Planning Specialist

THE ARC OF HOWARD COUNTY INC•Ellicott City, MD

3d•$24 - $26•Hybrid

About The Position

The role of the Planning Specialist is to provide quality planning and technical support, as it relates to the Person-Centered Planning (PCP) process and Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) billing. Additionally, this role provides basic case management oversight as it relates to information contained in ICM and communications with teams.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required.
Knowledge of Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) & Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule, waiver and service definitions and regulations, guidelines, procedures & philosophy required.
Ability to drive is a requirement of this position.

Nice To Haves

Three years of experience in the field of IDD is preferred.
Person-Centered planning development and implementation experience is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

Support the PCP Process: Manage and follow the PCP process for people who receive community living, meaningful day, CDS, employment, supported living, or other support services from The Arc of Howard. Plan high-quality, individually tailored goals and provide resources, outcomes, goals, and completion for the people supported; ensure goals are relevant, measurable, and meet criteria. Collect, coordinate and update information for PCP preparation (previous plan progress, Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST) requests, SIS review, behavior plans, Nursing Plan of Care (NPOC), assessments, etc.), pre-planning using the Detailed Service Authorization Tool (DSAT, Cost Detail etc.), development (SIP) and according to all State and Federal regulations (including interim meetings). Complete pre-planning using tools from Charting the Lifecourse with each person receiving services before prep meetings with the full PCP team. Review the draft and final person-centered plans for accuracy as it relates to the person.
Leadership and Training: Lead and train agency staff to support person-centered initiatives, plans, outcomes, and goals. Provide guidance on the specific needs of people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. Assist with documentation training in ICM as needed.
Scheduling: Manage PCP scheduling and ensure adequate representation of The Arc staff and coordinating with the Coordinators of Community Services.
Process Improvement: Recommend new approaches, policies, and procedures to improve the efficiency of departmental services.
Funding and Service Development: Work with teams and the person supported to explore all waivered services to ensure needs and desires are met. Initiate funding requests with the Coordinators of Community Services for new and modified supports and services. In the absence of the Director, complete the DSAT as requested by the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration.
Case Management: Maintain regular contact with all members of the team in support of the person. Monitor incidents and ensure team members are notified in a timely manner. Act as an initial point of contact for Coordinators of Community Services. Maintain bi-monthly contact with all persons supported. In-person visits are a priority.
Monitoring: Monitor and review documentation as it relates to goals and outcomes, nursing services, behavior supports, and overall compliance related documentation at least every 90 days. Work with agency personnel and other team members when follow up is needed or documentation is not present. Monitor and review PCP approvals and Service Authorizations in LTSS to ensure accuracy.
Individual Support: Ensure individuals are supported in living the life of their choosing through their Person-Centered Plan (PCP). Monitor and facilitate the BSS process with the BSS provider. Attend the Human Rights Committee in support of the BSS. Work with the DSMs and Program Managers to ensure staff are trained on the current BSS plan. Behavioral services.
Documentation: Ensure accurate and timely completion of program documentation. Maintain and monitor files for those we support for compliance with regulatory agencies. Maintain up-to-date records and documents in the Electronic Health Records, iCare Manager (ICM) and program files including the PCP documents, entry of outcomes and goals, face sheet, behavior support plan, tracking charts and other documents relevant to the person and their services.
Health and Safety: Monitor and address the health and medical needs of individuals, promptly reporting any concerns.
Compliance: Work with Quality Enhancement Department regarding OHCQ investigations and Licensing Visits.
Benefits: Monitor existing benefits and assist the Benefits Coordinator in the submission of documentation for eligibility paperwork (i.e. SSI, SSA, Medicaid Waiver, Medical Assistance, food stamps, HUD).
Flexibility: Be open to additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned.
Other Functions: Promote Person-Centered Philosophy: Champion person-centered planning and self-direction within the agency and through external provider networks. Perform other duties as assigned by Executive Director.