LeadingAge NY Provides DOH with Feedback on EQUAL Process
LeadingAge NY met with the Department of Health (DOH) last week to discuss the Enhancing the Quality of Adult Living (EQUAL) program and provide some feedback for consideration in the next application process, which is likely to come out later in the summer. Click here for more information and background on EQUAL.
When the EQUAL program changed in the 2020-21 fiscal year to be bifurcated into two pots of funding for capital and aid to localities projects, there were questions about how that would be implemented. LeadingAge NY had suggested that the Department conduct an education program to discuss this new approach. Unfortunately, given the financial condition of the state and the pandemic, the process did not proceed as planned. The compressed schedule for providers and the Department to ensure that EQUAL funds were allocated by the end of the fiscal year did not allow for education. We are pleased to report that the Department plans to provide education regarding EQUAL in advance of the new program, and to discuss allowable uses.
LeadingAge NY had also raised concerns about the difficulty of developing project proposals without knowing the amount of the award. This has resulted in the need to revise expenditure plans, creating additional work for providers and the Department alike. DOH is considering a new process moving forward where the plan will be created after the award is known.
There were several providers who did not receive an award for various reasons, and we are working to address those specific concerns and avoid those outcomes moving forward.
The Department was receptive to other suggestions regarding the application process. Based on some member feedback and experience, we are compiling a series of recommendations.
Members are encouraged to provide us with any additional suggestions regarding the EQUAL process by Mon., June 21st. Bear in mind that we are bound by the statutory framework of EQUAL and cannot change the purpose of the program or the funding levels for the 2021-22 fiscal year as they are outlined in the budget.
Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828