On December 12, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) presented guidance* to states to leverage worker registries to boost beneficiaries’ access to home- and community-based services (HCBS). While the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) helped HCBS programs tremendously, ARPA says that “states must use funds to implement or supplement activities to enhance, expand,…
We’ve all heard and read about depression during the holiday season, but it can especially ring true for seniors and people with disabilities for a myriad of reasons. There is also tons of real data to back up the fact that a countless Americans feel this burden during this season. Along with that data, as…
Self-direction is a model of long-term care that helps people—of all ages with varying disabilities—live independent lives in their own homes. Self-direction began in the 1980’s during a movement to de-institutionalize people with disabilities from settings like nursing homes and hospitals and get them back into the community receiving their care. According to the AARP…
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes the self-directed or consumer-directed service delivery model as a meaningful strategy for veterans of all ages to access long term services and supports in a home and community based setting. The Veterans Directed Care (VDC) program was developed by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Veterans Health…
Pursuing a meaningful career is something most of us strive for in our lives. Individuals with disabilities are no exception to this. And individuals with disabilities that are also receiving services through a Medicaid waiver may encounter barriers in the pursuit of this goal, including Medicaid program or waiver qualifications that include income limits to…
Click here to read Palco’s Quarter Three Newsletter for 2023.
September is National Service Dog Month! National Service Dog Month is a month-long celebration honoring the hard work and life-changing impact service dogs make on people with disabilities every day. Service dogs and other pets can make a huge impact on the lives of people with disabilities and their families. by Spencer GriffinCommunications Director
The new school year kicking off can bring both excitement and stress! While many families are preparing for the first day(s) by gathering their supplies and new shoes, families of children with disabilities are often also preparing for any accommodations or tools their child will need to be successful in the upcoming year. If your…
Choosing the right caregiver for yourself or a loved one is a major decision. There are many options to consider when hiring, and resources at times can be overwhelming. According to the CDC, there will be 71 millon people 65 and older when all the baby boomers are at least 65 in the year 2030[1]….
Fraud, waste, and abuse is a common phrase heard throughout the medical and social services industry. Understanding what this means and how to prevent it is a key concern for state Medicaid agencies, managed care organizations, and self-direction program staff. We’re going to break down each of these topics and provide examples of steps you…