■ P C P A N E W S

Evans Delivers President’s Award

PCPA and PARF are planning a celebration of the pending merger.

May 13 – 14 Nittany Lion Inn

State College

Senior leaders from both associations are invited to attend. Details and registration information will be available in the coming weeks.

For more information, contact Jen Bankard (jen@paproviders.org).

Jon Evans (l) presents the 2012 PCPA President’s Award to Dr. Rohan Ganguli during a visit at Safe Harbor Behavioral Health in December 2012.

PCPA President Jon Evans delivered the 2012 PCPA President’s Award to Rohan Ganguli, MD, FRCP(C) in Erie. Dr. Ganguli was one of two recipients to be honored with the award in 2012, but was unable to attend the October conference to be recognized. Evans honored Dr. Ganguli in recognition of his dedication to reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes in people living with serious mental illness.

Throughout his career, Dr. Ganguli’s research has focused on the underlying disease mechanisms and treatment of

schizophrenia and related psychotic illness. For the last decade, his re-search has been specifically directed at understanding, preventing, and treating causes of increased risk of heart disease and diabetes in persons suffering from psychotic illness. His chronic disease management has a particular emphasis on developing and testing the efficacy and effectiveness of behavioral inter-vention in changing lifestyle to reduce cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and premature death in individuals living with schizophrenia, bipolar, and other psychotic illness.

Dr. Ganguli conduct-ed research and pro-vided treatment for more than 25 years at Western Psychi-atric Institute and Clinic of UPMC. He is now a senior scien-tist at the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health and Profes-sor of Psychiatry and Canada Research Chair at the Univer-sity of Toronto. PCPA congratulates Dr. Ganguli and thanks him for his work. ■

Merger Celebration

An informational newsletter compiled by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association for the MH, IDD, and D&A communities

F E B R U A R Y 2 0 1 3

providernews P C P A N E W S

Health Care Opportunities Task Force – Federal Focus The Health Care Opportunities Task Force met via conference call January 8. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) officials Kevin Malone and David Shillcutt presented on the recent pro-posed federal health care reform guidance and implications for behavioral health providers, the SAMHSA enrollment communications plan, and the provider business operations training. They also shared details about other technical assistance resources available to providers. Brief overviews were provided by Debbie Feierman MSW, LCSW, Centers for Medicare and Medic-aid Services, Philadelphia Regional Office and Pam Kania, Regional Admin-istrator from Region III, Health Resources and Services Administration. The task force is recommending that a small group meet with the Corbett administration regarding health care reform and that PCPA hold a health care summit, similar to that from 2012. The next meeting is February 7. ■

“A New CommonWealth” The PCPA/PARF 2013 Conference

The 2013 Conference Committee has selected a theme for the joint PCPA/PARF fall conference at Seven Springs Mountain Resort, Champion. In se-lecting the theme, the committee focused on the uniting of the two asso-ciations and the stated goals of increasing presence, leverage, power, and value. Energized by the work and discussions taking place in this planning, the committee wanted to highlight the wealth of influence, knowledge, advocacy, and passion to serve people across Pennsylvania that is being created by this collaboration.

A Call for Presentations and information for exhibitors and sponsors will be released in the next months. The committee anticipates an energized and exciting educational and networking event. Mark your calendar and plan to join us for “A New CommonWealth,” October 8 – 11. ■

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2 PCPA News 3 Director’s Viewpoint 4 Merger Update 4 Mental Health Headlines 5 Legislative Affairs 7 State News Briefs

9 Drug & Alcohol Action 10 IDD Focus 12 On the Autism Spectrum 12 Classifieds 13 Children’s Corner 16 Committee Reports

I N T H I S I S S U E

Executive DirectorGeorge J. Kimes

Executive Vice President Richard S. Edley, PhD

Deputy DirectorLynn Cooper

Policy SpecialistsLinda Drummond, MPAConnell O’Brien, MEd Betty Simmonds

Director of Legislative AffairsAnne McHugh Leisure, MHA

Technical & Conference Services CoordinatorKris Ericson, PhD

Membership & Marketing CoordinatorSteve Neidlinger, CAE

Director of Training & Resource DevelopmentJen Bankard

Office Manager Cindy Lloyd

Administrative/Fiscal AssistantTieanna Lloyd

Secretary Kathy Morrow

©2013. This newsletter is written by the Pennsylvania Community Providers Association (PCPA) for the mental health, intellectual disability, and addictive disease communities. This informational newsletter is published monthly. Deadline for publication is the third Friday of every month.

Pennsylvania Community Providers Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

717-364-3280—Phone717-364-3287—Fax

www.paproviders.org

■ D I R E C T O R ’ S V I E W P O I N T

I find myself befuddled by the Corbett adminis-tration’s policy decisions. Public discussion of the need for expanding mental health services has increased dramatically following a series of tragic mass shootings in places like Aurora, CO and Newtown, CT. Editorial after editorial has reaffirmed that more mental health services are needed. In Pennsylvania, both Republicans and Democrats have indicated support for mental health services. The usually conservative Lancaster Journal opined in an editorial titled “Mental Health Myopia” that counties reducing funding for Student Assistance Programs (SAP) did not make sense. However, while the sentiment and support for mental health services finally seems to garnering some champions, the Corbett administration appears to be continuing efforts to reduce children’s mental health services.

Some of the major threats include:

E “Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS) Redesign” is reducing access to services and service levels for many commu-nities where children and families, schools, and social service providers depend on them because there are few other options. This includes Summer Therapeutic Activity Pro-grams. It is important to remember that prior to the development of BHRS, the public mental health system in Pennsylvania was primarily an adult service system. The addi-tion of these “wrap around” services triggered growth that significantly improved access to service for children and youth. Are there changes that need to be made? Absolutely, but these changes need to be made with input from families, providers, and payers, and the changes need to occur in a planned and thoughtful manner.

E State government has been giving only “lip service” to the idea of expanding the use of evidence-based practices (EBPs). We have repeatedly seen enthusiastic agencies and clinical professionals invest time and money

in training, equipment, and program develop-ment only to see the lack of support result in EBPs being fiscally unsustainable.

E The misguided effort to use Act 62, rather than working with families, providers, univer-sities and managed care organizations to ad-vance the goal of quality services, has placed at grave risk the current and future service capacity for autism services under Medical As-sistance and commercial insurance coverage.

E Cuts to county funding, resulting in counties reducing or eliminating an array of child/adolescent services, including SAP and family based programs.

As my good friend and former Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration Administrator Charley Curie said in his testimony to the Florida legislature in January, “We need to direct our efforts on the treatment of emerging mental illnesses that begin to become evident in children and adolescents during what the science is telling us is the “window of opportunity” (the ages of 12 to 17). Intervening during these ear-lier stages can prevent and mitigate more serious episodes of psychosis in the future. A focus on children’s mental health care in school and treat-ment settings, along with educating families on where to turn for help are critical elements that can directly impact the prevention of the types of tragedies we have witnessed.”

Our children are our most valuable resource. To be sure, examinations and revisions of programs to become more accountable and to even more quality-focused needs to occur, but wholesale re-duction of sound programs can only have drastic consequences for our children. ■

George J. Kimes, Executive Directorgeorge@paproviders.org

This column represents my opinion, not necessarily that of the association.

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Threats to Children’s Mental Health Services

Richard S. Edley, PhD

Merger Update

On January 16 the Joint Oper-ating Committee (JOC) over-seeing the proposed merger

of PCPA and PARF met in person to review a number of critical issues. The group was walked through a legal presentation by Tom Sweeney, the attorney representing both associa-tions at this juncture, and included:

E Plan of Merger,E Articles of Incorporation,E Bylaws, andE Due Diligence Schedules.

Date Time Region Place

February 5 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Southwest Sheraton Station Square, 300 W Station Square Dr, Pittsburgh

February 6 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Central Carlisle Country Club, 1242 Harrisburg Pike, Carlisle

February 14 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Northeast Genetti Hotel, 77 E Market St, Wilkes-Barre

February 19 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Southeast Hampton Inn Philadelphia Center, City-Convention Center, 1301 Race St, Philadelphia

By Richard S. Edley, PhD

The process continues with each orga-nization having hired its own attorney for legal representation to complete due diligence. These attorneys will then make independent recommenda-tions to the respective boards of direc-tors and members as to the merger.

The JOC also reviewed the proposed dues structure and principles, the communications plan, joint confer-ence planning, issues related to board structure, and potential names for the new, merged association. These

and other issues will be reviewed in detail at regional meetings where Full Members of both associations have been invited to discuss the merger. The first of these was held January 22 in Meadville where several Northwest PCPA and PARF members braved a snowstorm to attend. The remaining meetings are listed below. I look forward to seeing you at these events. For more information or to RSVP, contact Jen Bankard (jen@paproviders.org). ■

Regional Meetings

SAMHSA Disaster Response Template Toolkit AvailableThe Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has developed resources and toolkits on a variety of topics in disaster behavioral health. It recently issued a Disaster Response Template Toolkit (www.samhsa.gov/dtac/dbhis/dbhis_templates_intro.asp) which includes public educa-tion materials that can be used by disaster behavioral health response programs to assist individuals affected by a disaster. Customizable print materials (brochures, flyers, newsletters, tip sheets, wallet cards, etc.), multimedia materials (sample blog posts, public service announcement scripts, etc.) and links to downloadable information and templates used in previous disaster situations are available. More information is available at www.samhsa.gov/dtac/dbhis. ■

■ M E N T A L H E A L T H H E A D L I N E S

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■ L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

For additional information on legislative issues, contact PCPA at 717-364-3280. For copies of bills, call your local legislator, the House Document Room 717-787-5320, or visit the General Assembly’s Electronic Bill Room at www.legis.state.pa.us.

Greenleaf Calls for Task Force on Violence, Reintroduces AOT Legislation Senator Stewart Greenleaf has introduced two pieces of legislation that focus on issues of interest to the provider and advocacy community. Senate Bill 77 would amend the Mental Health Procedures Act by adding provisions for Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT). The intent of the bill is to ensure that persons with mental illness who do not meet the criteria for inpatient commitment receive court-ordered outpatient treatment. The bill is modeled on a New York statute, “Kendra’s Law,” but unlike the New York legislation, utilizes only existing community programs and does not provide additional funding.

In previous legislative sessions, PCPA has opposed the implementation of AOT for a number of reasons. While the association supports efforts to ensure access to outpatient care, waiting lists for outpatient treatment already exist. Outpatient services in Pennsylvania are in crisis. Programs have closed and waiting lists for services have lengthened. Requiring unwilling individuals to participate in already strapped programs will exacerbate the crisis. The Legisla-tive Affairs Steering Committee will consider SB 77 and make recommendations regarding a current PCPA position.

Senate Resolution 6 directs the Joint State Government Commission to study the issue of violence prevention, establishing an advisory committee to conduct a review and analysis to the underlying causes of violent crime, including mass shootings. SR 6 also calls for the inclusion of recommendations for changes to mental health laws and procedures. The advisory committee will consist of 25 members, including public officials and experts on the issue of violent crime. ■

PCPA Urges Members to Visit New Legislators Thirty-three freshmen legislators were sworn in January 1. While PCPA will ensure that new legislators hear from the association in Har-risburg, it is also important (and hits closer to home) for community providers who are con-stituents to reach out and visit in the district. PCPA has shared a list of the new legislators, what counties they serve, and crafted leave-behind pieces to introduce community services issues to those who are not familiar with them. Those can be found on the PCPA web site. ■

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L E G I S L A T I V E A F F A I R S

Corbett Proposes Additional Support for ID Waiting List Governor Corbett announced his intent to propose an additional $20 million in state funds to address the intellectual disability (ID) waiting list. The additional funding is intended to provide home- and community-based services to about 1,200 adults waiting for access to programs. The funding would also provide services to 700 recent graduates and 500 adults on the emergency waiting list. It is not clear whether the additional waiting list funds would increase, reduce, or maintain funding for human services as a whole.

CCAP Outlines Budget PrioritiesThe County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania (CCAP) held a press confer-ence in January to present nine county priorities for the 2013/14 state budget. The necessity of maintaining human services funding was included as a top priority, though CCAP fell short of asking for a full restoration of the 2012/13 10 percent cuts. The commissioners also want to expand the Human Services Block Grant to any county who wishes to participate. CCAP calls for a review of county funding formulas, including the establishment of principles that need to be part of the process, in particular the role of Community Hospital Integration Project Program (CHIPP) and Southeast Integration Project Program (SIPP) dollars. CCAP wants to continue the HealthChoices behavioral health program in its current form, including the ability to re-invest savings to address local needs. CCAP also calls for counties to be assured the right of first refusal to manage intellectual disabilities services in a managed care model. The nine priorities are detailed on the CCAP web site at www.pacounties.org. ■

DiGirolamo to Address Human Services Block Grant, Funding Cuts Human services champion Representa-tive Gene DiGirolamo has issued co-sponsorship memos asking for legisla-tive support for two bills of importance to PCPA members that he plans to introduce.

One piece of legislation would restore $84 million of state funding that was cut from human services in the 2012/13 state budget. The memo notes that many are hearing about layoffs, closings, and the resulting loss of services for people resulting from last year’s budget cuts on top of years of chronic underfunding. Urging proper funding for mental health and drug and alcohol treatment, DiGirolamo indicates his bill is intended to address some of these issues of decreased access to community services. He also notes that there is sufficient money on the balance sheet for this fiscal year that would enable the restoration to be made without adversely affecting carry over for the next fiscal year.

DiGirolamo will also introduce a bill that will provide counties with the flexibility they need to spend unused funds and render the Human Services Block Grant Pilot Program unnecessary. The proposal will replace the Human Services Block Grant with a simplified and less costly method for counties to reallocate leftover program funding at the local level.

It is crucial that both bills have as many co-sponsors as possible before they are introduced. PCPA urges members to contact their legislators and ask them to co-sponsor the bills. Further questions may be addressed to Anne Leisure (anne@paproviders.org).

■ N E W M E M B E R S

PROVIDER MEMBERProject TransitionHoward Weitz, Director, Business DevelopmentChalfont

BUSINESS MEMBERSDATISErik Marsh, Executive Vice President of Sales and MarketingTampa, FL

BUSINESS MEMBERS cont.Maher DuesselLisa Ritter, PartnerHarrisburg MRW Advanced SolutionsMary Rose Worthington, OwnerKennett Square Scioto PropertiesEric LeibowitzDublin, OH

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■ S T A T E N E W S B R I E F S

Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) CodesImplementation of CPT codes continues to be problematic for providers. The Office of Medical Assistance Programs (OMAP) has not operationalized the CPT codes for psychiatry and psychotherapy for use in Medicaid Fee-for-Service programs. The Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) is unable to provide clear guidance until details of the OMAP policy related to CPT codes are determined, which is projected for mid-year. OMHSAS provided preliminary guidance based upon the information that was available to date (see December 14, 2012 PCPA Info, OMHSAS Issues Information on CPT Code Update). There are issues with delay in implementation by the Department of Public Wel-fare (DPW), varied implementation guidance from the behavioral health managed care organizations (MCOs), differences in rates/time ranges for codes among MCOs, and confusion about coding and documentation. National Council webinars (www.thenationalcouncil.org/cs/cpt_codes) and PCPA’s webinar by Zetter Health-Care offered training for providers.

In light of ongoing delays, the HealthChoices Behavioral Health Program Audit Guide for the 2012 Program Year will include the following language related to waivers that impact timeliness requirements.

Due to the Commonwealth’s implementation process for the new HIPAA- compliant v5010 transactions and the 2013 Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes, DPW has established the following waivers:

With respect to the HIPAA-compliant v5010 transactions, there was a period of time when HealthChoices Behavioral Health Primary Contractors were unable to comply with this requirement with respect to the timeliness of encounter data submissions. As a result, DPW is waiving this requirement with respect to ensuring encounters were submitted timely to OMHSAS for the period January 1 – March 31, 2012.

With respect to the CPT codes, there will be a period of time where Health-Choices Behavioral Health Primary Contractors will be unable to fully meet DPW’s expected requirements regarding the timeliness of encounter data submissions. For those psychotherapy and psychiatry-related 2013 CPT codes only, DPW is waiving the SFY 2012/2013 HealthChoices Audit Guide, MIS/Encounter Data Reporting, Compliance Requirement II.B.2. for ensuring encounters were submitted timely to DPW for the period of January 1 – June 30, 2013. Additionally, Compliance Requirement II.B.2. is NOT being waived for encounters where the procedure codes are not affected by the implemen-tation of the 2013 CPT codes.

Please note that for both of these waivers, Compliance Requirement II.B.1 is NOT being waived. The Contractor must continue to have adequate procedures in place to ensure compliance with DPW’s encounter reporting requirements.

PCPA has advocated with OMHSAS and OMAP on CPT code issues. Members are encouraged to contact Betty Simmonds (betty@paproviders.org or 717-364-3280) with questions and concerns for continued advocacy. ■

HIT EHR Incentive UpdateThe grace period for Eligible Profes-sionals (EPs) applying for Program Year 2012 ends March 30. EPs have until March 30 to apply for Electronic Health Record (EHR) Incentive Payments for program year 2012. Matthew McGeorge, who coordinates the Department of Public Welfare (DPW) EHR Incentive Program, indicates that Pennsylvania ranks sixth nationally for Medicaid (MA) Incentive Payments made with $163,404,177 as of December 2012. Payments were made to 4,068 provid-ers. Payments included $88 million to 124 eligible hospitals (EH) and over $81 million to 4,100 EPs. Payments were made to EHs and/or EPs in all counties except Fulton.

McGeorge reported that a bulletin re-garding changes made in the Septem-ber 2012 final rule will be issued. DPW has conducted pre- and post-payment audits with no adverse findings. DPW will work with behavioral health and long-term living providers to increase meaningful use of EHR. The department is developing a pilot to stimulate par-ticipation of behavioral health provid-ers in meaningful use of EHR through targeted outreach. Technical assistance may be provided to behavioral health providers not currently eligible for the EHR Incentive Program to find ways they may be able to qualify through EPs, such as better understanding of calculation of the number of encoun-ters. Technical assistance may also stimulate use of EHR for workflow and exchange of documentation with other providers in the community (e.g. hospitals or providers of other levels of care). PCPA will facilitate contact with several providers suggested through discussion with McGeorge. Technical assistance through the creation of a

Continued on page 8

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S T A T E N E W S B R I E F S

DPW Bulletins and TipsThe Department of Public Welfare (DPW) has issued a number of bulletins, which are highlighted below. Additional information and links to each can be found on the PCPA web site.

Medical Assistance Bulletins

E 01-13-01, Prior Authorization of Antipsychotics – Pharmacy Services effective January 15 and applicable to the Medical Assistance (MA) Fee-for-Service (FFS) program. Prescriptions for antipsychotics that meet a number of conditions must be prior authorized. There are exemptions to these requirements and a grandfathering provision.

E 01-13-08, Prior Authorization of Smoking Cessation Products effective January 15 and applicable to the MA FFS program. Chantix was changed from non-preferred to preferred status.DPW is removing the reference for automated prior authoriza-tion in the handbook pages. Quantity limits were added.

E 01-13-11, Preferred Drug List Update January 15, 2013 – Pharmacy Services effective January 15 and applicable to the FFS program.

E 99-13-02,HealthChoices Physical Health Managed Care New East Zone Expansion effective March 1 notifies providers that DPW will expand the physical health HealthChoices man-aged care program to all 22 counties in which ACCESS Plus operates and that ACCESS Plus will cease operation in these counties on February 28.

Provider Quick Tips #150, Provider Enrollment Application Require-ment Effective January 21, 2013 informs providers that effective January 21 DPW will only accept the current version of provider enrollment applications available on the department’s Enrollment Information web page.

Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services Bulletin 01-18-2013, Targeted Case Management (TCM) – Travel and Trans-portation Guidelines notifies providers, MCOs, and County Mental Health/Intellectual Disability Administrators that case manager travel time and time spent transporting or escorting individuals should not be billed as a unit of service.

Access the PCPA web site for additional information or contact Betty Simmonds (betty@paproviders.org) with questions. ■

community of practice with providers who can share information about how systems are used is also being considered.

Comments are due February 4 on the draft Health IT Patient Safety Action and Surveil-lance Plan that was issued December 12, 2012. Public comment will be used to finalize the plan. The draft is available at www.healthit.gov/sites/default/files/ safetyplanhhspubliccomment.pdf. Comments should be submitted to ONC.Policy@hhs.gov. Questions about this information may be addressed to Betty Simmonds (betty@ paproviders.org). ■

Geriatric Resource Nurse Training AvailableA workshop series for registered nurses is available at no charge to participants. It is sponsored by the Geriatric Education Center of Pennsylvania Consortium (Pennsylvania State University, University of Pittsburgh, and Temple University) in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Behavioral Health and Aging Co-alition and the Penn State College of Medicine. It is funded by the Health Resources and Ser-vices Administration, US Department of Health and Human Services. The workshops use an inter-professional collaborative team approach to work with older adults living in the commu-nity. Community nurses will receive training in aging and behavioral health issues and develop skills that will enable them to participate in community-based teams of health professionals to prevent, assess, and treat behavioral health and aging issues of older adults and at-risk caregivers. Eight webinars will be presented each Monday from March 4 – April 22. Sixteen Pennsylvania State Nurses Association contact hours will be awarded to participants of all eight sessions. Partial credit is not provided. For more information and to register, access http://olderpennsylvanians.org/events?eventId=614982&EventViewMode=EventDetails. ■

HIT EHR Incentive Continued from page 7

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Free Online Training Available for Gambling CounselorsBy Jessica Williams, IRETA

SBIRT Webinar Series February 27 Introduction to ScreeningBy Jessica Williams, IRETA

In September 2012, the Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions (IRETA) was designated a National Focus Area Addiction Technology Transfer Center in the area of Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT). As a result, IRETA has launched a webinar series to illustrate various aspects of SBIRT, beginning with an in-depth look at screening. On February 27, a free three-hour webinar will instruct participants in the use of valid, brief screening tools and determining recommended level of intervention based on level of risk. SBIRT is relevant to all health care professionals as well as faith leaders, school employees, administrative professionals, and anyone who comes into contact with individuals whose substance use may be risky. Webinar informa-tion and registration is available at http://ireta.org/webinars. ■

Regulation Review ContinuesWork continues on the PCPA drug and alcohol regulation review. The first draft of changes to general regulations was sent to members in December 2012. The general standards should be sent to Secretary Gary Tennis by the end of January. The staffing regulations work group continues to meet and plans are to have a first draft available for member review in early Febru-ary. PCPA extends special thanks to the small group of dedicated, hard work-ing members that have been meeting for many hours and reviewing the regulations line by line! ■

■ D R U G & A L C O H O L A C T I O N

In 2012, Pennsylvania’s gambling revenue was the second-highest in the nation, according to industry consultant Spectrum Gaming Group. Nevada took first place by a long shot ($10.9 billion), but at $3.8 billion with no signs of slowing down, Pennsylvania has become an unlikely hotbed of gaming activity. Casinos were legalized in Pennsylvania by Act 71 in 2004, amended in 2010 to include table games. Data show that in the last four years, gambling venues and profits from them have increased dramatically. There are now 11 venues and one under con-struction, compared to seven in 2008. And 2012’s gambling revenue is nearly three times higher than in 2008.

From 2008 – 2012, there were 468 admis-sions to publicly-funded problem gambling treatment. Of them:

E More than a third of admissions were in Allegheny County (151),

E 204 were self-referrals, followed by re-ferrals from the Department of Health Gambling Addiction Hotline (67) and GA/Gam-Anon (57),

E 345 were individuals with an annual income below $50,000, and

E Referrals increased over time; there was a 255 percent increase in treat-ment admissions between 2008 and 2012.

Act 71 requires Pennsylvania to direct resources into its treatment system for problem gambling, which the state has been steadily constructing and refining. There are 52 providers in Pennsylvania treating problem gambling. One aspect of the treatment system is developing a workforce trained to address compulsive gambling disorders, which often co- occur with substance use and mental health disorders.

To help add trained counselors, Penn-sylvania is incentivizing participation in monthly online training and clinical consultations. Led by Joanna Franklin, calls are held the first Monday of each month and registration is free. The first 24 registrants to pass the National Certified Gambling Counselor exam receive $100 toward the cost of the test. To register for the free consultation, hosted by the Insti-tute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions (IRETA), visit http://ireta.org/gamblingsupervision. ■

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■ I D D F O C U S

O D P U P D A T E S

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has issued the follow-ing updates, available at www.odpconsulting.net.

E Informational Memo #110-12: Incident Investigation Determina-tion. Provides clarification and guidance for making investigation determinations in the incident management system.

E Informational Memo #111-12: Vendor Fiscal/Employer Agent Support Service Worker Qualifications. Provides information on the process for competing provider qualifications for these workers.

E Informational Packet #002-13: Request for Waiver of a Provision of Chapter 51. ODP has developed a form for providers, supports coor-dination organizations (SCOs), and administrative entities to submit waiver requests regarding provisions of Chapter 51 regulations.

E Informational Memo #003-13: Vacancy Factor and Vacancy Excep-tion Process. A Chapter 51.98 regulation allows ODP to consider a request for an exception to the vacancy factor when a provider’s total occupancy for all waiver residential location falls below 97 percent.

E Announcement #004-13: Waiver Renewal Implementation Re-minder, Provider Action Required – Complete Provider Qualifications by April 30. All direct service providers and vendors with a HCSIS expiration date of April 30 must submit qualification applications in HCSIS starting February 1 with support documentation submitted to the AE by March 31. This does not apply to qualifications of SCOs, Vendor Fiscal Services, or providers that render base-funded services only.

E Informational Memo #005-13: Waiver Renewal Implementation. Provides information regarding a replacement page for the latest ISP Manual.

E Announcement #006-13: ODP Cost Report Information for Waiver Transportation Providers. ■

Bulletin Clarifies Private Home ExclusionThe Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has released Bulletin #6400-13-01 and Informational Memo #007-13: Clarifying the Applicability of Chapter 6400 to Private Homes – Statement of Policy. The bulletin states that Chapter 6400 does not apply to private homes of persons providing care to a relative with intellectual disability. The de-partment is clarifying that the private home exclusion includes homes leased or owned by these individuals or their families. These homes are not subject to licensure. However, a residential home owned or leased by a provider is not a private home and is required to be licensed under Chapter 6400. This includes homes owned or leased by the provider and then leased to an individual or their family.

The Bureau of Human Service Licens-ing (BHSL) has provided additional clarification regarding this licensing issue. Providers must indicate in writ-ing any request to remove a commu-nity home from the agency’s license that results from the clarification set forth in the bulletin. Questions may be directed to the ODP Regional Office Waiver Capacity Manager and licensing issues may be directed to the BHSL Provider Hotline at 866-503-3926. ■

The Bureau of Human Services Licensing has announced a change to expedite the licensing process for new community home and family living sites under existing agency licenses. The Department of Public Welfare will permit most agencies licensed under Chapter 6400 (community homes for persons with intellectual disability) and Chapter 6500 (family living homes) to conduct a physical site self-inspection and certifica-tion in lieu of an on site inspection by a licensing representatives from the department. This self-inspection relates to agencies that are already licensed for these services. The Self-Inspection and Declaration Tool must be completed and any violations found must have a plan of correction. Questions may be directed to RA-pwarlheadquarters@pa.gov or the department’s hotline (866-503-3926). ■

Licensing Changes

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Counties and ID Managed CareThe Pennsylvania Association of County Administrators of Mental Health and De-velopmental Services (PACA MH/DS) has adopted a position regarding the “Future of Pennsylvania’s Medicaid Funding for Services to Individuals with Intellectual Disability.” It states that “a county-based behavioral health managed care system is presented as a viable option for delivery of community based-services for indi-viduals with intellectual disability, including under the consolidated and person and family directed services waivers.” The theory is that by integrating managed care systems such as already exist in the behavioral health system, that the state will save money and offer better care for those who are dually diagnosed. A copy of this position statement is available from Policy Specialist Linda Drummond (linda@paproviders.org).

PACA MH/DS has presented a managed care plan for the intellectual disability system to the Department of Public Welfare. PCPA’s Intellectual and Developmen-tal Disabilities Committee will begin a review of managed care systems in other states and a review of PACA’s proposal to develop recommendations and address potential issues. ■

Preliminary Lifesharing Report ReleasedThe Office of Developmental Programs Independent Monitoring for Quality project has released the preliminary Lifesharing Report for 2010/11. This report compiles data from those living in Lifesharing, residential homes, or with relatives. The data indicates:

88 – 94% like where they live,

85 – 93% received services they need to live in the home,

90 – 94% always had someone to assist them when needed,

71 – 88% attend community social events, and

88 – 91% of families were satisfied with the living location for their relative.

Long-Term Care Commission on Workforce IssuesThe American Tax Relief Act of 2012 signed into law on January 2 includes the requirement to establish a Commission on Long-Term Care. The purpose is to establish and fund a system that offers long-term services and supports for persons with disabilities and senior citizens. Section 643 of the Tax Relief Act requires workforce issues in long-term care such as an adequate number of direct care workers, workforce development to provide high-quality services and im-provements to health care programs, and development of agencies to serve as employers and fiscal agents for home care workers. The commission will consist of 15 members that include appointments made by the President, the majority and minority Senate leaders, House speaker, and House minority leader. ■

National Employment InitiativesThe US Department of Labor Office of Disability Em-ployment Policy’s (ODEP) National Employer Techni-cal Assistance Center for Employers on Employment of People with Disabilities and the American’s with Disabili-ties Act National Network have formed an alliance to co-promote resources, events, and services. Project activities include free cus-tomized technical assistance and training to employers, resources through the Work-force Recruitment Program for College Students with Disabilities, materials devel-opment, and dissemination. Information is available at Earn Assistance and Resource Network (www.AskEARN.org), eFedLink, which promotes hiring and advancement of persons with disabilities in the federal government (www.eFedLink.org), and ODEP (www.dol.gov/odep). ODEP has also developed a media campaign with video public service announce-ments titled, Because. This video features persons with disabilities living everyday lives. The free awareness materials including posters are available from www. whatcanyoudocampaign.org. ■

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■ C L A S S I F I E D S

■ O N T H E A U T I S M S P E C T R U M

Autism Benefit for Military FamiliesMore children with autism in military families will soon have access to behavior therapy under a new government program, but not everyone is entirely pleased. Within the nearly 700-page defense bill signed by Presi-dent Obama in January is a provision requiring the Department of Defense to launch a one-year pilot program providing coverage of applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy for those with autism through its TRICARE insurance offering. Currently, advocates say that the military insurer only provides the therapy for dependents of those serving on active duty. The pilot program, however, will expand coverage to all TRICARE beneficiaries with autism for one year. The bill calls for the new program to be rolled out within 90 days. Disability advocates say the coverage expansion is a step in the right direction, but they are dismayed that the new benefits will be short-term. Congress initially voted to make the change permanent, but converted the autism treatment expansion to a pilot program at the last minute. Peter Bell, executive vice president, Autism Speaks, who lobbied for the expand-ed coverage noted that there are some members of the armed forces who have re-enlisted merely to secure continued autism treatment benefits for their children. ■

Autism Guidelines DistributedAutism: recognition, referral, diagnosis and management of adults on the autism spectrum was distributed by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, National Guidelines Clearinghouse (NGC). This guide-line was developed by the National Col-laborating Centre for Mental Health for the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE). All NICE clinical guide-lines are prepared in relation to the National Health Service in England and Wales. NICE has not been involved in the development or adaptation of NICE guidance for use in any other country. More information is avail-able on the NGC web site (http://guideline.gov/content.aspx?f=rss&id=37864&osrc=12). ■

President and CEO, Gateway Rehabilitation Center, Pittsburgh, PAAs a result of the announced retirement of their long-time leader, the Gateway Rehab Board of Directors has retained the services of Vantagen for the recruitment and retention of their next President and CEO.

Gateway Rehab, a private, not-for-profit organization, is a positive force in the prevention, treatment, education, and research of substance abuse and alcoholism. The mission of Gateway Rehab is to help all affected by addictive diseases to become healthy in body, mind, and spirit.

We seek a leader with empathy and compassion for the people served by our mission. Strategic think-ing, innovation, and courage are required to catalyze the delivery of outstanding client outcomes. In an ever-evolving landscape of health care reform, we seek an experienced leader that can navigate the Affordable Care Act and its impact on the operations and treatment delivery systems of Gateway Rehab. As an ethical leader, the President and CEO must have demonstrated ability to lead an accomplished team of professionals accustomed to achieving exceptional results.

Bachelor’s and master’s degrees required. For complete details and how to apply, please visit www.nonprofitalent.com/jobs/job/president-ceo. Applications are due by 5:00 p.m. February 25.

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■ C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Pennington Moves to OCYFMichael Pennington has moved from his long-time position as director of the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) to his new role as director of the Bureau of Juvenile Justice Services within the Office of Children, Youth and Fami-lies (OCYF). Among his primary responsibilities is directing the operation of the seven state-operated Youth Development Centers and Youth Forestry Camps. In his position at PCCD, Pennington was a valued partner with the PCPA Children’s Committee and Adolescent Forensic Committee. In 2011 his work as an advo-cate for diversion services and behavioral health services for the juvenile justice system was recognized by PCPA, who named him the recipient of the Marilyn Mennis Memorial Award. PCPA looks forward to a continued and productive col-laboration with Pennington in his new position. ■

BHRS Redesign Work GroupIn November 2012, PCPA formed a work group to gather information on the impact of “Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS) Redesign” on access and services. The first meeting included representation from PCPA, providers, the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) Children’s Bureau, the Pennsylvania Health Law Project, Disability Rights Network, the Pennsylvania Psychiatric Society, and the Pennsylvania Psychological Association. PCPA’s goal for the work group is to review the impact of BHRS Redesign in com-munities and identification of related issues and collaborative efforts at finding consensus-based solutions. The group reviewed primarily anecdotal “BHRS Rede-sign Impact” reports from providers and families. These included reports on BHRS reductions in access and service and the impact on community system partners such as schools. PCPA introduced discussion about the “elephant in the room,” which was the broad perception that BHRS Redesign was mostly about cost reduc-tions driven by service reductions.

The group identified and discussed several and varied specific service reduction, care management, and cost reduction approaches under consideration or imple-mentation around the state and the level of state and county communications with families, schools, and other system partners about the implementation and impact of BHRS Redesign. Prior to concluding, the work group reiterated its goal of identifying and advancing solutions. Areas identified for future action and solution development include:

1. Continued expansion of school-based behavioral health services (e.g. outpa-tient satellites, partial hospital, school-based mental health teams);

2. Review paperwork requirements at the provider and managed care organiza-tion levels and address the tension between useful clinical documentation and defensive (audit driven) documentation; and

3. Closely monitor the local impact of BHRS Redesign (and other fiscal con-straints) on access and choice, adverse clinical impact, adverse life-domain impact for consumer and family, and consumer satisfaction. ■

Megan’s Law Impacts JuvenilesIn December 2012 new registra-tion requirements for juvenile sex offenders under Megan’s Law went into effect. Youth who have been adjudicated delinquent for rape; in-voluntary deviate sexual intercourse; aggravated indecent assault; or attempt, solicitation, or conspiracy to commit any of these offenses are now, for the first time in Pennsylva-nia, required to register, verify, and update their information with the county’s chief juvenile probation officer as “juvenile offenders.” This impacts juvenile offenders currently placed in residential treatment and other facilities licensed by the De-partment of Public Welfare under 55 Pa. Code Chapter 3800 and in foster care. A juvenile offender under the court’s jurisdiction on December 20, 2012 who is on probation or is otherwise being supervised in the community, including “placement in a foster family home or other resi-dential setting which provides the individual with less than 24-hour-per-day supervision and care,” is mandated by law to provide the chief juvenile probation officer with the information required in Megan’s Law within 30 days. The chief juvenile probation officer is required to collect this initial regis-tration information and forward it to the Pennsylvania State Police for inclusion in the sex offender registry. The juvenile offender registry will not be made public, but will be easily accessible to law enforcement. ■

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Barriers to Evaluation for Early Intervention ServicesIn 2012, the Commonwealth Fund supported pediatric researchers at the Chil-dren’s Hospital of Philadelphia to discover why so many children referred to early intervention services are not evaluated and to determine how to make the referral process more successful. Findings were recently published in Academic Pediatrics. Pediatricians are encouraged to refer parents of infants and toddlers with devel-opmental delays to county and community early intervention programs that can improve outcomes, reduce behavioral problems, and help families care better for their children. Despite the clear benefits of early intervention, up to 90 percent of eligible children never receive these services. The researchers interviewed parents of children who had undergone evaluation and parents of children who had not, as well as early intervention staff. The interviews identified five common barriers:

1. Communication problems between families and pediatricians, including failure to fully explain the referral process;

2. Parents’ belief that they are the experts on their child’s development and will decide for themselves whether evaluation is needed;

3. Parents’ belief that their child’s delays will resolve on their own or with their help;

4. Practical difficulties related to contacting early intervention providers; and

5. Parents’ concerns, as reported by early intervention staff, that evaluators arriving at their home are from child protective services.

The research concluded that effective communication between pediatricians and families is the most important factor in bridging the gap between the number of children identified and the number evaluated. It recommends that pediatricians be trained in shared decision-making techniques that acknowledge parents’ ex-pertise and involve them more actively in care decisions. Pediatricians should also better educate themselves and parents about the referral process. ■

FAQ: Child Protection RecommendationsPCPA is a member of the state’s Protect Our Children Committee (POCC). Its ef-forts have been to improve policies and programs in Pennsylvania designed to prevent, investigate, and respond to child abuse. Following the 2012 events at the Pennsylvania State University, the POCC served on the state’s Task Force on Child Protection. That task force released its report and recommendations in late 2012. It is anticipated that the General Assembly will move forward to implement many of those recommendations. POCC has provided a concise and useful Fre-quently Asked Questions (FAQ) document based on the work of the Task Force on Child Protection. It is available at www.paproviders.org/Pages/Childrens_Archive/FAQ_Child_Protection_010913.pdf. ■

National Focus on Juvenile Diversion A study by the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice indicates most youth in the juvenile justice system also have a substance use disorder, mental disorder, or both. “Almost 30 percent of those youth have problems so severe their ability to function is impaired. Yet very few get the treatment they need. In fact, in some locales, deten-tion centers and jails have become the de facto treatment centers,” according to Adminis-trator Pamela Hyde, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Ser-vices Administration (SAMHSA). SAMHSA is collaborating with the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention at the US Department of Jus-tice in an intensive diversion program called Reclaiming Futures to make sure these youth receive treatment, not incarceration. While Pennsyl-vania is not a participant in the initiative, leaders in the Department of Public Welfare, the Juvenile Court Judges Com-mission, and PCPA have long supported diversion and treat-ment programs for youth in or at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. ■

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C H I L D R E N ’ S C O R N E R

Born Brave Bus Tour Comes to Pennsylvania The National Council has partnered with Lady Gaga’s Born This Way Foundation to promote mental health awareness and resilience among young people. National Council members will provide on site “bravery tips” and mental health resources as part of a 27-city Born Brave Bus Tour hosted by the foundation in conjunction with Lady Gaga’s concert tour. Lady Gaga and her Born Brave Tour will be in:

Philadelphia February 19 – 20 Wells Fargo Center, and State College March 2 Bryce Jordan Center

PCPA members – Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual DisAbilities and Community Services Group – are collaborating with the founda-tion and staffing the Born Brave Bus in Pennsylvania. On the afternoon of each concert “little monsters” (as devoted Gaga fans call themselves) will come to-gether to share stories of bravery and empowerment. Mental health professionals will offer interactive activities and resources to help these young people under-stand that mental health problems are common, treatable, and that seeking help for themselves or their friends is an act of bravery. Professionals staffing the tour events will reinforce the message that young people can play an active role in caring for their own mental health and that of their friends and classmates.

“Now more than ever, our kids need access to support within their communities, including mental health services,” said Cynthia Germanotta, Born This Way Foun-dation president and co-founder and Lady Gaga’s mother. “By connecting youth to these local resources, we hope to plant the seeds that will help them deal with today’s challenges and inspire them to continue exercising their strength and bravery well after the Born Brave Bus leaves town.” ■

OMHSAS STAP Work GroupIn January the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) held a second meeting with Summer Therapeutic Activity Program (STAP) service providers and behavioral health managed care organizations (BH-MCOs). There continues to be a lack of clarity about the distinc-tion between treatment and rehabilitative services, appli-cable medical necessity criteria for STAP. OMHSAS confirmed that the only unit of service approach for 2013 is one-hour time segments, with no consideration of alternative payment arrangements like per diem or case rates. There are growing indications that it will be difficult if not impossible, to demonstrate that activi-ties and staff supervision and interventions related to “lunch” times will be considered as a therapeutic activity and bill-able. One recommendation was that the cost for this time be factored into the rate setting process. OMHSAS plans to have BH-MCOs and counties conduct initial review and approvals of service descriptions prior to submission to OMHSAS for final review. PCPA has received reports from several regions that BH-MCOs have directed all providers to submit new pro-gram descriptions and they will only consider programs that are three-hours in duration. ■

Lady Gaga is pictured here with the Born This Way Foundation tour bus.

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Children’s CommitteeThe January meeting opened with the Children’s Defense Fund video, “A Prayer for the Chil-dren.” Guests included representatives of the Disability Rights Network (DRN) and Psychi-atric Society. Committee chairs provided a report from the Children’s Steering Committee including the scheduling of work group meetings based on need. The agenda and discus-sion focused on the range of clinical, operational, fiscal, and political challenges faced by members. Member-driven discussion and planning was guided by a presentation outlining issues and updates related to:

E Reports from the Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) Summer Therapeutic Activity Program (STAP) planning work group;

E PCPA BHRS Redesign work group and the impact on prescribing, services, authoriza-tion, billing, and the community;

E The autism service Behavior Specialist Consultant (BSC) licensure requirement status and action planning;

E Status of efforts to launch and sustain evidence-based practices; and

E The impact of budget reductions in state funding to counties.

Meeting materials are available on the PCPA web site. PCPA will conduct surveys to gauge the impact of BHRS Redesign and STAP changes at the local level while continuing to meet with OMHSAS on these issues. A model letters for member to edit and use to inform fami-lies and other stakeholders about the impact of DPW policy decisions will be provided. A DRN update on its survey of families impacted by state policies who have filed grievances related to denial of services was offered. More than 200 families have provided informa-tion. The OMHSAS Bureau of Children’s Services provided updates on surveys of the impact of BSC licensing mandates and reported on meetings to find solutions to issues related to BHRS Redesign and STAP policies.

Criminal Justice CommitteeThe Criminal Justice Committee welcomed two representatives of the Department of Cor-rections (DOC), Reentry Program Manager Mary Finck and Referral Supervisor Anthony Kot. Ms. Finck provided an update on Certified Peer Support Specialists, the new co-occurring grant, and the new specialized housing units for veterans and transitional housing. Pre-release issues and the new parole violator centers being developed were discussed. DOC officials also shared the continued efforts to have all offenders leaving the system with a photo ID and the work to get eligible offenders enrolled in Medicaid. Jessica Reichenbach, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, provided an overview of the Center of Excellence work. ■

D&A CommitteeThe Drug and Alcohol Committee meeting included a report from Terry Matulevich and Dan Miller, Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, focused primarily on the STAR data system. Michele Denk, Pennsylvania Association of County Drug and Alcohol Administra-tors, provided updates on funding and the block grant initiative. Rob Primrose, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, also discussed the block grant program. He also reported on HealthChoices and expedited enrollment. Holly Hagel provided an update from the Institute for Research, Education and Training in Addictions. The members dis-cussed the regulation review underway, HealthChoices concerns, and CPT codes. ■

■ C O M M I T T E E R E P O R T S

Each of us will one day be judged by our standard of life – not by our standard of living; by our measure of giving – not by our measure of wealth; by our simple goodness – not by our seeming greatness.

– William Arthur Ward

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Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities CommitteeOffice of Developmental Programs (ODP) Acting Deputy Secretary Fred Lokuta presented his vision for the future of his office. A “Future for ODP” plan is under development with a focus on people, families, social capital and ac-ceptance, meaningful employment, funding options and efficient and effective services. PCPA members may share their suggestions on these issues with Linda Drummond (linda@paproviders.org). The committee had discussion on the Human Services Development Fund block grants led by Carbon/Monroe/Pike Administrator Sheila Theodora. This county joinder did not apply for the initial county pilots. The concerns were the difficulty in developing the structure with joinder counties and the 10 percent reduction in funding. To date, none of the 20 block grant proposals has been authorized by the Department of Public Welfare.

Bureau of Human Services Licensing (BHSL) Director Ron Melusky presented on procedures for self-inspection of new community or family living homes under an existing license (see related article in this issue). Melusky plans to elimi-nate the dual licensing by ODP and Aging in 2013 because it creates issues for providers and over-regulates services. The Mental Health Committee joined the meeting for BHSL’s discussion on transferring OMHSAS licensing duties for residential mental health settings (community residential rehabilitation, long-term structured residence, and residential treatment facilities) to this bureau by March 15. ■

Mental Health Committee The Mental Health Committee discussed the potential impact that recent tragedies may have on the mental health system. Jerry Goessel, Office of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (OMHSAS) discussed Current Procedural Terminology code changes related to psychiatry and psychotherapy (see related article in this issue.) Director Ron Melusky, Bureau of Human Services Licensing, discussed the transfer of mental health residential program licensing to Human Services Licensing by March 15. Different staff will conduct licensing visits and will focus on environmental safety, staff training, docu-mentation, and other non-programmatic issues. Regulatory Compliance Guides will be used and will be updated quarterly.

Bill Boyer and Beth Ricker, OMHSAS, discussed the Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services final regulatory package. OMHSAS anticipates publication in May with a 90-day implementation period before they become effective. For the first 45 days OMHSAS will provide training and technical assistance through regional webinars. Draft survey tools, functional assessment forms, daily entry forms, and a manual will be developed. Ray Klabe reported that OMHSAS is monitor-ing funding for the Medical Assistance Transportation Program in the upcoming budget announcement. Community Care was awarded the 23-county behavioral health HealthChoices contract for north-central Pennsylvania. A policy director for OMHSAS may be announced within the next few weeks. ■

Supports Coordination Organizations SubcommitteeOffice of Developmental Programs (ODP) staff Jen Fraker and Jeanine Zlockie provided discussion on a vari-ety of topics and addressed questions. There is confusion with the new waiver and regulation changes regarding what is and isn’t billable. Many supports co-ordinators have been delegated duties by the Administrative Entities (AE) over the years and now need to know which of these are billable or need to be returned to the AE for completion.

ODP is working to provide clarification on Medicaid eligibility applications, re-applications, and who is respon-sible; bi-annual Individual Service Plan (ISP) review requirements; potential revision to Chapter 6400 regulations and the role for the residential pro-gram specialist; and 30-day vacancy policies, hospitalizations, and dis-charge planning. Members recommend-ed ODP provide trainings in a number of areas. Minutes from the meeting are available in Members Only on the PCPA web site, www.paproviders.org. ■

February 25 – 26. Leading and Coaching a Peer Workforce (Supervisory Training). The Sears Room. Chambersburg, PA. Registration is $395 and more information is available from the Recovery Opportunity Center at 602-636-4514 or vicki.rainey@recoveryopportunity.com. ■

■ C O N F E R E N C E S /T R A I N I N G S

C O M M I T T E E R E P O R T S

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Tuesday, March 19 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. 12:00 – 3:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Mental Health Committee Legislative Committee Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Committee Executive Committee Drug and Alcohol Committee Children’s Committee SCO Subcommittee Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Wednesday, March 20 8:00 – 10:00 a.m. 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Membership Committee Board Meeting Outpatient Task Force Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey

Tuesday, March 26 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. 1:00 – 4:00 p.m.

Conference Committee Conference Call Criminal Justice Committee PCPA

Pennsylvania CommunityProviders Association2101 N Front StBldg 3, Ste 200Harrisburg, PA 17110

■ C A L E N D A R

Tuesday, February 5 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Southwest Region Meeting Sheraton Station Square, Pittsburgh

Wednesday, February 6 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Central Region Meeting Carlisle Country Club, Carlisle

Thursday, February 7 1:00 – 3:30 p.m.

1:00 – 5:00 p.m.

Health Care Opportunities Task Force PCPA

Youth Mental Health First Aid Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania, Johnstown

Friday, February 8 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Youth Mental Health First Aid Epilepsy Foundation Western/Central Pennsylvania, Johnstown

Thursday, February 14 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Northeast Region Meeting Genetti Hotel and Conference Center, Wilkes-Barre

Tuesday, February 19 8:30 – 11:00 a.m. Southeast Region Meeting Hampton Inn Center City, Philadelphia

Wednesday, February 20 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Executive Committee PCPA

Thursday, February 21 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Conference Committee PCPA

Tuesday, February 26 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Children’s Steering Committee PCPA

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PAID Harrisburg, PAPermit No. 24