HCS Provider Applicant- Provider Applicant Training (PAT) and Test

Okay, for those of you who are going through the HCS or TxHmL provider applicant process and had your application approved, a lot of people are contacting me inquiring about when the orientation (PAT) and testing are going to happen as some of you have been waiting a very long time.

Just FYI- I am unclear about testing. It may be online now, but I have also heard it may not be and it is still on hold due to COVID-19.

What I do know is that the orientation or what is now called the Provider Applicant Training, has been available online since at least April or May of this year, through the HHSC e-learning portal.

If you received your application approval letter with a link to the online portal PAT training when they just started and you have completed your Provider Applicant Training (PAT) and printed the certificates, and still have not received an invitation to take the test yet, please go back and login to the e-learning orientation in the portal. If you log in and it no longer says 100% complete, and now says something like 80% complete, you will need to go back into the complete it.

They apparently have added some new steps at the end of the Provider Applicant Training (PAT), that was not there when you completed your initial orientation and printed your certificates. There is an evaluation for step 3 and I believe there is a step 4. I think step 4 is some kind of attestation that you are the individual that will be taking the HCS or TxHmL applicant test. In other words the Program Manager.

I am unclear as to why there was no notification of the changes in the e-learning process and that you would have to go back and complete that before HHSC can approve you at 100%, but that could be why you have not heard back about testing for quite some time.

In addition, there are 2 persons listed as test approvers for the portal, I believe in just the past few days, according to some of you who have done the online orientation process.  My guess is this probably means that HHSC is very close to getting back to Provider Applicant Testing, but that it will be online. I am hopeful that many of you out there can finally take your test and get your certification to become a provider.  I know some applicants have been in limbo for quite some time.  Last information we received indicated the test will be online and will be offered sometime between Dec. 2020 and Jan. 2021.  The PAT applicant will have to schedule a time to go to a testing “site” and to take the test online with a “proctor” in the room to monitor the test being taken “online”.

Remember to get prepared and please study. You may have been waiting a long time to test, but I know that applicants sometimes don’t study as much as they need to, to take the test.  If you have come this far, you do not want to fail the test and have to start all over again!  Please contact us if you need help in preparing for the test.  We do provide services such as study prep sessions, practice tests, etc..

November 12 Recording of Certification Principles:

Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the November 12, 2020, Certification Principles: Staff Member and Service Provider Requirements webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

November 19 Recording of Certification Principles:

Restraints and Prohibitions Webinar for HCS and TxHmL Providers Available

A recording of the November 19, 2020, Certification Principles: Restraints and Prohibitions webinar for HCS and TxHmL providers is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here.

November 22nd, 2020

Updated Training Link Available for the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Test

A BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card training video that provides detailed step-by-step guide to the test process is on the Abbott website. The training video is for people without medical training, who will conduct COVID-19 testing using the BinaxNOW Ag card. As part of the request for free BinaxNOW test kits, providers will confirm that staff performing the COVID-19 tests have completed the BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card training.

The BinaxNOW COVID-19 Ag Card (PDF) is a rapid point-of-care antigen test which detects the presence of antigens in persons infected with the virus that causes COVID-19. This test is approved for use under an Emergency Use Authorization by the Food and Drug Administration.

View the free online training here

HHSC Publishes Revised Attestation for Free Testing Kits

HHSC has published a revised attestation form for free BinaxNOW point-of-care antigen COVID-19 test kits for NF, ALF, ICF, HCS and HCSSA providers. The form was revised to correct the BinaxNOW training link required for staff who do not have medical training and will be administering the COVID-19 tests using the BinaxNOW Ag card.

HHSC Publishes Flu Vaccine Guidance During COVID-19 (PL 20-50)

HHSC publishes Provider Letter 20-50 Influenza Vaccine Guidance During COVID-19. The letter provides a brief overview of the Adult Influenza Vaccine Initiative and guidance on the administration of the influenza vaccine to residents and staff with and without COVID-19.

The letter also informs facilities when an individual should receive the influenza vaccine, even if the facility is not the vaccine administrator.

Guest presenter:

Hillary Gaytan  (Business Development Representative)

From:  HRS

Improve The Quality of Life

• Balancing personal choice with personal responsibility by establishing and maintaining things that are important to the person with things that are important for the person
• Being integrated in one’s community so that the person is known and respected for her or his contributions.
• Being respectfully communicated with as a person, using language consistent with being a typical adult as opposed to using clinical or system language
• Receiving support that is consistent so that new staff and others know and respect the person’s values and choices, as well as how others can help the person.
• Being matches with staff, housemates, or others that the person making life more enjoyable.

HHSC Publishes Revised Reporting Guidance for Long-Term Care Providers

(PL 20-37)

HHSC has published a revised version of Provider Letter 20-37, Reporting Guidance for Long-Term Care Providers (PDF). The revision includes information for ALF and ICF providers offering point-of-care testing for COVID-19 and clarifies reporting requirements for NF providers.

November 22nd, 2020

November 30 ICF Provider COVID-19 Webinar with HHSC LTC Regulation

LTCR and DSHS provide the latest information on the COVID-19 pandemic and take live questions from participants in this ICF provider webinar. Provider attendance is critical to staying current with COVID-19 requirements and guidance.

ICF/IID providers are strongly encouraged to attend this and all biweekly COVID-19 webinars with HHSC Long-term Care Regulation and the Department of State Health Services.

Those using Internet Explorer may have difficulties registering for the webinar. Please try another browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

ICF Provider Webinar

November 30, 2020

11 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Register for the COVID-19 webinar.

Recording of November 16 ICF COVID-19 Q&A Provider Webinar Available

A recording of the November 16, 2020 ICF/IID COVID-19 Q&A with HHSC LTC Regulation and DSHS is available for those who could not attend.

View the COVID-19 Q&A recording.

View the COVID-19 Q&A (PDF).

10/16/20

Important Information!

LTCR FORM 2195: Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation and Letter PL 20-43 (for ICF Only)

Note: to receive an approved general visitation designation, a small ICF/IID that cannot provide separate areas, units, wings, halls, or buildings for individuals who are COVID-19 positive, COVID-19 negative or unknown COVID-19 status, based on the status of the entire facility, must:

• have no facility-acquired COVID-19 cases in individuals for at least 14 consecutive days; and
• have no COVID-19 cases in staff.

An ICF/IID must provide instructional signage throughout the facility and proper visitor education regarding

• signs and symptoms of COVID-19;

• infection control precautions; and
• other applicable facility practices (e.g., the use of facemasks or other appropriate PPE, specified entries and exits, routes to designated visitation areas, and hand hygiene).

An ICF/IID that does not meet the criteria for a visitation designation must permit closed window visits and end-of-life visits for individuals regardless of their COVID-19 status, as well as essential caregiver visits for individuals with COVID-19 negative or unknown COVID-19 status.

Such an ICF/IID must also develop and implement a plan to meet the visitation criteria and submit the plan to the regional director in the Long-term Care Regulation (LTCR) region where the ICF/IID is located within five days of submitting the new 2195 Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation Form,

or

within five days of receiving notification from HHSC that the ICF/IID was not approved for general visitation designation. 

LTCR Form 2195

Each ICF/IID must submit LTCR Form 2195 to the Regional Director in the LTCR region where the facility is located and must provide information about whether the ICF/IID meets or does not meet the criteria for expanded general visitation.

Each ICF/IID must submit a completed form 2195 to the Regional Director no later than October 31, 2020.

An ICF/IID that does not meet the visitation designation criteria must attest that it:

• is permitting closed window visits, end of life visits, and essential caregiver visits;
• will develop and implement a plan to meet the visitation designation criteria as defined in 26 TAC §551.47; and
• has included the plan with the form or will submit the plan within five business days of submitting the form.

To seek a designation for general visitation, an ICF/IID must complete LTCR Form 2195, Expansion of Reopening Visitation Status Attestation, to notify LTCR that the ICF/IID seeks a designation as a visitation facility.

The form must be emailed to the LTCR regional director in the LTCR region where the facility is located. Any applicable pictures and facility maps must also be included with LTCR Form 2195.

The LTCR regional director or designee will review the form within three working days of submission and notify the ICF/IID whether it has received been approved for a visitation designation.

An ICF/IID with previous approval for visitation does not have to submit LTCR Form 2195 or other documentation unless the previous visitation approval has been withdrawn, rescinded, or canceled, or was for only indoor or outdoor visitation instead of both indoor and outdoor visitation.

If approved, the ICF/IID must allow outdoor visits, indoor plexiglass visits, open window visits, and vehicle parades in accordance with the applicable emergency rule. HHSC LTCR can conduct an on-site visit to confirm an ICF/IID’s compliance with the requirements. If HHSC determines that the ICF/IID does not meet the requirements for the designation as a visitation facility, the ICF/IID must immediately stop all visitation except a closed window visit, end-of-life visit, and visits by persons providing critical assistance, including designated essential caregivers.

If, at any time after a visitation designation is approved by HHSC, the ICF/IID experiences an outbreak of COVID-19, the ICF/IID must notify the Regional Director in the LTCR Region where it is located that the ICF/IID no longer meets visitation criteria, and the ICF/IID must immediately stop all visitation, except a closed window visit, end-of-life visit, or visits by persons providing critical assistance, including essential caregivers.

The ICF/IID can submit a new request for designation when it meets all visitation criteria.

Under Section 37.10 of the Texas Penal Code, a person commits a criminal offense if he or she makes a false entry in a governmental record; makes, presents, or uses any record or document with knowledge of its falsity and intent that it be taken as a genuine governmental record; or makes, presents, or uses a governmental record with knowledge of its falsity. In addition, making a false statement on the attestation form can result in the imposition of an administrative penalty as described in Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 252, section 252.065(a)

Contact Information for Submitting LTCR Form 2195 to the LTCR Regional Director: https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/find-us/long-term-care-regulatory-regional-contact-numbers

If you have any questions about this letter, please contact the Policy, Rules and Training Section by email at PolicyRulesTraining@hhsc.state.tx.us or call (512) 438-3161.

10/05/20

Deadline for Decision To Return to Facility/Payment to Hold Bed/Discharge Option  

Information Letter No. 20-43 ICF/IID Services During COVID-19

10/03/20

Quick TIPS on New Changes for Expansion of Facility Visitation Rules & Other Policies Concerning COVID-19

Essential Caregiver Visits and Salon Services Visitor   (Visitor types above and beyond normal designated visiting facility type)

Essential Caregivers are allowed even if the facility does not have designated visitation.  They must be at least 18 years of age.  Can be family, friend, guardian.

• 1.They must wear a facemask. 2. They must have evidence of negative COVID-19 test in the past 14 days and must be screened by facility staff prior to the visit.  (Pay attention to the new additional symptoms and discontinuation of asking about international travel). 3. There is a 2- hr limit unless the facility allows a longer period of time. 4.They can have physical contact with their individual (and only their individual)  5.They must be limited to access to their person.  6.An assigned person must escort them to and from the location they are going to meet with the individual- room, outside…  7. The facility must approve the face mask they are going to wear or provide an appropriate mask.  8.If they do not have an appropriate face mask or the facility can’t provide one, they will need to reschedule the visit. 9. The facility must create an identifying badge for the essential caregiver or any salon service visitors. 10. The facility must have attestation stating the essential caregiver has visited and when they left (include time arrived, when they left, who they visited).  11. Essential caregivers must be trained on PPE and how to wear PPE, handwashing, and other infection control practices and there must be proof of this training that the facility maintains.   12..The individual must be COVID-19 negative to have an Essential caregiver visit or Salon Service Visitor.
• ***(If client status is unknown, the essential visitor would have to wear a face mask (not N-95, save that for your staff who need to work with COVID-19 + individuals), gown, gloves, goggles or face shield, so the facility might need to provide these other items)

Phase I Visitation Rules, no longer in effect!

Expanded Visitation Rules now in effect:  The facility must apply with form 2194  for the Designated Visitation Facility, do not require all these same requirements an essential visitor (or Salon Service Visitors)- Designated visits include: open window visits, closed window visits, parade visits (open window or closed) outside visits, (and in plexiglass separate areas).   Must use physical distance, visitor screening, individual will wear face mask or face covering if tolerated and the same for the visitor -they must wear a face mask or face covering.  Provider Letter 20-38 has the link with form 2194 at the end of it.  We encourage you to email the form.  Most staff at HHSC are not in the office  Visitation Designation department has 3 days to approve or deny the 2194 form request.  Only the administrator or director can fill out form 2194!!

Previous Level 1 Attestation Approval: If you previously submitted the 2192 and received approval, you do not need to request a new one with form 2194, if your status is the same.  If you want to change the visitation type, then you will need a new form. ( i.e. you did not want plexiglass partition previously and now you do.)

Small facilities must request visitation designation for the whole facility (unless you have a way to separate all cohort areas completely.) Do not fill out section #3.  That is only for NF’s. 

The provider must develop and must enforce policies and procedures including testing strategies for Essential Visitors, in addition to the testing that must occur at least 14 days prior to 1st visit and all other polices related, such as essential visitor requirements discussed above.  Remember your testing strategies  are required  to provide expectations for the essential visitor for how often they will be required to test and when, for any visits they are making, after the initial “essential caregiver visit”.

For vehicle parades, the individual needs to remain 10 ft or more from the vehicle for safety.

Plexiglass booths on the inside must be approved by a life safety person for your region.  Send in pictures.  Does have to be a plexiglass barrier, does not have to be 2 and 3 sided.

**Closed window and End of Life visits are the only visits an individual may have if they are COVID-19 + (positive)

Remember staff should be assigned to an appropriate cohort (COVID-19 +, COVID-19 Negative or Unknown) then they should stay with that Cohort.  In addition, there should be a policy at the facility for limiting the sharing of staff.  If you need help with your policy concerning “COHORTS” and ” Mitigation of COVID-19 by Limiting Sharing of Staff”, please contact us.  I do have some policies you can purchase if needed.  Please contact me at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com

FAQ’s (June 2020)

Survey Operations Resume as of June 15th, 2020

Providers Must Log Residents’ Leave

All community-based ICF/IID program providers must submit an absence request in the TMHP ICF/IID Online Portal for a resident away from the facility for one or more full days. See the TMHP ICF/IID Online Portal User Guide (PDF) starting on page 52 for more information. The program provider must submit a return request within three days after a resident returns to the facility. See page 58 of the Online Portal User Guide for an explanation.

Please ensure that information entered in the portal for absences is current. HHSC uses the information to determine how many residents are absent from their facilities and the length of those absences.

Provider Joint Training Opportunities

Check out Joint Provider Trainings link from HHSC, for more info:
https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/training/jointtraining.cfm#course_112

Survey Process for ICF Has Changed: Please Be Aware

You may check your SOMA (Surveyor’s Operational Manual for ICF in Appendix J) for these changes.

https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/downloads/som107ap_j_intermcare.pdf 

http://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Transmittals/2018Downloads/R178SOMA.pdf

Appendix Q of SOMA (Immediate Jeopardy) Changes

http://www.tmhp.com/News_Items/2019/04-Apr/CMS%20Releases%20Revision%20to%20Appendix%20Q%20Immediate%20Jeopardy%20Guidelines.pdf

CMS clarifications letter

https://www.cms.gov/Medicare/Provider-Enrollment-and-Certification/SurveyCertificationGenInfo/Downloads/QSO19-09-ALL.pdf

SOMA appendix Q Section  Immediate Jeopardy 

https://www.cms.gov/Regulations-and-Guidance/Guidance/Manuals/downloads/som107ap_q_immedjeopardy.pdf

November 22, 2020

COVID-19 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers for the Holidays (PL 20-53)

HHSC publishes Provider Letter 20-53 Guidance for Activities, Dining, and Volunteers (PDF). The letter outlines provider responsibilities for resident activities, including communal dining and holiday-related activities.

The letter also gives specific stipulations on the use of volunteers and guidance on the protocol for residents who leave a facility.

This guidance can be used as a general reference through the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic.

HHSC Issues Guidance to HCS/TxHmL Providers on Covid-19!!!!

HHSC Long-term Care Regulation has updated the COVID-19 Response Plan for HCS residential providers (PDF). The document provides guidance on response actions in the event of a COVID-19 exposure.

Provider Letter 20-12, HHSC Guidance to HCBS and TxHmL Program Providers on Covid-19, is now available. HHSC encourages program providers to review this guidance. Remember, no non-essential visitors, see definition in the letter and providers must refrain from sending individuals to Day Habilitation and Community Events!  See link below.

https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hhs/communications-events/news/2020/03/hhsc-issues-guidance-hcs-txhml-providers-covid-19

July 28th, 2020      COVID-19 Update For Group Homes- HCS/ICF

Reminder to LTC Facilities about Death Reporting Requirements

July 22, 2020

The following are HHSC’s requirements for care facilities to report resident/individuals’deaths to HHSC, including deaths from COVID-19.

• Intermediate care facilities must report all deaths to Complaint and Incident Intake within one hour. See:
  • PL 17-02 (licensed facilities)
  • PL 17-03 (non-licensed facilities).
• Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Program Providers must report all deaths of people receiving HCS or TxHmL services to HHSC by the end of the next business day following the death or the program provider’s learning of the death. See IL 12-28.

***Note: If the death may have been from abuse, neglect or exploitation, more reporting requirements may exist.

COVID-19 HCS Interest List Reduction and Promoting Independence Slot Releases 

Information letter (IL) 2020-27 was released to provide updated information on Home and Community-based Services and Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities. It replaces IL 20-15, COVID-19 HCS Interest List Reduction Slots, previously issued on April 9 and revised on April 23, 2020.

HHSC is resuming the release of HCS Interest List Reduction Slots starting June 1, 2020. HHSC is continuing releases of HCS Promoting Independence Slots. LIDDAs will request the following HCS Promoting Independence Slots:

• Crisis diversion
• Nursing facility diversion
• Young adults aging out of foster care
• Nursing facility transition
• Nursing facility transition for children
• SSLC transition

The weekly webinars for Medicaid CHIP COVID-19 Information have been canceled and instead, HHSC will be providing a post to a  pre-recorded session online for viewing at your convenience to reduce the potential for technical difficulties. These information sessions will continue to share information about the actions taken to implement various Medicaid/CHIP flexibilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. HHSC will continue to work on additional flexibilities across the programs and will update stakeholders each week on new implementations and issued guidance. Links to each week’s information session will be posted on the HHS COVID-19 Medicaid & CHIP webpage (https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/medicaid-chip-services-information-providers) by 1:00 p.m. CT on April 16, and each Thursday going forward.

LTC Providers Required to Report COVID-19 to HHSC

Effective immediately, a provider must report every confirmed case (only confirmed cases) of COVID-19 in staff and individuals receiving services from the provider as a self-reported incident. A presumptive or confirmed case is considered a critical incident.

Providers (other than HCS and TxHmL providers) must notify HHSC through TULIP or by calling Complaint and Incident Intake (CII) at         1-800-458-9858.

HCS and TxHmL providers must notify HHSC at waiversurvey.certification@hhsc.state.tx.us

FAQ’s For Covid-19

04/02/20

From Stakeholder’s Meetings March 16th-31st  (Draft)

Contact Information For Other Questions:

• 512-438.5359
  schmidt@hhsc.tx.us.state
• 
  Policy Specialist for HCS/TxHmL
• hcspolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us

New Guidance for LTCR Providers on Coronavirus

LTCR urges all providers to review the Centers for Disease Control’s new guidance on strategies to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in long-term care facilities. To ensure you have the most current information on COVID-19, visit the CDC and DSHS websites. For questions or guidance, call one of the DSHS hotlines:

• 888-963-7111
• 877-570-9779

All providers must continue to follow all laws, regulations, guidance and their own internal policies and procedures related to infection control.

From The CDC website:

Pre-Webinar Survey

For those Nurses registered or planning to register for our Dec 11th, 2020 follow-up session:                                                                                      “Round Table Discussion For Nursing Concerns In IDD Programs” (HCS/TxHmL/ICF)

We did not get to at least 4 of our questions primarily on COVID during the 1st Round Table Discussion on 11/5/20.  We still have some questions on RN Delegations that we need feedback on for future sessions and COVID-19.  We felt they were very important and did not want to wait until the Feb. quarterly session.  Thanks.

Please print out this page and document your answers and responses to help us to develop topics of discussion during our 1st session as well as future round table sessions.

You will need to scan your completed survey and email them as soon as possible, but by no later than 12/08/20, to info@twogetherconsulting.com or you may also submit them when you complete your registration prior to 11/1/20 to Meghan Jones.  Her email is:  meghanjones.tx@gmail.com if you prefer.  You do not have to put your name on the survey!   You can also fax them to 512-291-9075

Survey:

Short Nurse input: Please let us know what you are hoping this forum achieves for you specifically;
(in a few short words)

Survey Questions:  

Points to Ponder
“The National Developmental Disabilities Nurses Association categorizes the responsibilities of IDD nurses as fitting into eleven categories”: Our present focus today is to develop input from the nurses as it relates to delegation and assignment:
“The responsibilities of delegation and authority contribute to the ambiguous role of the IDD nurse. Delegation is the process by which responsibility and authority for performing a task are transferred to another individual. In the delegation process, the delegator remains accountable for the task that has been delegated. However, in many settings, the IDD nurse does not have supervisory authority over the unlicensed direct support staff who provide much of the hands-on day to day care of people
with IDD.”

1. Does your employer possess a basic understanding of RN delegation responsibility and practice guidelines, and acknowledge your role in the delegation decision-making process?
a. Yes, my employer is supportive & knowledgeable in the basic delegation decision process
b. I am assigned delegations and there is not a cohesive framework or systematic process
c. I believe that the Program Manager, Case Manager, and UAP are willing to learn from the RN and improve basic
knowledge as well as move towards an educational and systematic approach to safe RN Delegation processes.

ANA Quote
“The American Nurses Association describes unlicensed support staff as individuals trained to function in an assistive role to the registered nurse. Without supervisory authority, IDD nurses have little opportunity to intervene when necessary to ensure safe and appropriate healthcare. This inability to practice to the full extent of licensure can lead to frustration for the IDD nurse”.

2. Do you have supervisory authority and do you understand the scope of your delegation authority: (i.e. input on related policies, recommendations for UAP’s, concerns with repetitive medication errors, or lack of correct implementation by UAP related to delegated tasks performed in accordance with protocols).
a. Yes
b. No

Describe your input on a solution (if you are an RN):

c. N/A  (Not an RN)

3. TRUE OR FALSE (circle one)
I find that the rules are fragmented and regulations may be misunderstood and standardized nursing practice is difficult to achieve.

4. TRUE or FALSE (circle one)
Covid 19 Processes: we have processes in place. We are following CDC guidelines, and I am clear on the established Policies and Protocols that are mandated.

If you answered “false” to this question briefly describe your needs:  (i.e. -education, sample policies, etc…)

COVID-19 – “Food For Thought”:  There are a lot of considerations and concerns in the workplace for Providers of IDD services, in particular nurses as well as staff. Has protocol and training been developed, implemented and how are we monitoring this?  How can we do this effectively?  Other questions like: Is this protocol actually occurring?  Is it being implemented correctly by nurses and staff?  In addition, are we ensuring we are following the most ethical standards and considering the feelings, mental state and concerns of our individuals?  Are we taking into proper consideration the safety of our own family members in our daily protocol, for when we come and go from the facility?  Are we trying to mitigate COVID-19 in every way possible?  Is “burn out” happening with ourselves or our staff and what can we do to prevent it?

5.  Do you feel isolated as a nurse, during the pandemic at your work?

a. Yes    b. No

If you answered “yes”, please comment:  (i.e. In what way do you feel isolated in the workplace?)

Comment:

6.  Do you feel “burn out” yourself or among your fellow nursing staff?

a. Yes    b. No

If you answered “yes”, what do you think we might be able to do about it?  (Or ways facility might be able to help manage it?)

Comment:  

7: What obligation do you think you have to yourself and/or your family (while in the workplace during the pandemic)?

Comment:

Joint Training From HHSC For Providers (Online with CEU’s/CNE’s)

For registration for any of these dates and more information, please go to:   https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/training/jointtraining.cfm

December 2020

Emergency Preparedness in Long-Term Care Facilities (course description)

Tuesday, December 1, 2020

1:30 PM – 4:00 PM

Webinar
(500 MAX)

HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Required to Select an EVV Vendor

11/18/2020

HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Required to Select an EVV Vendor Effective Jan. 1, HHSC will require HCS and TxHmL program providers to use EVV for the following services: Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation In-Home Respite In-Home Day Habilitation (Own Home or Family Home only) HCS and TxHmL program providers are required to select an EVV vendor and complete EVV training to meet the Jan.1 deadlines. The requirement to select an EVV vendor and complete training applies to all contracted HCS and TxHmL program providers. Beginning Jan. 1, 2020, service claims for CFC PAS/HAB will be denied by the claims adjudication system and not paid by HHSC if the program provider has not onboarded with an EVV vendor. Read IL 20-07 (PDF) for more information about selecting an EVV vendor and completing training to be EVV-compliant by the Jan. 1 deadline.

Deadline Approaching Soon!!

Remember everyone:  Effective Dec. 1, HHSC will require HCS and TxHmL program providers to use EVV for the following services:

• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation (CFC PAS/HAB)
• In-Home Respite
• In-Home Day Habilitation (Own Home or Family Home only)

HCS and TxHmL program providers are required to select an EVV vendor and complete EVV training to meet the Dec.1 deadlines. The requirement to select an EVV vendor and complete training applies to all contracted HCS and TxHmL program providers.

Beginning Dec. 1, 2020, service claims for CFC PAS/HAB will be denied by the claims adjudication system and not paid by HHSC if the program provider has not onboarded with an EVV vendor.

Click here to read IL 20-07 (PDF) for more information about selecting an EVV vendor and completing training to be EVV-compliant by the Dec. 1 deadline.

Contact EVV if you have questions about EVV requirements.

Oct. 11th, 2020

EVV Revised Policies Effective Oct. 1

HHSC has revised the following electronic visit verification policies, effective Oct. 1. The information is for program providers and financial management services agencies. It is on the Policy section of the HHS EVV webpage.

Claims Matching Policy (PDF)

The policy:

• Includes additional EVV claims match result codes
• Identifies exceptions to the claims matching process

Claims Submission Policy (PDF)

• The policy includes detailed information about the requirement to submit claims for EVV-required services to the appropriate HHSC claims management system.
• The EVV Billing Policy has been incorporated into the policy.

Email HHSC EVV with your questions.

Oct. 11th, 2020

Updated EVV Service Bill Codes Table Effective Oct. 1

The EVV Service Bill Codes Table is updated effective Oct. 1. The table is on the HHS EVV webpage in the Service Bill Codes Table section. See:

• Below for the major updates
• The Revision History in the table for a complete list of the changes

Program providers and FMSAs can refer to the table for the list of EVV-relevant services and bill code information to avoid EVV visit transaction rejections and EVV claim mismatches.

Units Matching

The updated table shows that during the EVV claims matching process for dates of service on and after Oct. 1, billable units on the EVV visit transaction will be matched to billed units on the claim for:

• EVV-relevant services delivered through the service responsibility option in Managed Care and fee-for-service Long-Term Care programs.
• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation in the Community Living Assistance and Support Services program (Service Group 2, Service Code 10CFC T2026).

Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living Programs

• The table clarifies the EVV Requirements for In-Home Day Habilitation in the HCS Program when In-Home Day Habilitation and In-Home Respite services are provided in a member’s own home or family home setting.
• The “Claims Place of Service” column in the “CARE LTC FFS” tab only includes place of service code 12 (Home Location) because EVV is only required to capture services that need an in-home visit.

Email HHSC EVV for questions.

HHSC is issuing this guidance from CMS to Home and Community-based Services program providers. It clarifies electronic visit verification requirements for in-home day habilitation.

All service events occurring on or after Dec. 1, 2020, for an EVV-required service, must be captured in the EVV system and accepted into the EVV Aggregator.

EVV is not required for In-Home Day Habilitation provided to someone in a:

• Three or four-person home
• Host home
• Companion care residential setting

EVV is only required for the following services:

• Community First Choice Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation
• In-Home Day Habilitation in own home or family home settings
• In-Home Respite in own home or family home settings

See IL 20-07 Electronic Visit Verification in the HCS and TxHmL Program (PDF) for information about EVV requirements.

Additional Guidance on Day Habilitation Services

Program providers billing claims for In-Home Day Habilitation services requiring EVV will continue to use the current claims procedure code, T2020. The EVV Service Bill Codes Table lists this code on the HHS EVV website.

HHSC is developing separate bill codes for Out-of-Home Day Habilitation and will provide guidance before implementing the new codes.

Email hcspolicy@hhsc.state.tx.us with questions.

No EVV For In-Home DH: 3 & 4-bed Homes or Host Homes

August 20th, 2020

HHSC just informed the three IDD associations that it received clarification from CMS that EVV will not be required for in-home day habilitation delivered in a three- or four-bed home or host home. HHSC will send notice regarding this to all affected stakeholders.   This does however mean that In-Home DH provided in an individual’s “Own Family Home” will still require staff to utilize EVV.

CURES Act EVV Training is Underway for HCS/TxHmL Providers

Program providers and FMSAs affected by the Cures Act EVV expansion must complete EVV policy and EVV Portal training before Dec. 1, 2020, and then annually. See the EVV Required Training Checklist (PDF) for more information.

To meet the training requirement, program providers and FMSAs attending these webinars must:

1. Register for Session 1.
2. Register for Session 2.
3. Attend both sessions from start to finish.

To register, click the links below:

FMSAs

• Session 1 – June 2, 2020 – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
• Session 2 – June 3, 2020 – 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

HCS/TxHmL

• Session 1 – June 9, 2020 – 8:30 am to 12:30 pm
• Session 2 – June 10, 2020 – 8:30 am to 12:30 pm

Additional Training Opportunities

Program providers and FMSAs can also meet training requirements by completing computer-based training online in the HHSC Learning Portal and TMHP Learning Management System. HHSC and TMHP are planning additional live training events this fall and will provide more information when available.

Email TMHP for questions about registration or the EVV Portal.

Email questions about EVV training requirements.

 For more Cures Act information, visit the HHS EVV Cures Act webpage.

If you miss the EVV training dates, you may take them on the HHSC learning portal:

https://learningportal.dfps.state.tx.us/

Please go to HHSC’s page on Electronic Visit Verification for the latest information/ updates to EVV.  Please see Training & Joint Training pages from HHSC as well!

https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/electronic-visit-verification

Updated Timeline for Cures Act EVV Expansion     

The updated timeline for expanding the Cures Act EVV requirement to all Medicaid personal care services is now available on the HHS Cures Act EVV website.

The timeline includes new information and resources about the EVV Practice Period beginning July 1, completing training requirements, and more.

This information is for Cures Act program providers and FMSAs (PDF) required to use Electronic Visit Verification by Jan. 1, 2021.

For questions, contact EVV.

• •  

     EVV Proprietary System page 

    http://www.tmhp.com/Pages/EVV/EVV-Proprietary.aspx

    Providers currently required to use EVV must continue to use EVV under state law and HHSC policy. See the Programs and Services Currently Required to Use Electronic Visit Verification (PDF) 

    For questions about EVV vendors, email evv@TMHP.com

New EVV Proprietary System Onboarding Documents Available

TMHP has posted new information about the EVV proprietary system onboarding process on the TMHP EVV Proprietary Systems webpage.

The documents located in the Onboarding section provide an overview of the approval process that a program provider or FMSA must complete before using their own EVV proprietary system. For more information, refer to the article on the TMHP EVV website (PDF).

Resources

• Contact: Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us
• Website: HHSC EVV Cures Act

Trainings Available:

• HHSC EVV Training webpage

EVV Policy Training (Provided by your payer)

• The HHSC EVV Policy computer-based training (CBT).
• The MCO Policy training. Contact your MCO for EVV Policy training opportunities.

EVV Aggregator and EVV Portal Training (Provided by TMHP)

• TMHP EVV CBT modules 1-6.
• TMHP EVV Webinar training.

There will also be instructor-led trainings (EVV Roadshow) in October. Find the schedule and register on the HHS Learning Portal.

Additional training resources are available on the HHSC EVV website and the TMHP EVV Provider Training webpage.

For questions about this alert, email Electronic_Visit_Verification@hhsc.state.tx.us.

Check out our page at “Gotostage” where we are providing  recordings of our free webinar sessions and other education For HCS, TxHmL, and ICF Providers

https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b

September 15th, 2020

Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Competency Training and Exam

Now Available in Spanish!!   

HHSC’s Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation Competency Training and Exam is now available in Spanish.

This training is designed to meet the basic ANE training requirements for staff providing direct care in a community setting.

To access the training and exam:

1. Go to the Texas HHS Learning Portal
2. Staff members, service providers and volunteers must first sign up on the Learning Portal to access HHSC-approved trainings, if they have not already created an account.
3. Click “Medicaid Long Term Services and Supports Training” and select “Curso para la prevención del abuso, negligencia y explotación (ANE)” to access the ANE training and test in Spanish.

ANE Competency Training & Exam

The training and exam requirements for the following long-term services and supports programs can be found below:

Home and Community-Based Services

TAC §9.175 Certification Principles: Requirements Related to the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of an Individual

HCS Handbook Appendix XII, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Training and Competency Test

Texas Home Living

TAC §9.585 Certification Principles: Requirements Related to the Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation of an Individual

TxHmL Appendix IX, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Training and Competency Test

Reporting a Death to HHSC in the HCS/TxHmL Programs

September 3rd, 2020

To report a death, HCS/TxHmL providers should complete Form 8493, Notification Regarding a Death in HCS, TxHmL programs by the end of the next business day following the program provider becoming aware of the individual’s death. Then fax the completed form to HHSC to 512-206-3999according to the newest version of form 8493 that was updated in May of 2020.

FYI-The previous fax # was 512-438-4148, which is still noted on the HHSC website as of now.  Please make sure you are faxing to the fax # listed on form 8493.

 

August 10th, 2020

Administrative Penalties Update!

HHSC Postpones the Implementation of Administrative Penalty Rules for HCS and TxHmL Providers

Due to COVID-19, HHCS is delaying the implementation of the administrative penalty rules for HCS and TxHmL providers until January 1, 2021.

If you missed the most recent webinar for Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living providers Long-term Care Regulation to discuss questions and answers related to administrative penalties on July 9th, please register to watch recorded session below.

Register for the WSC Q&A Webinar Regarding Administrative Penalties.

If you missed the initial Joint Provider’s webinar on June 25th discussing Administrative Penalties, you may see the webinar recording of the session below. 

June 25, 2020

A recording of June 25, 2020, HCS and TxHmL Joint Provider Training on Administrative Penalty Rules webinar is available for those unable to attend.

View the webinar recording here

---

June 7th, 2019

Revised: IL20-11 Temporary Guidance Extended Through Oct. 30 for IPC’s & IDRC’s

To ensure people do not experience a gap in services due to the temporary suspension of face to face service coordination visits for COVID-19, the Texas Health and Human Services Commission will extend Intellectual Disability/Related Condition assessments and individual plans of care expiring at the end of June 2020. This is for people enrolled in the Home and Community- based Services Program or the Texas Home Living Program.

HHS revised IL20-11, Extensions of Eligibility and Individual Plan of Care Revisions for Individuals in HCS and TxHmL Due to COVID-19 (PDF). It was previously issued on March 26 and extends the temporary guidance through Oct. 30, 2020.

Call the IDD Program Enrollment Support message line at 512-438-2484 for ID/RC assessment questions.

Call the IDD Utilization Review message line at 512-438-5055 for IPC extension or revision.

---

Email medical_and_social_services@hhsc.state.tx.us with your questions.

HHSC Launches IDD Operations Portal for HCS, TxHmL, ICF-IID, CFC Non-Waiver Providers and LIDDAs

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission are pleased to announce the implementation of the Intellectual and Developmental Disability Operations Portal. Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authorities, Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living, Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities providers may begin registering to use the IDD Operations Portal starting April 1, 2019.

The IDD Operations Portal is an online system that allows secure submission of electronic documents to and from the IDD Program Eligibility and Support and IDD Utilization Review departments. This portal is not replacing any of the systems you use today, such as TMHP or CARE. It is intended to result in a more timely and efficient submission of documents, and allows providers to check the status of submissions online.

Staggered implementation is happening now. Providers and LIDDAs with DBAs starting with C-G can now register for portal access.

Please see the full implementation schedule detailed in the information letter listed here.

Based on the many phone calls, emails and contacts through our social media pages concerning Job Positions Desired and Job Openings with HCS providers, I have decided to use our “Updates” page to provide a place where both those persons desiring a position with an HCS Provider and those Posting a Job Position can find each other!

We will not be posting the job description or information on this page directly.  If you contact Meghan Jones at meghanjones.tx@gmail.com and let her know where you are posting a position and who to contact, we can put a link and the contact person’s name, # and/or email.  For example, you are posting on Indeed, Linkedin, BenefitMall, Facebook, PACSTX job postings, an online newspaper, etc…

We will also continue to repost openings when we can on our Linkedin page as well as our Facebook and Instagram pages for Twogether Consulting.

There is no charge, we just ask you all to keep referring us to others who don’t know about us for their HCS business needs and of course we hope you will continue to use our services to assist you with your training needs, on-site and off-site assistance. 

Julie Blacklock/ Owner

Current Job Postings (See below)

November 15th, 2020

2020 ICF Provider Conference
Virtual webinars scheduled for November 18, 2020

Top 10 Citations9:30 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. 1.5 hours of CEUs AvailableRegister for the Top 10 Citations Webinar

Register for recorded session below:

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3345337105764308238

Infection Control1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.1.5 contact hours of Nursing Continuing Professional Development Available1.5 hours of Continuing Education for Social Workers AvailableRegister for the Infection Control Webinar

Register for recorded session below:

https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/6505906369550667534

10/29/20

IL20-45 Renewals of ID/RC Assessments/ and IPC’s and  Requirements for Revised IPCs and Transfer IPC

This information letter (IL)explains:

-renewal intellectual disability or related condition (ID/RC) assessments and individual plans of care (IPCs) are automatically renewing for one year from the expiration date for ID/RCs and IPCs expiring through December 30, 2020

     -beginning with ID/RCs and IPCs set to expire December 31, 2020, renewal ID/RCs and IPCs will be completed by the provider or service               coordinator before the expiration date;

      -renewal ID/RCs can be completed via telehealth and renewal IPCs can be completed via telehealth or telephone; and

      -continued exception to the requirement that an individual or legally authorized representative (LAR) sign IPC and supporting documentation.          These actions help ensure individuals do not experience a gap in services due to the COVID-19 public health emergency and there is  continued flexibility for limiting face-to-face contact for waiver renewals and service plan revisions.

In addition, if an individual loses waiver eligibility during the PHE, the individual will maintain waiver services

For more information:  Click on this link:  https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/communications/2020/letters/IL2020-45.pdf

Our wonderful contact person, Laura Throneberry is, unfortunately, no longer at ADP Payroll.  She has been offered a wonderful new opportunity, and she will greatly miss working with Providers.  You all may be familiar with our other contact, Mitchell Deter.  He will still be assisting providers that work with HCS/TxHmL/and ICF.  Some of you may already be working with him.

Our newest HCS/TxHmL/ICF provider liason is Erin Langlais, who just presented at our free webinar sessions in October of 2020.  She and Mitch were nice enough to give us their time to be part of our free webinar resources for providers.

Erin’s contact info:  907-854-6659 and her email is,erin.langlais@adp.com

Mitchell’s contact info:  803-730-7861  and his email is mitchell.deter@adp.com 

How is ADP addressing Covid-19 with their clients?  See links below:

Don’t forget if you are trying to develop training and policies around Covid-19, ADP can help!!

https://www.adp.com/about-adp/data-security/client-resources/adp-covid-19-preparedness.aspx

https://www.adp.com/spark/articles/2020/03/covid-19-protecting-your-employees-and-business.aspx

http://chrome-extension://oemmndcbldboiebfnladdacbdfmadadm/https://www.adp.com/-/media/who%20we%20are/pdf/business-resiliency-brochure.ashx?la=en&hash=0125A6ECCCF06EDBF9E503030B18EA7023358032

EVV 

ADP is now partnering with TSheets, which will be great for our HCS/TxHmL providers who use ADP or who want to use ADP for Payroll and HR support.

Even if you have ADP already and want to upgrade your package, call or email Katie Marx at ADP ( she is Twogether Consulting’s liaison we have been working with) to assist our HCS/TxHmL and ICF providers. I hope this makes it easier for some of you who are concerned about having to get another separate service for Electronic Visit Verification.

Supercharge your ADP Time Cards with T-Sheets!

EVV (Electronic Visit Verification) Tracking

Manage Scheduling

Track Time By The Job

Easy Accurate Time Sheets

Mobile Time Tracking

Who’s Working Now and Where?

Alerts & Approvals

Reports

Please remember to mention how you found out about ADP through “Twogether Consulting/ Julie Blacklock” 

For those of you looking for payroll and HR services for your HCS , TXHmL, and ICF Programs, especially in the Houston and surrounding areas, I urge you to contact Erin Langlais or Mitchell Deter at ADP about these services and more.  These are our main contacts for HCS/TxHmL provider client base in the Austin and Houston area for the most part, and their specific needs.  They do work with providers in other parts of the state as well. They have now also added OIG and LEIE monthly checks to part of the HR services they can provide.  Woo hoo!

ADP can help you with everything from payroll, to employee handbooks for your company, to tracking items due for your HR files, etc… Whether you are new, small, or large business we could all use some help.  At a time when Providers really need to watch every penny, it is nice to also be informed or updated about changes coming!

Some of The Helpful ADP Free Training Webinars & Recordings

Title: Workplace Spotlight: COVID-19 Legislative Updates – How the Paycheck Protection Program Flexibility Act (PPPFA) Changed PPP Loan Forgiveness

Duration: 1 hour

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2425491&sessionid=1&key=BA14109722A0F3C21600A063428446C4&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: How to Create Instant Cash-flow for Small Businesses Leveraging CARES Act and R&D Tax Credits

Duration: 1 hour, 3 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.adp.com%2Fresources%2Fevents.aspx&eventid=2386032&sessionid=1&key=A4098DF17F17CDBB4582C737C4113CA4&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: Workplace Spotlight: CARES Act & COVID-19: Understanding the Employee Retention Tax Credit and Other Tax Implications

Duration: 1 hour, 1 minute

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2281116&sessionid=1&key=811BF8DD403E27DEC8601E210E210CCD&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: SPECIAL EDITION: Protecting Your Workforce and Understanding Policies as Your Organization Responds to COVID-19- Part I

Duration: 35 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2218023&sessionid=1&key=B0D8739554A6735C19B30AA5ECDAE3FD&regTag=&sourcepage=register

Title: SPECIAL EDITION – PART 2: Protecting Your Workforce and Understanding Policies as Your Organization Responds to COVID-19

Duration: 1 hour, 2 minutes

Available On Demand

https://event.on24.com/eventRegistration/EventLobbyServlet?target=reg20.jsp&partnerref=web&eventid=2225067&sessionid=1&key=1E14A512E04471768B1056BB7453393A&regTag=&sourcepage=register

PEO 101: HOW HR OUTSOURCING CAN HELP YOU AND YOUR CLIENTS DURING UNCERTAIN TIMES

Register

Cost Free

CPE Credits1.0 hour

CE Credits0.0 hours

Course Description

During these uncertain times, it is even more important for businesses to have help navigating employee issues like workplace safety, compliance, HR, payroll and employee benefits.  Outsourcing HR through a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) solution is something accounting professionals and their clients can consider for that level of support. Join our panel of CPAs and industry experts as they discuss the most critical elements you need to know about PEOs, from how they work and their benefits to the role they can help play in a crisis so your firm and your clients can both continue moving your business forward.

https://www.adp.com/

College of Direct Support  http://www.directcourseonline.com/direct-support/about/

DirectCourse | “College of Direct Support brings training in line with the latest research and partners with other leaders in the field of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities”

Has a fantastic training curriculum for Direct Support Staff and their supervisors.  See a list of courses from the 2019 catalog in the link below:

https://www.directcourseonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/2019-CDS-catalog_Final.pdf

Direct Support Professionals 

From the DSP Perspective: Exploring the Use of Practices That Align With Trauma-Informed Care in Organizations Serving People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
An article in the June 2020 issue of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities by an author affiliated with Indiana University Bloomington discusses a study that explored the extent to which intellectual and developmental disabilities organizations utilize practices that align with trauma-informed care with their DSP workforce. (abstract free of cost, full-text access available with a fee)

The Impact of Ongoing Staff Development on the Health and Safety of People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
An article published in the Journal of Developmental and Physical Disabilities by an author affiliated with the Council on Quality and Leadership reports on a study exploring how ongoing staff development impacts the health and safety of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. (abstract free of cost, full-text access available with a fee)

Free Online Training at The Center For Start Services:  The  National Leaders in the Mental Health Aspects
of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities                                                                                                                                                                                                     For all their training go to  https://www.centerforstartservices.org/community-resources

Free Video Training from the NADSP and AADMD  “The Role of The DSP and The Corona Virus”,  Part I-check out this amazing training video.    https://youtu.be/ud4Q4e_hcuw

Part II of this DSP Video Training session is as follows:  “The Role Of The DSP and The Corona Virus” Part II  https://youtu.be/VfErVzMn9-A

Free Training For Those Who Support Persons With IDD

https://hhs.texas.gov/about-hh s/communications-events/news/2017/01/free-training-people-who-support-clients-idd

COVID-19 Resources

https://open.texas.gov/

HHSC COVID-19 Provider Information

https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-provider-information

https://www.txdisabilities.org/news-events/coronavirus-information-resources

ANCOR’s COVID-19 Resource Center

https://www.ancor.org/covid-19

CDC information for persons with IDD

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/need-extra-precautions/people-with-disabilities.html

Resources from HRS

“As the situation with Coronavirus (COVID-19) develops, HRS is committed to providing those who work in the field of IDD supports with practical, sensible, and usable health information regarding identifying those at most risk and steps that can be taken to reduce the severity of the impact of this disease.”

Below are links to free helpful resources from HRS  (Training Videos, Webinars, and Bulletins)

https://hrstonline.com/covid-19-resources/

HHSC Publishes HCS Expanded Visitor Attestation Rules & Guidance Letter

September 25th, 2020

HHSC Visitor Expansion Rule.  See the following rules in PDF updated on 9/25/20.  https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/providers/long-term-care/hcs/hcs-covid-19-updated-emergency-rules.pdf

PL-20-40 is the letter providing guidance for the new rules  The new attestation form is at the bottom of this alert letter from HHSC.  See the following PDF of PL-20-40:  https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/communications/2020/letters/PL2020-40.pdf

HCS Emergency COVID-19 Mitigation Rules 

Click on link below to see new rules that were adopted!

hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/providers/long-term-care/hcs/hcs-covid-19-emergency-rules.pdf

An ICF resident, as well as an individual living in an HCS group home, may have up to 2 Essential caregivers, as defined in the emergency rules, and they must have a negative COVID-19 test result from a test performed no more than 14 days before the first essential caregiver visit unless the facility chooses to perform a rapid test prior to entry into the facility.  Providers are still seeking clarification for some of the new COVID-19 emergency mitigation rules (including visitation rules) for persons receiving HH/CC services.  We plan to keep you updated!

Expanded ReopeningVisitation:

Phase 1 requirements all remain in place (except for compassionate care visits, which are being replaced with less restrictive essential caregiver visits.)

All facilities without an active facility acquired outbreak can move to visitation as outlined in the emergency rules(including those with isolation wings), but visitation is only allowed for residents/individuals,  who are NOT COVID positive and in areas away from COVID positive isolation areas.

Essential caregivers will be trained by the facility on PPE use and infection control, and they must meet the testing requirement.

Reopening is optional for facilities; those that do not feel they have the resources to re-open safely will not be mandated to open or allow for essential caregivers.

See the link below for more information on Visitation Rules for LTC Facilities, including ICF and HCS

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/services/health/coronavirus-covid-19/reopening-visitation-ltc-facilities.pdf 

September 6, 2020

HCS Billing Guidelines Revised-Sept. 2020

Please pay special attention to the changes and clarifications for Nursing Services!  We will be reviewing these in our “Billable Services-HCS-2020” webinar on Sept. 21st, 2020.  For more information please contact Meghan Jones to register:  meghanjones.tx@gmail.com   If you attended the recent Billable Nursing Services training in August (Part I and II) we did add these to your handouts at the time of the training.  You have the updated ppt. copy.  Thanks.  Here is the link to the HCS BG’s: 

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/providers/resources/hcs/hcs-billing-guidelines.pdf

Emergency Rule Adoption for TxHmL and COVID-19 Mitigation

See new rule at link below:

https://hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/doing-business-with-hhs/provider-portal/long-term-care/txhml-covid-19-emergency-rules.pdf

Twogether Consulting has added some new services to include:

DEVELOPMENT OF INFECTION CONTROL POLICIES & PROCEDURES, or at least to update your one with COVID-19 policies and protocols.  

(Based on Guidance noted in the HCS & ICF COVID-19 Response Plans                                                      

HCS-covid-response-plan.pdf     ICF-covid-19-plan.pdf

DEVELOPMENT OF EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLANS  In particular, so HCS/TxHmL providers are able to meet  compliance with Appendix K:  Emergency Preparedness and Response and COVID-19 Addendum

Appendix K-Emergency Preparedness and Response-COVID-19

Both of these items will most likely be requested of the provider, at some point during the survey process in the near future. (That’s if you have not already been asked to provide these items.)  This is especially true if the surveyor sees that you are not in compliance with HHSC’s COVID-19 Response Plan Guidance for the providers and CDC guidelines that are referred to in both of these documents.  These of course will definitely tie into TAC code citations and ICF Tags, particularly nursing and possibly ANE TAC codes for both programs (neglect in particular). 

For both of these services, contact us at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com   We would be glad to invoice you or you can notify us to make arrangements and then make payment at https://twogetherconsulting.com/payments/ 

OFF-SITE SERVICES TIME BLOCKS:  We now offer packages of 3 hrs, 6 hrs, 9 hrs and 12 hrs for those of you who need quite a bit of periodic off-site assistance services including but not limited to:: Question & Answer Sessions, Resources, Individual Policies or Procedures, Creating Forms,  and Other Inquiries.  Previously we only had 3, 6, and 9 hr blocks.  12-hr blocks purchased at one time will be at $60/hr (Total= $720)  For more information go to:  https://twogetherconsulting.com/services/off-site-services/   You may request an invoice or make direct payment instead to:  https://twogetherconsulting.com/payments/

This does not include Complete/extensive Policies and Procedures, Employee Handbooks, CAPs/POC’s , DIT’s, Webinars, or Off-site Training.  Please be sure to contact me directly if you have or are going to purchase online, and you would like to schedule some specific time for consultation javasbja@aol.com 

SCORING ICAPS: Some providers are brand new or may have a small number of individuals in their program.  Sometimes you just can’t afford the initial cost of purchasing the ICAP scoring system or you simply don’t know how to use the scoring system very well.  So if you have ICAP renewals due or are requesting a LON increase, for example, we will be glad to score your ICAP’s for you.  Please give us at least 5 days’ notice, if possible.  The cost is $25 per ICAP online if you purchase at our “Store”. https://twogetherconsulting.com/store/

We can provide a discounted rate if you have more than 5 ICAP’s at one time that needs to be scored. Contact us at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com   We would be glad to invoice you,

Nursing Peer Review Process-If your facility needs training on the Nursing Peer Review Process or needs help with performing a Nursing Peer Review, please let us help.  You can contact us at info@twogetherconsulting.com to request assistance.  Remember, the provider can often use this process to assist the nurse and to prevent the nurse from going before the BON (Board of Nursing) if it is determined that the issues can and should be addressed by the facility and the nurse.  The nurse uses a group of his/her peers to assess the situation, determine the seriousness of the concern or allegation, and recommend appropriate corrections and solutions by the nurse and the facility.  This process can be used to correct certain nursing citations as well and again, possibly prevent the nurse from being reported to the BON. 

FYI-If you have 10 or more nurses working for your program (ICF, HCS, TXHmL, etc….), the BON requires the facility to have a “Nursing Peer Review Committee” to review Nursing Infractions and all facilities could benefit greatly from having some kind of “Nursing Peer Review Process” in place.

 [NPR §303.0015 ]

“Any person or entity that employs, hires, or contracts for the services of 10 or more nurses (RNs, LVNs or any combination thereof) must have a Peer Review Plan; however, peer review of RNs is not mandatory if the facility employs less than 5 RNs. A person or entity required to have nursing peer review may contract with another entity to conduct nursing peer review.”

 What is Peer Review? [Nursing Peer Review (NPR) §303.001(5)]

Peer review is the evaluation of nursing services, the qualifications of a nurse, the quality of patient care rendered by nurses, the merits of a complaint concerning a nurse or nursing care, and a determination or recommendation regarding a complaint including:

1. the evaluation of the accuracy of a nursing assessment and observation and the appropriateness and quality of the care rendered by a nurse;
2. a report made to a nursing peer review committee concerning an activity under the committee’s review authority;
3. a report made by a nursing peer review committee to another committee or to the Board as permitted or required by law; and
4. implementation of a duty of a nursing peer review committee by a member, an agent, or an employee of the committee.

A Peer Review Committee may review the nursing practice of an LVN, RN, or APN (RN with advanced practice authorization).

There are two kinds of nursing peer review:

1. Incident-based (IBPR), in which case peer review is initiated by a facility, association, school, agency, or any other setting that utilizes the services of nurses; or
2. Safe Harbor (SHPR), which may be initiated by an LVN, RN or APN prior to accepting an assignment or engaging in requested conduct that the nurse believes would place patients at risk of harm, thus potentially causing the nurse to violate his/her duty to the patient(s). Invoking safe harbor in accordance with rule 217.20 protects the nurse from licensure action by the BON as well as from retaliatory action by the employer.

See revised rules 217.19 (Incident-Based Nursing Peer Review and Whistleblower Protections) and 217.20 (Safe Harbor Peer Review and Whistleblower Projections){http://www.bon.state.tx.us/nursinglaw/rr.html}

We are sorry to say, that our plan to start providing training again with Nursing CNE’s has been put on hold, due to the Pandemic (COVID-19).  We will keep you posted.

 Provider Specific Training now being offered by Twogether Consulting

• Training (Off-site) to Providers concerning Direct Care staff’s interaction with Surveyors during interviews and how this can affect the provider, particularly the nursing department, as well as preparing for the survey in general.  (HCS, TXHmL, and ICF)
• Training (Off-site) to Providers concerning “Nursing Expectations of Direct Care Staff and It’s Importance”  (HCS, TXHmL, and ICF)
• Training (Off-site) to Providers concerning Nursing Staff’s interaction with the Surveyors, particularly during the interview process with the nurse.  (HCS, TXHmL, and ICF)
• Training (Off-site) Other Direct Care staff training such as Abuse Neglect & Exploitation Reporting and Follow-Up for HCS/ICF, including PPT handouts,  Quiz and Inservice Sheet for your records or Certificates of Completion. This training does meet the new requirements listed in the current HCS TAC Code 9.175                                                         Let Twogether Consulting provide your facility with one on one webinar training.

Currently, all “On-site Training” is on hold due to COVID-19.  If you require any of these trainings, please check our calendars on our website for current webinars or contact us at:  info@twogetherconsulting.com for some of our pre-recorded training options.

Live Training On-Site (Please contact us if you want us to provide these trainings on-site for your program):

HCS/TxHmL: Care Coordination in the HCS Program, Using Person-Centered Thinking To Develop The IP (Implementation Plan), Changes in the HCS Progam, Quality Assurance, Changes in The Survey Process In HCS (we are adding one for ICF), Changes in The Billing Audit Process in HCS and TxHmL, Nursing in HCS/TxHmL Programs, Common Nursing Errors In The HCS/TxHmL Programs & Corrective Action Planning, ICAP/IDRC/ and LON Increase Packet Training.

ICF: The Role & Responsibilities of the QIDP, DIT on Active Treatment, Changes To the ICF Surveyor’s Guide-Appendix J- “How It Affects Your Program”, as well as DIT Trainings-A/N/E,  “Common Nursing Tags in the ICF Program-How to Prevent & Correct Them“, Nursing In The ICF Program as well as ICAP/IDRC/ and LON Increase Packet Training.

Direct Support Staff Training:  “Expectations of the Nurse from the Direct Support Staff”, “Abuse, Neglect, and ANE” (including recent changes in the HCS TAC), “When and What to Report To The RN”, Documentation Expectations for Direct Support Staff”, “Behavior Support Plans-general concepts and purpose of support plans”, “Interacting With Individuals with Developmental Disabilities in Your Program” (Effective Communication, Verbal Intervention, Appropriate/Inappropriate Reactions, Body Language, and more).

Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC

There are two Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living trainings in this series:

• HCS and TxHmL Employment Assistance Training
• HCS and TxHmL Supported Employment Training

The web-based trainings cover employment services provided through HCS and TxHmL, information about the payer of first resort for employment assistance, and the basics of providing these services. They are designed to enhance staff knowledge about providing quality employment services to people enrolled in the waivers.

Each training has a corresponding quiz.

• HCS and TxHmL Employment Assistance Quiz
• HCS and TxHmL Supported Employment Quiz

The Direct Service Workers web-based training provides information about employment services and how direct service workers can support people achieve their employment goals. The training covers federal and state initiatives related to employment for people with disabilities and touches on issues related to people who work and receive SSI or SSDI benefits. The training has a corresponding quiz.

• Direct Service Workers Training
• Direct Service Workers Quiz

Tuesday, June 9, 2020

HHS Announces Enhanced Provider Portal, Relief Fund Payments for Safety Net Hospitals, Medicaid & CHIP Providers

Today, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), is announcing additional distributions from the Provider Relief Fund to eligible Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) providers that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs. HHS expects to distribute approximately $15 billion to eligible providers that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs and have not received a payment from the Provider Relief Fund General Distribution. HHS is also announcing the distribution of $10 billion in Provider Relief Funds to safety-net hospitals that serve our most vulnerable citizens. The safety net distribution will occur this week.

“Healthcare providers who focus on treating the most vulnerable Americans, including low-income and minority patients, are absolutely essential to our fight against COVID-19,” said HHS Secretary Alex Azar. “HHS is using funds from Congress, secured by President Trump, to provide new targeted help for America’s safety-net providers and clinicians who treat millions of Medicaid beneficiaries.”

HHS is providing support to healthcare providers fighting the COVID-19 pandemic through the bipartisan CARES Act and the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act, which allocated $175 billion in relief funds to hospitals and other healthcare providers, including those disproportionately impacted by this pandemic.

ENHANCED PROVIDER RELIEF FUND PORTAL

On Wednesday, HHS is launching an enhanced Provider Relief Fund Payment Portal that will allow eligible Medicaid and CHIP providers to report their annual patient revenue, which will be used as a factor in determining their Provider Relief Fund payment. The payment to each provider will be at least 2 percent of reported gross revenue from patient care; the final amount each provider receives will be determined after the data is submitted, including information about the number of Medicaid patients providers serve.

The initial General Distribution provided payments to approximately 62 percent of all providers participating in state Medicaid and CHIP programs. The Medicaid and CHIP Targeted distribution will make the Provider Relief Fund available to the remaining 38 percent. HHS has already provided relief funding to over one million providers, and today’s announcement is expected to reach several hundred thousand more providers, many of whom are safety net providers operating on thin margins.

Clinicians that participate in state Medicaid and CHIP programs and/or Medicaid and CHIP managed care organizations who have not yet received General Distribution funding may submit their annual patient revenue information to the enhanced Provider Relief Fund Portal to receive a distribution equal to at least 2 percent of reported gross revenues from patient care. This funding will supply relief to Medicaid and CHIP providers experiencing lost revenues or increased expenses due to COVID-19. Examples of providers serving Medicaid/CHIP beneficiaries possibly eligible for this funding include pediatricians, obstetrician-gynecologists, dentists, opioid treatment and behavioral health providers, assisted living facilities, and other home and community-based services, providers.

To be eligible for this funding, health care providers must not have received payments from the $50 billion Provider Relief Fund General Distribution and either have directly billed their state Medicaid/CHIP programs or Medicaid managed care plans for healthcare-related services between January 1, 2018, to May 31, 2020. Close to one million health care providers may be eligible for this funding.

More information about eligibility and the application process is available at https://www.hhs.gov/coronavirus/cares-act-provider-relief-fund/general-information/index.html

For updated information and data on the Provider Relief Fund, visit hhs.gov/providerrelief

News Releases below:                                                                                                                                                                                           

media@hhs.gov
www.hhs.gov/news
Twitter @SpoxHHS

“Prep Session For HCS Provider Applicant Test” (Webinar)

Date:  Tuesday- July 2nd, 2020

Time:  (6pm-8:30pm)  Central time

Cost:  $150/person

“Description & Development of The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment”  (HCS/TxHmL)

Date:  July 20th, 2020   

Time:  10AM-12:30 PM

Cost: $55/person

For:  Nursing Staff, Quality Assurance Staff, Program Managers, Administrators

Presenter:  Gina Peterson, RN Consultant

Please register for this webinar on or before June 20th, 2020  10:00 AM CDT

After you have made payment for this webinar,  you will receive a confirmation email containing the handouts and a link to register with “Gotowebinar” to attend that session.  

The Importance of SAM’s & Special Needs Training:                                     “RN Considerations for Training In IDD Programs”

(HCS/TxHmL/ICF)  July 30th, 2020  

LON/ICAP/IDRC Training for HCS, TxHmL, and ICF/IID Programs

QA Session from 12:30 pm – 12:45 pm 

For:  Program Administrators, Program Managers, Care Coordinators/Case Managers, Service Coordinators, Nurses etc..

Instructions for the webinar and training handouts will be sent to your email after payment is made online or check is received.

Topics:

-A review of the definition of LON (Level of Need) in the HCS, TxHmL, and ICF/IID programs

-What is the ICAP (Inventory for Client & Agency Planning) and how is it utilized?

-When does the provider complete an ICAP and Why Do They Need To?

-What is the IDRC (Intellectual Disability/Related Condition) form

-When is the IDRC filled out and by who?

-What does LON mean (Level of Need)?  (assistance needed, dollars required for that assistance level, etc…)

-How do I get a Level of Need increase?  Who applies for the Level of Need increase?  

-Utilization Review Department- what is their role?  (Monitoring units in CARE and Utilization of services, Approving Levels of Needs, etc…)

“Billable Services In The HCS Program″

You will receive a link to register for the webinar and handouts after we receive payment.

Time:2.5 hrs

Cost:  $65 per person

Presenter:  Julie Blacklock/IDD Waiver Consultant

For: Administrators, Program Managers, Quality Assurance Staff, Care Coordinators, Nurses, Billing/Data Entry Staff

Topics:  

-Definition of all Billable Services on the IPC (Individual Plan of Care)

–Hourly and Daily Unit services such as RSS/SL, HH/CC, CFC (PAS-HAB), DH, REH, PT, OT, SP, DI, BES, CRT, AU, SW, CDS, etc…

-Other Services (Units in dollars only):  Adaptive Aids, Minor Home Modifications, Dental, Pre-Minor Home Mod and OT Assessment, TAS

– Recent and some Upcoming Changes in the HCS Billing Guidelines

-How does this affect the Provider?

-How can I use this change to improve services

-How do I document to capture the most billing?-How to prevent billing for non-billable services?

Update on TWC services Provider Manual and Resources 

The following revisions to the Vocational Rehabilitation Standards for Providers Manual (VR-SFP) are available for 30-day review on the Vocational Rehabilitation Providers’ Resources page and will go into effect on June 29, 2020.

Chapter 2: Obtaining a Contract for Goods and Services—updated Section 2.8.1 Adding Counties or Services, Goods, and/or Equipment to a Contract, to indicate that provider contracts awarded after January 2020 will be statewide and therefore will not list the counties to be served.

Chapter 17: Basic Employment Services—updated Section 17.4.1 Bundled Job Placement Services Service Description and its associated form VR1845B, Bundled Job Placement Services Plan—Part B and Status Report, to clarify which types of placements are acceptable for VR customers.

Chapter 18: Supported Employment Services—updated Section 18.1, Supported Employment Overview, and its associated form VR1643, Supported Employment Services Plan 2—Placement, Job Analysis &Training Plan, to clarify which types of placements are acceptable for VR customers.

Person-Centered Training Opportunities

HHSC Person Centered Planning/Practice Training Information

What Training Is Required?

Online Introductory Course

The Texas Health and Human Services Online Introductory Course is appropriate for any member of the planning team, including:

• Legally authorized representatives
• Family members
• Friends
• Nurses (required in some instances)
• Behavior specialists (required in some instances)
• Employment specialists (required in some instances)
• Attendants (required in some instances)
• Direct support professionals (required in some instances)
• Anyone asked to be a member of the planning team

Note: To access and complete this free online training, please go to the HHS Learning Portal, create a user login, and follow instructions to complete the training.

Person-Centered Thinking Classroom Course

To register for the Person-Centered Thinking 2-day classroom course, please go to the HHS Learning Portal, create a user login, and follow instructions to register for a class that is most convenient to your location. Begin Training An introductory course also is offered by DirectCourseOnline. The online offering includes courses in Person-Centered Counseling (PCC) and Person-Centered Thinking and Practice. There are 12 lessons in all.

HHS Approved Full Training

The following training is approved by Texas Health and Human Services for people required to take the full training, specifically case managers, service managers and service coordinators. If you would like to submit a training course to HHS for approval, email: Medicaid_HCBS_Rule@hhsc.state.tx.us. Remember to keep your training certificate.

• Delmarva Foundation’s Person-Centered Thinking Training or call 1-866-755-3506
• DirectCourseOnline
  • Person-Centered Counseling (PCC), Person-Centered Thinking and Practice (online) and Person-Centered Thinking and Practice In-Person Course (one-day facilitated training)
  • eCourse Catalog Person-Centered Counseling: Person-Centered Thinking and Practices [12 lessons; 8.5 contact hours]
• Lara Consulting Services
• The Hill Country IDD Regional Support Team will host a 2-day Person-Centered Thinking training with certified Person-Centered Thinking trainers in San Marcos. Eleven CEUs are available for SWs and LPCs.
  • Nov. 14-15, 2018 Register at Hill County IDD Person-Centered Thinking training November 14-15
• Institute for Person-Centered Planning Person Centered Thinking
• Learning Community for Person Centered Practices’ Person Centered Thinking Training, which can be provided by any Learning Community-certified trainer
• United Health Care Person-Centered Transitions to Community Living providerservicestx@uhc.com or uhc_cp_prov_relations@uhc.com Provider call center: 888-887-9003, 877-842-3210 or 800-905-8671

No other live training has been scheduled at this time, these sessions are suspended until we hear more about the Covid-19 virus to decide on whether or not these sessions would be advisable at this time.  We will continue with webinars and on-site training, until further notice. 

Behavioral Support Services

HCS and TxHmL Behavioral Support Services Provider Policy Training

(Has been mandated for HCS & TxHmL providers to ensure their contracted Behavioral Support Services providers to take since March 2015)

This course informs service providers of behavioral support services in the HCS and TxHmL programs related to the provision of behavioral support services in those programs.  All new behavior support service providers must complete the WBT before providing services to an individual. All providers must complete the course every three years.

***To document successful course completion, participants must print a copy of the certificate provided at the end of the training and submit a copy to a program provider with whom they are employed or contracted.

Survey Process:  Timelines

 Billing Guideline Changes

The HCS, TxHml, and CFC billing guidelines have been updated effective Nov. 15, 2019. A summary of the revisions can be found on page 25 of the CFC PDF, page 147 of the HCS PDF and page 129 of the TxHmL PDF. Send questions about the billing guidelines to HCS.TxHml.BPR@hhsc.state.tx.us.

HHSC Provider User Guide (CARE)       

Please go to the following link:

https://hhsportal.hhs.state.tx.us/helpGuide/Content/16_CARE/WaiverPDF/HCS%20Provider%20User%20Guide.pdf

.

April 15th, 2019

As of April 1, 2019, Long-term care intellectual and developmental disability providers and local IDD authorities can electronically submit and receive documents to and from HHS IDD Program Eligibility and Support and IDD Utilization Review.

Who Can Use the Portal?

If you contract with HHS to provide IDD services in the following programs, you can register and begin using the portal:

• Community First Choice
• Community Living Assistance and Support Services
• Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities
• Home and Community-based Services
• Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities
• Texas Home Living

What Are the Benefits?

To learn more, read the IDD Operations Portal Flyer (PDF).

Where Do I Register and Learn How to Use the Portal?

Complete the Initial Account Setup and register your business with the portal at txhhs.force.com. To learn more, read the IDD Operations Portal User Guide (PDF).

HHS will use email alerts, information letters, training webinars and in-person communications via existing stakeholder meetings to provide portal updates.

For technical issues, contact the IDD Operations Portal Team at IDD_Ops_Portal@hhsc.state.tx.us.

HHSC JOINT PROVIDER LIVE TRAINING

Save The Date:  2020 Waiver, Survey & Certification Training

2020 HHS Long Term Care Regulatory

Waiver Survey and Certification Joint Provider Training

SAVE THE DATE

June 30, 2020 to July 2, 2020  (3 days of training)

Location:

Crowne Plaza

6121 N IH 35

Austin, TX 78752

This collaborative conference will focus on a variety of topics central to the Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) waiver programs.

Featured topics will include, but are not limited to: Administrative Penalties, Amelioration, Informal Dispute Resolution, Nursing Services, Aging, Residential Surveys, Critical Incidents, and more!

Program provider staff, leadership, nurses, and HHS surveyors are encouraged to attend.  Registration will be available Spring 2020.

Questions? Please contact Tahoe Fintel at (512) 438-3161

MEDICAID WAIVER PROGRAM WEB-BASED TRAINING FROM HHSC

Abuse Neglect and Exploitation Competency Training and Exam     

( WE RECOMMEND HCS/TXHML PROVIDERS HAVE DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF COMPLETE THIS TRAINING)

This training is designed to meet the basic ANE training requirements for staff providing direct care in a community setting. By the end of the training, staff should be able to identify which acts constitute ANE, how to recognize ANE, understand risk factors for ANE, and what methods can be used to address ANE. Additionally, this training includes an introduction to trauma and its impact on the people we serve.

Service providers must complete a test with a score of 80 percent or higher. A training certificate can be printed at the end of this training and kept in staff personnel files to meet training requirements.

To access and complete this free online training, please go to the HHS Learning Portal’s ANE Competency Training course page, create a user login, and follow instructions.

Texas Oasis Dementia Training Academy

P.O.W.E.R. ANE Training Academy

NF Culture Change – Transforming Care within the Regulations

Emergency Preparedness (FYI-Directed towards Nurses in Facilities)

For more information please see the following link:

https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/PROVIDERS/Training/jointtraining.cfm to register and learn more about each of these events.

Scope and Severity Webinar Now Available

HHSC is currently offering a webinar to explain scope and severity for providers impacted by House Bill 2025, 85th Texas Legislature, Regular Session, 2017. The training is designed specifically for providers for whom scope and severity is new to the survey process.

Register for the Scope and Severity Training for ALF, DAHS, ICF/IID and PPECC Providers webinar to see available dates and times here.

Please continue to monitor the website for additional dates and times if you are unable to participate during the dates currently being offered. The webinar will be offered on a regular basis for the next few months.

There are 2 more on Nov. 6th have opened up..  Register at:   https://apps.hhs.texas.gov/providers/training/jointtraining.cfm

Changes to the MWH-IDD Website where TIC Training is Accessed

HHSC Long-term Care Regulatory has issued Provider Letter (PL) 19-08: Trauma-informed Care (TIC) Training to replace PL 16-15. The PL informs providers of changes to the Mental Health Wellness for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities website where TIC training is accessed.

This PL is addressed to Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions providers. Read the details of this PL here.