Aging & Disability Resource Consortiums February 14, 2007 San Diego Long Term Care Integration Project The Massachusetts Experience

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 ILCs How 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 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 Success First 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 Success Second 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-Lamarche ADRC Project Director Sandy Tocman ADRC Project Manager-Elder Affairs