ACF and AL Updates from DOH
LeadingAge New York is working with the Department of Health (DOH) on a variety of exciting projects that we think will benefit Adult Care Facilities (ACFs) and assisted living. Here are some updates that will be of interest to our ACF/AL members.
Regulatory Reform
LeadingAge NY has begun work with DOH and other stakeholders on ACF and assisted living regulatory reform. We will be starting by looking at Resident Funds and Valuables regulations, as well as residency agreements and related resident rights regulations. We encourage members to provide suggestions or reach out if you would like to participate in the LeadingAge NY workgroup, which will help guide our advocacy efforts in this process.
Electronic Plan of Corrections
DOH is currently piloting an Electronic Plan of Corrections (EPOC) system on the Health Commerce System. This system is currently in place for nursing homes, and we have heard positive reports. If any members are interested in testing out the process, and are due for survey soon, let us know. DOH is planning to implement this for all ACFs in early summer. Currently, all survey reports are now posted on the Health Commerce System (HCS). DOH reported that some providers are waiting for over a week to read their report after receiving the e-mail that notifies the provider of the availability. The report is available for only 14 days, so we urge members to open the report as soon as possible. DOH also reminds providers to check the HCS regularly, and keep the contact information up to date and accurate.
ACF Common Application Going Electronic
In other technology news, the new ACF Common Application is going electronic! DOH is actively working to develop an online fillable form, and expects it will be available in the fall. How do you like the new Common Application? Let us know!
OTDA SSI Data Request
The Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (OTDA) sent a letter to all ACFs in an effort to get more accurate information regarding the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients residing in ACFs. We urge members to respond to the request, which should be directed to OTDA rather than DOH.
IRP Process Update
DOH also reported that they will be issuing some changes in the Independent Resolution Process (IRP), and will clarify that endangerments are not subject to the IRP process. More information will be forthcoming in a Dear Administrator letter.
If you have any questions or suggestions regarding the contents of this article, please reach out to us.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828