, a marketing campaign to attract more people to careers in direct care and support;
• The Cabinet on Aging, created by Governor Mills to address the opportunities and needs of Maine’s rapidly aging population; and
• A new self-directed service option for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and Autism.

Many of these initiatives were developed as part of Maine’s Home and Community Based Services Improvement Plan, which allocates more than $240 million to HCBS Access, Innovation and Quality over the next three years.  You can find links to OADS’ major initiatives here. Thank you for your interest.  We look forward to working with you as we build a stronger system that responds to people’s needs well into the future.
~Paul Saucier, Director

Rise Model Receives AttentionAn exciting project involving Maine Adult Protective Services (APS) was recently profiled in the journal The Gerontologist. Together with researchers, Maine APS helped to develop the “RISE model” for working with older clients who have experienced abuse, neglect, or exploitation. “RISE” reflects a focus on Repairing harm, Inspiring change, Supporting decisions, and Empowering choice. Started in Aroostook and Cumberland counties and expanded statewide, this model focuses on an older adult clients’ goals and needs, and, if the client wishes, includes support for the harmer and/or the client-harmer relationship. RISE complements existing APS practices and fills an important gap in meeting the needs of older adults experiencing harm. We are grateful to have been able to participate in this project, and we continue to see the benefits of the program to APS clients.
A second article on the project involving the RISE model was published in the Journal of Elder Abuse and Neglect. The article discusses the RISE model and the Elder Services Connections program from the perspective of the Adult Protective Services caseworkers who make referrals to the program. The article is based on interviews conducted by researchers with APS caseworkers, and we thank the caseworkers who participated for contributing to this work!
The Elder Service Connections program is also being bolstered by a newly announced Elder Justice Innovation Grant through the Administration on Community Living. Elder Abuse Institute of Maine (EIAME) was awarded the grant over a two-year period in collaboration with Maine APS, as well as New Hampshire APS. The grant will allow EAIME to expand the RISE program to test a substance use intervention model called RISESUP and assist clients who are impacted by substance use in some way. 
The Elder Services Connections program (a “wraparound service pilot”) was recommended for continuation in the Elder Justice Roadmap due to the demonstrated success of the program to date.


“Although COVID-19 is not fully behind us, we are now focused on rebuilding our
system with an eye to the future.” 

COVID-19 Immunization GrantIn the Fall of 2021, OADS partnered with the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to receive funding through the COVID-19 Immunization Grant.  This is a three-year federal health equity grant, which aims to improve education and vaccination status for COVID-19 and flu among certain population groups in Maine, such as older and disabled adults, and adults living in rural areas. These are groups that felt the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic more than others.
OADS has partnered with many local organizations through this grant to better serve the people mentioned above.  For example, OADS has helped to perform the following grant-funded activities:

1. The Maine Long Term Care Ombudsman Program (MLTCOP) and Ethos Marketing and Design have created the “Power of Care” Immunization Campaign. The goal is to increase COVID-19 vaccination rates among direct care and support staff in all Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) settings. The Power of Care campaign has launched a website -- https://www.mainepowerofcare.com/-- as well as a social media presence on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. In the upcoming weeks, Power of Care will be recruiting direct care and support staff leaders in long term care facilities across the state to serve as Power of Care Ambassadors as an additional strategy to encourage vaccination among staff.
2. The program works with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) care providers to establish vaccination clinics for individuals with IDD, their families, and staff. To date, this program has provided over 300 vaccinations and continues to serve the community. Inquire with your care provider to see if they are offering a clinic in your area – or watch the OADS Facebook page to see announcements about upcoming clinics.
3. This grant program includes an outreach effort to improve vaccine uptake among the service populations receiving LTSS. Questions specific to vaccine confidence have been added to the comprehensive assessments that are completed for individuals seeking LTSS through Maine’s assessment services vendor, Maximus. To date this program has provided outreach to over 2,000 individuals.
4. Maine’s Service Coordination Agencies, SeniorsPlus and Alpha One, help to arrange home care and other forms of LTSS. Through this grant, these organizations are also providing vaccine support, outreach, and education for COVID-19 boosters and flu vaccination. To date this outreach has reached nearly 1,500 members across Maine.

These are only some of the activities provided under the COVID-19 Immunization Grant.  OADS and the Maine CDC will continue their partnership under this grant, and work with these local organizations, and others, throughout the grant’s expiration date of June 30, 2024.

APS CampaignAdult Protective Services recently launched a public service announcement (PSA) campaign on radio stations around the state and on social media to encourage members of the public to be on the lookout for abuse, neglect, and exploitation of incapacitated and dependent adults and to report it. The PSAs will run periodically through the rest of this year. Remember: if an incapacitated or dependent adult in your life is experiencing abuse, neglect, or exploitation, please call 1-800-624-8404 or (207) 287-1234. The phone line is available 24/7 or you can make a report online here.
 
Governor Mills Launches Cabinet on AgingGovernor Mills signed an Executive Order in June 2022, establishing Maine’s new Cabinet on Aging. The Cabinet on Aging was established to eliminate silos across State government, enhance communication, and accelerate actions and improved coordination to help every person in Maine age safely, affordably, in ways and settings that best serve their needs, including examining new modes of long-term services and supports. . Commissioner Lambrew of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Commissioner Fortman of the Department of Labor are co-chairing the Cabinet, and it is supported by the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future (GOPIF).
According to the Governor’s Order, the Cabinet will meet quarterly, and recently met in October for the second time. During the October meeting, the Cabinet reviewed the results of two listening sessions held on September 19th & 28th, discussed potential avenues for on-going stakeholder engagement, and received an update on the Respite for ME program. 
The Cabinet has a website on the Governor’s Office of Policy Innovation and the Future and plans to continue gathering input on its priorities through the end of this year.
If you have suggestions for cross-departmental issues that should be prioritized by the Cabinet on Aging, you can provide your input via this contact form.

Attention CAREGIVERS!Have you heard about Respite for ME?  Respite for ME Grants, funded by the Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan, will allow caregivers to access respite care as well as other services not currently covered by existing programs. Eligible caregivers may receive up to $2,000 to access needed services.  You can learn more at the FAQ found on our website!

Upcoming Behavioral Health and Crisis Services Report Stakeholder MeetingThe Department contracted with the UNH Institute on Disability National Center for START Services to conduct a system evaluation regarding mental health service experiences for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs (IDD-MH). At this meeting, the researchers from NCSS will present summaries of data gathered and recommendations for enhancing and improving mental health and crisis services for people with IDD. System stakeholders, including service providers, people receiving these services, family members, advocates, and others are invited to this meeting with OADS and the National Center for START Services (NCSS)* on Monday, December 5, 2022, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.
This meeting will be held on Zoom. Please use this link to register to attend:
https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrc-6hqjwuGd0p11yEXNBjeYLxR5PCKLrg
If you need an accommodation, such as real time transcription and captioning (CART) or American Sign Language (ASL) or other language interpretation, please contact Miranda Whalen at miranda.whalen@maine.gov by November 28, 2022.
*The Center for START (Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment) Services at the Institute on Disability/UCED at the University of New Hampshire is a national initiative that works to strengthen efficiencies and service outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs in the community.


Attention IDD Service providers!Did you know that the COVID Immunization Grant program will reimburse providers of Intellectual and Developmental Disability (IDD) services for hosting COVID/flu vaccination clinics? Eligible clinics should be focused on serving individuals with IDD, their families, and staff. A reimbursement of $2,000 is available for clinic-related costs, such as provider staff expenses, clinic set-up, advertisement, and clean-up costs.  The program will cover costs for two vaccine clinics per year, each being eligible for reimbursement (up to a grand total of $4,000 for two clinics). If you would like to participate in the program or learn more, please email Megan Casey, the OADS Vaccine Outreach Manager, at megan.casey@maine.gov..

Caring For ME CampaignCaring For ME is a multimedia public service campaign that promotes direct care worker jobs as a career choice. The initial marketing work was lead by the Maine Department of Labor (MEDOL), which  convened an external advisory panel of expert stakeholders to create a web page with resources. Using Maine Jobs and Recovery Plan (MJRP) funds, MEDOL created a web page explaining career pathways, a job board, training opportunities around the state, and lists of hiring events. The Caring for ME Campaign also collected and produced 12 stories of Home and Community Based Support (HCBS) specialists to give direct care and behavioral health workers a voice about the important work they do. DHHS is excited to build on MEDOLs Caring For ME campaign using one-time American Rescue Plan section 9817 funds to recruit workers into the HCBS field. All campaign efforts will work to promote recruitment and retention efforts and to raise the status of direct care and support work as a profession in long-term services and supports positions (LTSS) throughout the State of Maine.  Stay tuned as we begin the next phase of Caring For ME!  For information about other workforce initiatives at OADS, see our workforce page


WHAT’S NEW WITH COVID-19?
On August 31, 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized new Pfizer and Moderna bivalent vaccines to be administered to those who have already received the earlier primary series and recommended boosters.  These new vaccines will “boost” immunity provided by the original monovalent vaccines and broaden immunity to include the Omicron BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants.  These 2 subvariants are highly contagious and have been responsible for the ongoing new cases and outbreaks since late Spring. 
As we enter fall and the upcoming flu season, it is important for everyone to update and maintain COVID-19 immunity.  Here are some important facts to consider:

• Monovalent COVID-19 vaccines have been proven to be safe and have offered high levels of protection against severe disease. While the monovalent vaccines will no longer be available for boosters in those over 18 years old, they will still be used for primary series vaccinations in those still unvaccinated.
• Both new Bivalent Moderna and Pfizer vaccines can be administered starting 2 months following administration of a primary vaccination or booster.
• The Moderna Bivalent vaccine is approved for people 18 years and older.
• The Pfizer Bivalent vaccine is approved for people 12 years and older.
• Getting a bivalent booster after recovering from a COVID-19 infection will provide even more protection against future COVID-19 exposures. To maximize immunity, those with recent COVID-19 infection may consider delaying the vaccine by 3 months from symptom onset or positive test.
• It is perfectly safe to receive the new Bivalent COVID-19 vaccine at the same time you receive your flu shot. In fact, it makes sense since exposure to both viruses is likely.

For more information on the new Bivalent COVID-19 Vaccines, as well as how to find a vaccine location go to www.maine.gov/covid19/vaccines.


A Path For ME OrientationPlease join OADS for an "A Path for ME" orientation in December 2022. The focus will be on the start of the "A Path for ME" Lifespan Project and the upcoming start of the needs assessment. The needs assessments will be for Section 21 and 29 members and those on the waitlist.
There will be two sessions. Each will focus on the needs and interests of the following groups:
Waiver Members and Families/Guardians: December 13, 2022 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Registration link: https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAod--tqTwvGd3WkthQFwzd-feDOnwe_-W1#/registration
Providers of Section 21 and 29 services: December 15, 2022 from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Registration link: https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qc-Ghqz4pEteeT9DfhCVElBUlAexV-PvP#/registration
If you need an accommodation, such as real time transcription and captioning (CART) or American Sign Language (ASL) or other language interpretation, please contact Miranda Whalen at miranda.whalen@maine.gov by November 30, 2022.


​Self-Directed Option Now Available to Members Receiving Section 29 Waiver ServicesSelf-directed services are home and community-based services that help individuals across all types of disabilities maintain their independence and determine for themselves what mix of supports and services work best for them. Self-direction provides individuals enrolled under Section 29, with a flexible budget that enables them to hire their own workers. This allows decisions about who is hired, when they will work, how much they get paid, and managing the worker. If an individual wishes to use this option but prefers to have another person manage these responsibilities, they can appoint a representative to act on their behalf.
Self-direction allows you to manage your own services and puts you in the driver's seat. You have choice and control over:

• The types of services you want
• Who will provide the services and support
• When the services or support is provided
• Where the services or support are provided
• How the service or support is provided

Services that can be Self-Directed:

• Home Support (Quarter Hour)
• One-On-One Community Membership
• Individual-Directed Goods and Services
• Assistive Technology Devices
• Home Accessibility Adaptations

If you would like to explore or start self-directed services, contact your Case Manager to discuss your options. Case Managers can send referrals or questions to referrals@gtindependence.com or call 1-877-659-4500. 

Behavioral Health Support and Crisis Services System Analysis Report Stakeholder Meeting

​You are invited to a meeting with the Office of Aging and Disability Services, Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the National Center for START Services (NCSS)* on Monday, December 5, 2022, from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM.

The Department contracted with the UNH Institute on Disability National Center for START Services to conduct a system evaluation regarding mental health service experiences for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental health needs (IDD-MH). At this meeting, the researchers from NCSS will present summaries of data gathered and recommendations for enhancing and improving mental health and crisis services for people with IDD. 

The Department has reviewed this report and will present proposed action plans to address the issues raised in this report from NCSS.  A copy of The Executive Summary can be found here.  After this stakeholder meeting, the full report, and the Department’s proposed action plan will be shared on OAD’s website. 
 
System stakeholders, including service providers, people receiving these services, family members, advocates, and others are invited to attend.
 
This meeting will be held on Monday, December 5, 2022, from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM.
 
Please use this link to register to attend: https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrc-6hqjwuGd0p11yEXNBjeYLxR5PCKLrg
 
If you need an accommodation, such as real time transcription and captioning (CART) or American Sign Language (ASL) or other language interpretation, please contact Miranda Whalen at miranda.whalen@maine.gov by November 28, 2022.
 
*The Center for START (Systemic, Therapeutic, Assessment, Resources, and Treatment) Services at the Institute on Disability/UCED at the University of New Hampshire is a national initiative that works to strengthen efficiencies and service outcomes for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and behavioral health needs in the community.

DHHS-OADS Section 21/29 Waiver Application Training for DS Case Managers

Date: 12/2/22   9-11am
This training will introduce the concepts of OADS’ enhanced person-centered planning process and review the forms and assessments required for applications for Sections 21 and 29 waiver services. This training is suitable for new and seasoned case managers whether they have never submitted an application, have not submitted one in a while, or submit them often and want to learn how to make the process less difficult and time-consuming. We will also discuss the priority levels for the Sec 21 waiting list and when to submit a Reconsideration of Priority.
When: Dec 2, 2022 09:00 AM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Register in advance for this meeting:
https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0odu6rqTMqHdJHOUb3uwdCvV7l5ttXa9ha
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

"The latest demographic trends hold promise for Maine"
New issue brief from Maine Children's Alliance

"Trends in demographic data represent both challenges and opportunities for Maine to achieve the goal of being a thriving place for all to live, work, and raise a family. With the oldest population in the nation, Maine faces the challenges of caring for older adults and meeting its current and future workforce needs. On the positive side, migration to Maine by people from out-of-state and shifts in racial representation are contributing to a decline in the median age, as well as younger and more diverse communities. By recognizing the trends in our population, we can better plan for the programs, services, and systems that will ensure greater long-term social and economic prosperity for children, families, and our state."

Click here for the full report.

"A Path for ME" Orientation
Assessments for Section 21 and 29

Please join the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) for an "A Path for ME" orientation in December 2022. The focus will be on the start of the "A Path for ME" Lifespan Project and the upcoming start of the needs assessment. The needs assessments will be for Section 21 and 29 members and those on the waitlist.

Orientation topics include:

• How will the data from this assessment contribute to the design of the Lifespan Project?
• How does the assessment inform the Person-Centered Planning process?
• What communication can you expect before and after?
• What happens during an assessment?
• How will this assessment aid in better planning, service design, and understanding of member support needs?

There will be two sessions. Each will focus on the needs and interests of the following groups:
Waiver Members and Families/Guardians:
December 13, 2022 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Registration link: https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAod--tqTwvGd3WkthQFwzd-feDOnwe_-W1#/registration 

​Providers of Section 21 and 29 services:
December 15, 2022 from 11:00am to 12:00pm
Registration link: https://mainestate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0qc-Ghqz4pEteeT9DfhCVElBUlAexV-PvP#/registration
 
If you need an accommodation, such as real time transcription and captioning (CART) or American Sign Language (ASL) or other language interpretation, please contact Miranda Whalen at miranda.whalen@maine.gov by November 30, 2022.

The Department of Health and Human Services is conducting a follow-up feedback survey to gather further information from people with autism and their families about their quality of life and the kinds of services they feel could improve it. This survey is in addition to a previous satisfaction survey released earlier this month. Both surveys will provide the Department with valuable information about how satisfied people are with their current services as well as other services that could make a positive impact on the lives of people with autism and their families. 
 
If you already participated in the previous Part 1: Satisfaction Survey, Thank You!  If you have not participated and would like to, click on this link or copy it into your web browser: 
https://usouthmaine.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7aipmYu90xc9oRE 
 
If you would like to participate in the Part 2: Quality of Life Feedback Survey, click on this link or copy it into your web browser:  https://usouthmaine.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_2rgp7uCb5hAwiFw
 
If you need help completing either survey or have any questions about them, please contact Craig Patterson at Craig.Patterson@maine.gov or (207)441-1168 (cell).
 
Both surveys will be open for responses until 5:00pm, November 4, 2022. 
 
Thank you again for participating!

MPF Family Support Navigator Training
November 18th at the Cohen Community Center in Hallowell, ME
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Are you the parent of, or caregiver to, a child with a disability
or special health care need?
Would you like to share your knowledge to help other Maine families?
If so, this opportunity may interest you!
 
Maine Parent Federation (MPF) is seeking parents, grandparents, and caregivers of children with disabilities and special health care needs who would like to become a Family Support Navigator (FSN) to provide peer support to other Maine families. The FSN program matches experienced parents with other parents who need support while learning to navigate systems such as Special Education, Vocational Rehabilitation, MaineCare, Adult Services, etc., and assists them in locating local and statewide resources while helping parents learn to advocate for themselves.
 
During the COVID-19 Pandemic support is provided through phone, text, email, and social media platforms such as zoom. In-person support can be provided if both parent and navigator agree.
 
A Family Support Navigator is a part-time independent consultant position. MPF contracts with you to provide up to 10 hours of support to each family you help. We pay $15.00 per hour of direct support to a family, a $40 monthly stipend for phone/internet, and .45 cents per mile travel reimbursement. This is a flexible opportunity as you set your own hours/schedule. MPF provides on-going supervision and technical assistance.
 
The first part of the training will be in-person on Friday, November 18, 2022 at the Cohen Community Center in Hallowell, Maine from 10AM to 4PM. Lunch will be provided. Childcare is not available. The second part of the training is virtual and can be completed as your schedule allows.
 
We offer a $150 stipend after completion of the training and mileage reimbursement.
 
Please contact Deborah Newcombe at (800) 870-7746 or E-mail: dnewcombe@mpf.org to receive an application and job description and to answer any questions.

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services is pleased to invite you to provide input on a comprehensive statewide strategic plan to serve people in the State with behavioral health needs throughout their lifespans (LD 1262). 
​
You are invited to participate in the development of this strategic plan by attending a public stakeholder session on either October 28 and November 4, 2022.  Both sessions will be identical.  Please click the corresponding link below to register for one of the dates and feel free to share this invitation with other interested organizations who may wish to be represented. 

• Friday, October 28, 2022 – 12:00-1:30pm 

• Friday, November 4, 2022 – 12:00-1:30pm 

​After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. In addition to these public webinars, we will also be circulating a survey to solicit input in the upcoming weeks. If you have questions, please email alison.gold@maine.gov 

Autism Society Maine - Fall Conference

ASM invites you to be part of their Annual Fall Autism Conference on November 5, 2022 at the Cross Insurance Center in Bangor Maine.
 
The conference will cover these Autism related topics:

• Autism and Neurodiversity
• Autism, Trauma, and Self-care
• Empower the Learner
• Strategies for Advocacy
• Conversations with Autistic Adults and Youth

 
Keynote Presentation: "Isn't Everyone a Little Autistic?"
 
Presented by: Jay Collins, Lisa Morgan, M.Ed. CAS, Brigid Rankowski, and Robert Lagos
 
Autistic Adults Talk About Autism and Neurodiversity - Neurodiversity is the idea that people have unique brains and experience the world differently.  The premise being there's no 'right way' to interpret and interact with the world.
 
A panel of autistic adults will explore neurodiversity through lived experience and discuss the impact of society accepting people as neurodiverse.
 
This event is in-person* and FREE to those who live and work with individuals with Autism.  Contact hours are available.
 
* Please note: ASM will be following the CDC guidelines regarding COVID-19.
 
Register here: 
http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07ejejg67ad4504e5a&llr=d9awcycab
 
Questions? Contact ASM at 800-273-5200