Challenge Unlimited awaits CARF arrival
CARF is one of the nationally recognized accrediting bodies that visits community rehabilitation providers, conducts agency interviews, reviews policies and procedures and bestows one- or three-year accreditations. Continually, since 1979, Challenge Unlimited, Inc. has earned three-year accreditations, the highest possible award from CARF and during the most recent survey in 2003, several departments received “exemplary” honors, the CARF equivalent of national acclaim.
CARF is an independent, nonprofit organization that focuses on ensuring that services agencies provide meet the highest standards for quality and the best possible outcomes. CARF reviews and grants accreditation services nationally and internationally on request of a facility or program. CARF standards are rigorous, so the services that meet them are among the best available.
Governor proposes $80 million increase for State Ops; Community Providers go unnoticed
The state administered system of care received $58.1 million for staff cost of living adjustments and merit increases; a $6 million increase for gas, electric and energy costs; more money for equipment and vehicles; and additional increases for property improvements. In all, state operated facilities will receive over $80 million in new resources.
“We believe persons with disabilities deserve the same level of quality staff and supports in community settings,” said Challenge Unlimited Director of Communications Jeff Allsman. “The Administration says we are partners, however, a true partner would not provide millions of dollars for one system of supports and zero funding for the other.”
Additionally, Allsman said the proposed budget does not include any funding to address the thousands of consumers waiting for community services.
“Challenge Unlimited employs more than 450 people and provides various support services to more than 500 individuals with disabilities,” Allsman said. “Every year, the operational costs of doing business continue to climb. With increased costs in utilities, transportation, health insurance and others, community providers are expected to provide the same quality services to individuals with disabilities while being squeezed economically by the Administration.”
“Community Rehabilitation Providers across the state have respectfully requested that funding for a cost of doing business for the community system of supports be included in the FY07 budget,” Allsman said. “We are also requesting that additional funding be provided to address the needs of individuals waiting for residential supports and day services.”
“Do the Right Thing” coalition seeks support of rate study
The 2005 State of the States by Dr. David Braddock, PNP/Navigant Cost Analysis, University of Illinois Rate Study, and PUNS substantiate the critical need for increased resources to maintain and make supports and services available for persons with disabilities receiving and waiting for them.
The Do the Right Thing Coalition calls for:
- 5% enhancement for current rates/reimbursements**
- DDD* -- $50.0 M
- DMH* -- $35.0 M
- DRS* -- $ 6.5 M
- DASA*-- $12.0 M
- EI therapies/service coordination* -- $ 8.5 M
- Community supports and services
- CILA (300 people)* -- $15.0 M
- Home-Based Support Services (400 people)* -- $ 8.0 M
- Family Assistance Program (300 people) -- $ 2.5 M
- New Medicaid waiver for home and community-based services for children with developmental disabilities*
