1020 G.3.b. (back-up plan for personal assistance)

Recommendation

Remove “and family/caregiver” from this item.

Rationale

The family and/or caregivers may be the ones serving as the backup.

1020 G.3.c. (personal assistance)

Recommendation

Allow personal assistance services to be provided to people who live in congregate residential settings and to people who need skill development.

Rationale

Just as companion services can be provided to someone who typically lives in a congregate setting, personal assistance services may be needed while the individual is away from the congregate residential setting.

If the individual needs significant assistance with activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living, they may need routine hands-on support when they are temporarily away from the congregate residential setting.

1020 J. (residential services)

Recommendation

Add language that describes the differences between congregate and in-home residential services.

1020 J. (room and board)

Recommendation

Add language explaining how room and board arrangements would include residential supports and why they would do so.

Rationale

The separation of housing from services is important to many individuals and their families who do not want to be beholden to the provider of their housing if they elect to change service providers or vice versa. It is also the policy direction that the Commonwealth has taken.

1020 J.2.b. (personal assistance)

Recommendation

Allow individuals to receive personal assistance services when they are away from the congregate facility.