Reminder: EQUAL Application Available and Due Nov. 7

The Enhancing the Quality of Adult Living (EQUAL) program application is now available and must be electronically submitted by 5 p.m. on Fri., Nov. 7, 2014.  Operators of Adult Care Facilities (ACFs) that serve recipients of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and/or Safety Net benefits are eligible for this funding.  The EQUAL program is intended to enhance both residents’ quality of care and life experience in adult care facilities.

Click here to view the Dear Administrator Letter (DAL), which provides more information about eligibility, how funds can be used, and how the level of payment is determined.  This year, the EQUAL application is electronic and is posted on the Health Commerce System.  Hard copies will not be accepted.  The DAL provides instructions on how to access the application. Click here to view the “conditions of participation” to access the funds, which include the timely completion of reports required by DOH.  Remember that your Resident Council must approve your spending plan.  Additionally, facilities must have a Statewide Financial System (SFS) account to receive the funds electronically.  Click here to access the form needed to establish an account.  If you do not have an established account, we recommend you start that process immediately.  The DAL provides instructions on that process. Lastly, click here to view the certification page, stating that the funds were expended as intended.

Questions regarding the EQUAL Program should be directed to DOH’s Nancy Nowakowski or Dorothy Persico at (518) 408-1133, or by email at equal@health.ny.gov.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828