AUGUST 2010

DADS ELIMINATES CASE MANAGEMENT

Yes, you read it correctly! Effective June 1, 2010, the Case Mangement function is eliminated. This is a direct result of the most recent legislative session. DADS will no longer provide funding to HCS Program Providers to coordinate HCS services. Alternatively, a similar service will now be provided by each Mental Retardation Authority (MRA). This new service will be referred to as Service Coordination and each consumer will be assigned a Service Coordinator. There is still much confusion as to exactly what duties the Service Coordinators will perform. As it stands, DADS still expects HCS Program Providers to continue providing all services formally funded by Case Management revenue without compensation. This is fiscally impossible for small private providers. Previously, HCS Case Managers conducted home visits, coordinated the provision of all HCS services, conducted service planning meetings, developed service plans and training goals, completed all related documentation and served as the go-to person for consumers and families. This was clearly a full-time position for which our Case Managers were well compensated utilizing reimbursement funds specifically for the performance of these activities. The new Service Coordinators from each MRA are stating that they will not perform the majority of these duties yet DADS mandates HCS Program Providers continue the provision of these services without compensation. Welcome Home, Inc. will continue to comply with all DADS HCS Service Principles and will employ a representative to act as a liaison between Welcome Home, HCS consumers & families and the MRA Service Coordinators. This will be a part-time position with the title of Service Coordinator.

WELCOME JONATHAN "JONA" CISNEROS

Welcome Home, Inc. is pleased to welcome Jonathan "Jona" Cisneros, HCS Service Coordinator to our team!  Jona will be working in cooperation with each respective AACOG Service Coordinator assigned to Welcome Home's HCS consumers to ensure service provision continues with as little disruption as possible. Jona is results-oriented and committed to improving the lives of each individual served by Welcome Home. Jona is settling in and enjoying meeting everyone. Jona is a welcome addition to our team and we look forward to his participation in our growth and development. As Welcome Home no longer receives funding for Case Management, Jona will not have set office hours. He will work primarily from his residence and participate in office activities, home visits, meetings and conferences as necessary. 

PROGRAM CONTACT:

Janelle Tamez, CEO ........................................... Ext. 205

jtamez@welcomehome-texas.com