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This overview explores the history, key factors to success, lessons learned, and future opportunities of the Massachusetts Aging & Disability Resource Consortiums. Discover how this collaborative model enhances individual choice, improves collaboration between organizations, and provides seamless access to services for elders and persons with disabilities.
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Aging & Disability Resource Consortiums The Massachusetts Experience February 14, 2007San Diego Long Term Care Integration Project
Overview • Brief History • Key Factors to Success • From Pilot to Expansion • What Have We Learned? • Future Opportunities
Brief History • 2003 ADRC Grantee • “No Wrong Door” decentralized model • Key ADRC Partners: Independent Living Centers (ILCs) and Aging Service Access Points (ASAPs) • Regionalized approach • Initial pilot site in the Merrimack Valley • Third year expansion to the Greater North Shore region
Project Key Objectives • Enhance individual choice and support informed decision-making through the provision of comprehensive information and assistance about long-term support options • Provide seamless access to services for elders and persons with disabilities of all ages • Improve collaboration between ILCs and ASAPs • Decrease gaps in current services through joint advocacy and problem solving
Key Factors to Success • Support for project by executive leadership at State and local levels • EQUAL partnerships • Recognition that there are more similarities than differences • Agencies retain own autonomy, yet strengthen community presence through collaboration • Support of regional variation and ownership over model
Key Aspects of the Massachusetts Model • Cross-training of ASAP and ILC staff to enhance service delivery • Coordination and streamlining of key functions within existing organizations • “No Wrong Door” approach versus “Single Entry Point” • Involvement of consumers and community stakeholders as advisors
Key Partners: ASAPs and ILCsHow are they the same?How are they different?
Analysis of Similarities • Compatible vision and mission • Both serve populations who need functional assistance • Access to different arrays of services • Both local non-profits with local consumer-controlled boards • Various funding bases • ASAPs: Older Americans Act, EOEA, Medicaid, other state/local • ILCs: Title VII of Workforce Investment Act, State IL, other state/local
Similarities (Continued) • Use of core client-centered databases and management information systems • Commitment to serve individuals in the settings and manner of their choice • Commitment to divert and/or transition individuals out of institutions to home and community-based supports
How Does the ADRC Provide Services? • Initial Contact Streamlined!! Call, visit, or email either the ASAP or ILC for information, assistance and access to long-term services and supports • Staff provides home visits, advocacy, and program-specific information • Most services are free: Some require financial eligibility, or request a small donation
Why Collaborate? • It’s the right thing to do! • Increased access by consumer to broader array of options for living independently • Opportunity to advocate together on legislation and policies that enhance the ability of individuals to live independently in the community • Major federal initiative
Key for ADRC SuccessFirst Steps • Begin ASAP / ILC dialogue early • Involve senior leadership • Identify “champions” • Leave ASAP / ILC “hats” at the door • Begin cross training and information sharing
Key for ADRC SuccessSecond Steps • Enter Memorandums of Understanding • Facilitate “seamless” interagency communication • Reach out to other organizations for their involvement in ADRC • Invite consumer participation • Create advisory group(s)
What Have We Learned? • Early leadership buy-in is critical • Identify “champions” • Recognition that partnering is “the right thing to do” • Leave your “hat” at the door • Support regional variation and culture while remaining true to ADRC core functions • Importance of ongoing cross training • Cross agency communication and leadership is important-create a Management Team!
Parting Thoughts • ADRCs should be tailored to local conditions • Communication and trust are essential components • An ADRC is not a new organization, it is a NEW RELATIONSHIP of existing organizations • ADRC as the gateway to services
For more information • Heather Johnson-LamarcheADRC Project DirectorHeather.Johnson-Lamarche@hughes.net802-879-1338 • Sandy TocmanADRC Project Manager-Elder AffairsSandra.Tocman@state.ma.us617-222-7514