KDADS Commissioner of Financial and Information Services Resigns

The Kansas Health Institute indicated yesterday that KDADS Commissioner Dave Halferty is resigning from KDADS.  Read the whole story by clicking on the image.

KanCare Oversight Committee: Medicaid Providers Share Concerns

The Kansas Health Institute Story reported on outcomes from yesterday's hearing of the Bob Bethell Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight Committee, including a number of concerns raised by Medicaid providers regarding timely reimbursement under the new Medicaid managed care model.  Click on the image to read the KHI story.

KanCare Oversight Committee to Meet Today

The Robert G. (Bob) Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight will hold a series of hearings today in Room 548-S of the Kansas Statehouse. The 11-member legislative committee is chaired by Senator Mary Pilcher-Cook and co-chaired by Representative David Crum.  

The committee will receive updates from Brownback Administration officials on KanCare implementation, and will also hear from a large number of stakeholders and advocates on KanCare issues and concerns. Tom Laing, Executive Director of InterHab, will offer testimony to the committee on concerns related to the January 2014 inclusion of I/DD long-term supports and services within KanCare.

Today’s meeting represents the first of two approved days of hearings this fall for the oversight committee. 

KanCare "Educational Tour" Update

Here's another report from KHI coming out of last week's efforts from the State to host educational tours regarding KanCare and the inclusion of long-term IDD supports and services set to take place in January.

State officials prepping for DD KanCare expansion
By Mike Sherry
KHI News Service
September 27, 2013

KanCare Update & Legislative Oversight Committee Meeting

An insightful article from KHI takes a look at how KanCare is affecting small and large hospitals in both rural and urban areas. The article also shares an update on the Robert G. Bethell Join Committee on Home and Community Based Services and KanCare Oversight. The committee name is definitely a mouthful but it's a nice homage to our late friend Rep. Bob Bethell who was devoted to seeing quality human services in Kansas.  Below are the details of the upcoming committee meeting:

KanCare Oversight Committee Meeting
October 7th @ 8:00am
Kansas Statehouse Room 548-S

Work in progress: KanCare problems persist for providers

From KHI News Service
September 23, 2013
By Mike Shields

Press Conference Today: Waiting List

Stay tuned, Governor Brownback and Lt. Governor Colyer will host a press conference this afternoon to discuss waiting list funding for Kansans with disabilities. We'll update our posts after the conference.

Here's the updated coverage from the day:

From KHI:
Governor Touts Waiting List Reduction Plan
http://www.khi.org/news/2013/sep/11/governor-touts-waiting-list-reduction-plan/


From the Topeka Capitol Journal
Brownback: KanCare savings will get some off waiting list:
Money will help some 5,000 Kansans with disabilities waiting for in-home services
http://cjonline.com/news/2013-09-11/brownback-kancare-savings-will-get-some-waiting-list#.UjDieoX7FgY.facebook

It's Alive!!! Power Up! Registration is posted and ready for action!

Power Up! is InterHab's Annual Conference; a 3-day event designed to inspire, educate and empower disability professionals. The Power Up! conference features engaging keynote sessions and a huge variety of small "learning labs" designed to give professionals the tools and information they need to best serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

You can learn more about what will be offered at the conference this year by downloading the e-brochure!

Schedule Overview:
Wednesday | October 16, 2013
8:30am:    Preconference
11:30am:  Executive Event: Luncheon
12:00pm:  Conference registration
1:00pm:    Power Up! Opening Session featuring Allison Massari
2:15pm:    Exhibitor Showcase and Kindle Fire HD Drawing!
3:00pm:    Learning Labs (concurrent sessions)
4:15pm:    Learning Labs
5:30pm:    Executive Event: President's Reception

Thursday | October 17, 2013
7:30am:    Continental Breakfast & Exhibitor Showcase
8:45am:    Keynote presentation featuring Mark Black
9:45am:    Learning Labs
11:00am:  Learning Labs
12:00pm:  Lunch and Exhibitor Showcase
1:30pm:    Learning Labs
3:15pm:    Learning Labs
4:45pm:    Learning Labs conclude
5:00pm:    InterHab-O-Bucks: $15 toward select area restaurants!
8:00pm:    Entertainment Night: TBA

Friday | October 18, 2013
8:00am:    Continental Breakfast
8:30am:    Learning Labs
9:45am:    Learning Labs
11:00am:  InterHab Annual Art & Awards Ceremony
1:00pm:    Conference concludes



Hotel Reservations:
A block of sleeping rooms has been reserved at the Hyatt Regency Wichita. You can make reservations online today:

https://resweb.passkey.com/go/2013InterHab 

If you need additional assistance, please call Hyatt Regency reservations at 1.888.421.1442.  There is a limited supply of rooms, so reserve yours today!

National Dialog on Employment for Persons with Disabilities

The article below, shared via Twitter by @ACCSES_DC, provides insight into a discussion on employment options for persons with developmental disabilities - a subject that has been receiving increased attention on the national level in recent months.

KanCare Oversight Committee: Update on Appointees

Representatives Crum, Edmonds and Dove have been appointed to the KanCare oversight committee. More appointments will be made at a later time, as the law establishing the committee designates there should be 11 members in total.  The KanCare oversight committee is officially known as the "Representative Roberts G. "Bob" Bethell Joint Committee on Home and Community Based Service and KanCare Oversight" - it's quite a mouthful to be sure, but a nice tribute to a legislator who was a good supporter of DD HCBS services.  Representative Bob Bethell passed in May of 2012.

Two days of KanCare Oversight Meetings

The Legislative Coordinating Council has scheduled 37 meeting days to cover a variety of topics during an interim legislative session.  The KanCare Oversight Committee, at the suggestion of the council's Democratic members, will meet for two of those days. Exact dates have yet to be announced.

Legislative Post Audit Committee Votes to Audit CDDOs

Earlier this week the joint Legislative Post Audit committee voted to audit the network of Community Developmental Disability Organizations (CDDOs) to assess the potential presence of conflict of interest. CDDOs serve as gatekeepers to the Kansas DD System.  They are non-profit or county-operated organizations that determine eligibility, assess an individual's needs and inform the individual of service options.  CDDOs are contracted by the State with oversight from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).

KanCare & Employment discussed at forum

Topeka Capitol Journal: July 20, 2013

Public comment sessions this week: Long-term I/DD and KanCare

Save the Date: Power Up! 2013

Mark your calendars for Power Up! The 2013 InterHab Annual Conference.  Power Up! is  a 3-day event designed to inspire, educate and empower disability professionals.  This event features engaging keynote sessions and a large variety of small 'learning labs' designed to give professionals the tools and information they need to best serve individuals with disabilities.

Do you have an interest in serving as an exhibitor or sponsor at the InterHab Annual Conference?  Would you like to share a presentation to help disability professionals?  If so, please contact Erin Roberts: eroberts@interhab.org

The Latest News on KanCare

June 7th - KHI News Service
State Officials Submit first quarterly KanCare report to feds

June 3rd - KHI News Service
Payroll agents for the disabled on Medicaid say they are struggling

Legislators adopt budget: carve-out not included

The story is long, but it can be summed up simply: The issues of KanCare and IDD services were among the most strongly debated and contested items of the 2012 and 2013 sessions, but on Saturday night, in the closing hours of the 2013 legislative session, we did not prevail.  Unless the Governor and the Administration for some reason change their direction, the IDD system will become a part of the KanCare managed care program effective January 1, 2014.

Advocacy among persons-served, their families, and their community service providers was tireless and courageous, and for nearly 17 months IDD advocates held off the managed care carve-in advocates, the Administration, the insurance industry, the elected leaders of both houses, the chairs of both budget committees and so on.

Up until the last half of the last day of the session, the outcome was in doubt, but in the end, the Administration’s influence outlasted the exhausted Legislature, and our supporters in the Legislature could not prevent the passage of the final budget bill of the session – the conference committee report on SB 171 – which did NOT include the carve- out of IDD services from KanCare.

In a vote later Saturday night, which was somewhat anticlimactic, the Senate also adopted the report.

Much credit is owed to those legislators who stuck with us in both houses and in both parties.  Special thanks to Representatives Becker, Henry, Lusk, Rubin and Ward.  Thank you also to those who provided powerful commentary on the House floor such as Representatives Ballard, Bideau, Hibbard, Rubin and Ward.

And much credit is owed to all of you who made tireless efforts to voice your concerns to educate your elected leaders and to advocate with great heart and tenacity on behalf of Kansans with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

There, of course, is still much work to be done.  We know we can rely on powerful advocates like to you to continue all efforts to support Kansans with I/DD in leading indpendent and fulfilling lives.

Never Give Up!

Last night the House rejected yet another tax proposal, which gives us valuable time to continue our efforts. We most not give in, we must persevere. Contact your state Representatives again (yes again!) and encourage them to persevere too!

Ask them to support Rep. Rubin's proviso.
Ask them to support carve out/delay of long-term DD services in KanCare.
Ask them to trust the strong views of citizens like you!
Ask them to reject plans that place management of non-medical care into the hands of insurance companies.

And remind them that the budget proposal, as it is currently constructed, is bad for Kansans with I/DD and bad for the State!

What's the status on the Siegfreid Proviso & House Budget Recommendation?

Earlier this week...

You'll recall from earlier posts that we've requested your help in urging House members to oppose the current House budget report (coming from a joint budget conference committee) that contains a KanCare/DD proviso submitted by Rep. Siegfreid - a proviso which does NOT carve out of long-term DD services from KanCare.

Our position on this remains firm, and we urge you to stay in touch with your local Representatives requesting them to vote NO.  We also encourage you to request that your Representatives prompt their leadership for a vote specific to carve out.

So what's the status now?

Currently, House leadership has decided to wait to vote on the budget until a tax agreement is made.  However, if you've been following the news, coming to an agreement on tax issues has become a long, drawn-out battle contributing to an extended legislative session.

UPDATE: The House just adjourned at around 9:40am and will return on Tuesday.

How can I stay tuned in?

We will absolutely put out the word when we hear activity is going to take place related to budget activity and any activity related to KanCare & DD.  Meanwhile, if you want to keep an eye on the tax debate you might want to jump on Twitter and follow these guys/gals/organizations (warning: following these Tweets can get a little addictive!)

@KSlegBot (Statehouse updates on chamber schedules)

@BrentWistrom (Statehouse Reporter, Wichita Eagle)

@ljwrothschild (Statehouse Reporter, Lawrence Journal World)

@bradc25 (Statehouse Reporter, KC Star)

@andymarso (Statehouse Reporter, Topeka Capital-Journal)

@WE_Tweet (Wichita Eagle Blog)

@APjdhanna (Statehouse Reporter, Associated Press)

@KHIorg (Kansas Health Institute)

Be sure to follow your local legislators too!

Oh - and you can always listen to live House and Senate proceedings at www.kslegislature.org

Contact House Members ASAP!

Rep. Arlen Siegfreid (Johnson County)  has succeeded in getting the House conference committee members to use his Administration-blessed proviso instead of a long-term DD care carve out proviso in the conference committee report for the budget.

As a result, rather than giving the House a chance to vote to carve-out IDD from KanCare, the proviso merely echoes language from the MCO contracts already negotiated with the State. The assurances in the proviso do NOT include carve-out, and therefore the Siegfried proviso should not be supported!

So here's what we need advocates to do:

1. Ask your representative to vote NO on the budget conference committee report that contains the Siegfreid proviso. 
2. Urge them to tell their leaders to let our carve out proviso come to the floor. 

Families, persons served and advocates have worked hard and have earned a vote on this issue. No one has a right to surrender our issue without talking to us first. The proviso that has been adopted is just that, a white flag of surrender.

As early as tomorrow afternoon, the conference committee’s budget agreement will be debated in the House. If it passes in the House, it will go to the Senate, and from there, if successful, to the Governor and the deal will be done. The time is now.

Why urge a NO vote on the budget deal?

1. This budget deal doesn't call for the carve-out of IDD services. 
2. This budget deal still includes the Crum proviso which says there will no IDD waiting list funds, as long as you are carved out.

TAKE ACTION NOW!

Call your representative(s).  Urge them to VOTE NO on the budget conference committee report.  

• Don’t know your representative’s phone number? Find it here: http://kslegislature.org/li/b2013_14/chamber/house/roster/

Send an email to your representative urging a NO VOTE on the budget conference committee report.      

• Don’t know your representative’s email address?  Find it here:  http://kslegislature.org/li/b2013_14/chamber/house/roster/ 

• Don’t know who your representative is?  Find out here: 
• http://www.openkansas.org/

Notify all advocates and stakeholders in your community to contact their representatives as well.

Do not delay!

InterHab Push Day

Thanks to all you amazing advocates who came out to create the largest and best "Push Day" yet!

Don't be bullied for speaking out!

The House Appropriations Committee, on a motion by Representative Dave Crum of Augusta, inserted a proviso into the House's budget bill that would take away any new waiting list dollars for Kansans with developmental disabilities if I/DD long-term care services were 'carved out' of KanCare.

This action is naked in its attempt to intimidate and bully the tens of thousands of Kansans who have urged their legislators to exclude these vital long-term care services from KanCare. It is also cruel punishment for hundreds of Kansans with developmental disabilities who have been forced to wait for years on waiting lists.

Don't be bullied! Let your legislators know that you still oppose inclusion of I/DD long-term care services within KanCare, and that you also oppose the attempt by a small number of legislators to punish hundreds of Kansans with I/DD who have waited for help.

Send a message to your legislators today!

www.invisiblekansans.org


Want to learn more?  Check out the articles below:
http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2013/may/09/republicans-push-through-proposal-blocking-desires/

http://www.sfgate.com/default/article/Kan-House-panel-approves-gov-s-services-plan-4502435.php

http://www.kansascity.com/2013/05/09/4228029/lawmakers-kancare-for-developmentally.html

http://www.kansas.com/2013/05/09/2796711/kansas-house-panel-ties-additional.html#emlnl=Morning_Headlines_Newsletter

Eagle Editorial Supports Carve Out!

KanCare News...

Yesterday, DD advocates packed the house at a public forum on KanCare in Olathe...

The Governor also released details regarding his plan to reduce waiting lists for home and community based services.  Projections include moving 200 Kansans with developmental disabilities off the waiting list.

"Roadblocks to care" - Special Editorial in the Eagle

Dear Governor Campaign TV Launch on Sunday

Today InterHab publicly announced our statewide media campaign to urge Governor Brownback to exclude long-term I/DD care services from the State's Medicaid managed care model known as KanCare.  Beginning this weekend, the following television ad will begin airing:

The media campaign, titled “Dear Governor,” will feature television and radio spots from parents of Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities directly urging the governor to exclude their child’s long-term care from KanCare. The spots will air in communities across Kansas. The media campaign will augment a widespread advocacy effort already underway across the state that has seen tens of thousands of Kansans e-mail, write letters and telephone their legislators and the governor to urge that I/DD long-term care services be excluded from KanCare. Advocates have also taken to social media with tens of thousands of “likes” and shares of “Dear Governor” pictures, videos and messages that have appeared on Facebook.

Article Update - From KHI

Below are a couple of articles providing updates regarding advocacy efforts to permanently carve out long-term I/DD services from KanCare, and a progress report regarding the KanCare "pilot" program...which is now being referred to as a transition program.

Great Special to the Star Opinion Piece & Letter to WE Editor

Below are two great news items - a "Special to the Star" Opinion Editorial from Effie Bradley of Lake Quivira shares her experiences with sister Liz and their shared concerns regarding KanCare.  In addition, Aldona Carney of Wichita writes a letter to the Wichita Eagle Editor.

Great Job ACT: Wichita Forum on KanCare and Kansans with I/DD

Congratulations to members of the ACT (Advocates in Communities Team) group who hosted a great public forum in the Wichta area on Saturday.  Over a hundred community members were present to learn more about KanCare implementation as it relates to Kansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

The event kicked off with a presentation by Matt Fletcher, Associate Director of InterHab and was followed by David P. Rundle an individual with a disability and David's brother.  David and his brother shared the impacts of KanCare implementation and the chaos surrounding the many attempts to rectify changes that were recently made in David's daily care.  The Rundles were followed by a Wichita mother who shared her experiences so far with KanCare.  Her story showcased the stark contrast between being able to rely on a current I/DD system Case Manager (someone who can aid you in finding community resources/activities to provide your child with fulfilling a lifestyle) versus a KanCare coordinator who is unfamiliar with her son and the community they live in.

Many local providers also shared their experiences and concerns regarding the impending inclusion of long-term supports for Kansans with I/DD, which will take place on January 1, 2014.

Editorials and Letters to the Editor Keep KanCare Issues Buzzing

Have you seen the latest KanCare editorials from the Lawrence Journal World and the Wichita Eagle?  And check out the two letters to the editor recently featured in the Osawatomie Graphic!

Lawrence Journal World: April 10, 2013

Wichita Eagle: April 5, 2013

Osawatomie Graphic: April 10, 2013

Invisible Kansans 2.0 and The 'Dear Governor' Campaign

InterHab is excited to re-introduce advocates to the new Invisible Kansans website and campaign.  A few years ago we began a campaign called Invisible Kansans to help lend our voices to issues important to persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities (I/DD), their family members and the professionals who support them.

Well, friends of the Invisible Kansans community, we need your help again!

We're calling on concerned persons with I/DD, their family members, human service professionals and all concerned citizens to add their voices to the choir of advocates urging for a permanent carve out of long-term I/DD services from KanCare!

To do so, we're asking you to help create some buzz on social media websites like facebook and twitter.  We want you to ask Governor Brownback to address our concerns and implement a permanent carve out of long-term I/DD services.  So share a picture like the one below or create a video like our friends at Mosaic in Ellsworth and share your concerns!

And be sure to send a letter or email to the Governor today - you can do so by visiting www.invisiblekansans.com!

April 4 KanCare Deadline to Switch MCOs

Just a reminder, persons with intelletual/developmental disabilities have until April 4th to choose a different KanCare plan.  KanCare plans were auto-assigned, but persons with I/DD may choose to change their plan by April 4th.

Details can be found at the website below

What's the latest on Sen Sub for HB 2155?

Sen Sub. for HB 2155 has been passed over, meaning it retains a spot on the calendar under “general orders”. Basically, this means that the Senate can take up the bill whenever they’re ready to. Good work today advocates, rest assured YOUR VOICES ARE BEING HEARD. More updates tomorrow!

Listen to Senators Debate Sen. Sub. for HB 2155

Listen to your senators debate Senate Substitute for HB 2155!  To listen in, visit the Legislature’s website (www.kslegislature.org) and click on the “A/V Live” link at the top of the page.  You will then be prompted to choose a media player on your computer to utilize in listening in.

Sen. Sub for HB 2155 is pretty far down the list of bills the Senate will consider today, so it will still be some time before they take up the debate on the bill.

You might also want to let your senators know that you’ll be listening in today.  Send them an email to let them know!

There's Still Time to Make a Difference on SSHB 2155

There's still time to make a difference on Senate Substitute for HB 2155!!!  Do the following advocacy activities before 10:00am...

1. Call your Senator (www.openkansas.org), tell them you oppose SSHB 2155
2. Follow up your call with an e-mail, explain further why you oppose SSHB 2155
3. Send a direct message to your Senator on Twitter
4. Post a message to your Senator's fb urging him/her to oppose SSHB 2155


Here's some inspirational news coverage of advocates raising their voices!

From the Lawrence Journal World...

From the Wichita Eagle...

IMPORTANT UPDATE: SB 194 Bill No. Change

Senate Bill 194 has been cut and pasted into a separate bill, House Bill 2155.  Therefore the new bill number is Senate Substitute for House Bill 2155.

SB 194 Amended: You be the judge...

Senate Bill 194 passed out of committee yesterday with an amendment further clarifying it's intent - to alter functions of CDDOs and put greater power into the hands of KanCare's insurance companies.  These changes further contradict the Administration's promises to leave CDDOs intact as well as the relationships between persons with intellectual/developmental disabilities and their case managers.  Case management in the I/DD system is founded on person-centered principles and includes frequent face-to-face interaction.  

You be the judge:

The KHI article below states the Administration's official position on the bill remains neutral, but we'll let you decide if their comments touting the benefits of the amendment equate to neutrality.

InterHab believes keeping a promise requires more than neutrality.  What do you think?

SB 194 Hearing Today

This afternoon (at 1:30pm) the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee will hold a hearing on Senate Bill 194.  This bill, as it is currently written, could challenge commitments made to the I/DD community by the Administration:

Commitment One: That the Administration would not amend the DD Reform Act
The Developmental Disability Reform Act was passed by the Kansas legislature in 1995.  The DDRA provides statutes for community-based I/DD services governed by a community/state partnership as well as philosophical direction to promote independent and fulfilling lifestyles for persons with I/DD.  The DDRA was written in part to establish a strong community/state partnership which was considered necessary to protect the interests of vulnerable Kansans against the potential that future Governors and Legislators could sell off the interests of publicly supported I/DD services to powerful external interests.

SB 194 contains language that could remove from some CDDO's the role of eligibility determination.  The CDDO (Community Developmental Disability Organization) acts as a gatekeeper to the Kansas I/DD system.  CDDOs are nonprofit or county-operated organizations that determine eligibility, assess the individual's needs and inform the individual of service options.  CDDOs are contracted by the State with oversight from the Kansas Department on Aging and Disability Services (KDADS).  The language of SB 194 favors a system which is friendlier to tightened eligibility and service reductions, which in turn favors insurance contractors preparing to take over I/DD services.


Commitment Two: That there would be no interference into the vital and critical relationships that exist between persons-served, their families and their targeted case manager
The language in SB 194 to affect some CDDOs could in turn affect the current relationships established between individuals with I/DD and their targeted case managers.  Case managers aid persons with I/DD (and their families) in coordinating services such as residential assistance, employment support, etc.  Currently, the individual with I/DD and/or their family has the right to choose their Case Manager.  SB 194 sets in motion the potential that the State or private insurance companies would assign case managers, removing a freedom of choice that is critical to the current system of supports.



What's next?
In this afternoon's hearing, we believe Secretary Sullivan, KDADS will express a neutral position on SB 194.  But neutrality does not equal support.

That's why we need YOUR support.  We must continue to raise our voices and share our concerns.  Bills like SB 194 only confirm our fears that commitments to a community-based, mission-focused network of supports for persons with I/DD cannot be maintained under the umbrella of KanCare.

Please, urge the Administration to keep their commitments by contacting your legislators today!

Legislative Calendar March 11 - 15

HOUSE

MONDAY MARCH 11TH
Appropriations @ 8:00 AM  RM 112-N
Final action on HB 2231 – Appropriations for FY 2014, 15, 16, 17, 18


TUESDAY MARCH 12TH
Appropriations @ 9:00 AM  RM 112-N
Final action on HB 2231 – Appropriations for FY 2014, 15, 16, 17, 18


WEDNESDAY MARCH 13TH
Commerce, Labor and Economic Development @1:30 PM  RM 346-S
Hearing on SB 73 – Workers compensation



SENATE

TUESDAY MARCH 12TH
Public Health and Welfare  @ 1:30 PM  RM 118-N
Hearing on SB 194 – CDDOs; performance of functional assessments


WEDNESDAY MARCH 13TH
Commerce @ 8:30 AM  RM 548-S
Hearing on SB 195 – Kansas employment first initiative act amendments

Federal and State Affairs @10:30 AM  RM 144-S
Hearing on HB 2193 – Public facililities; accessibility standards for disabled persons


THURSDAY MARCH 14TH
Assessment and Taxation  @  9:30 AM RM 548-S
Hearing on SB 162 – Allowing employees to retain and receive employer contributions for health insurance

KanCare implementation 'a daily inferno'

State officials paint a pretty rosy picture of the transitioning of Medicaid services to private insurance companies... but not everyone agrees.  Lori Lowrey, chief revenue officer for the Community Health Clinic of Southeast Kansas shares her point of view…

"I went through the tornado in Joplin and survived...I would equate the anxiety of KanCare with the anxiety I felt following that event.  It’s just been an inferno every day.”

HB 2029 Doesn't Advance - Now What?

On Monday of this week, the Social Service Budget Committee (SSBC) worked the HB 2029 bill that would carve-out I/DD services from KanCare.  Despite persistent efforts by Rep. Nancy Lusk (Johnson County) and the committee's ranking Democrat and longtime DD stalwart, Rep. Barbara Ballard, the committee voted NOT to send HB 2029 to floor for the House with a favorable recommendation.

So now what?

Keep Hope Alive:
One door closing does NOT mean the end of our efforts to permanently carve-out long-term I/DD care services from KanCare.  Other doors will be tried and we will most assuredly try them before this session is over.

Support those who support you:
Special thanks should be given to Representatives Jim Ward, Nancy Lusk and Barbara Ballard for hearing our concerns and championing our cause.  In addition, thanks should be shared with Rep. Brian Weber, chair of the House SSBC who didn't have to hold a hearing on this bill, but recognized it's importance.  Rep. Weber should be thanked and encouraged to support persons with I/DD even more by promoting a permanent carve-out!

Get Busy!
Last year we received a one-year delay from inclusion in KanCare because of YOU!  YOU put the pressure on your legislators by sharing your concerns regarding KanCare.  Do not relent!  This issue is more critical than before now that we know first-hand the challenges of working with Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) that have little experience with the I/DD population.

1. Email your legislator today urging a permanent carve-out and protection for the Kansas I/DD system: www.invisiblekansans.com

2. Write a letter to the editor of your local newspaper sharing your experiences with KanCare implementation and concerns for the future, should long-term I/DD services be included.

3. Ask your legislator to be a hero for Kansas I/DD services! Take a picture with your staff and/or persons receiving services holding a sign that says "Will you be my hero?" Post your picture to the InterHab's facebook page and send a copy to your legislator!

Recap of HB 2029 Hearing

Last Wednesday, InterHab staff and members provided testimony to the House Social Services Budget Committee in support of HB 2029 - a bill that would provide a permanent carve-out of intellectual/developmental disabilities services from KanCare.   More than 10 conferees spoke in support of HB 2029 including family members and board members of InterHab-member organizations.  Other I/DD stakeholders submitted testimony including Hal Shultz, a person with intellectual/developmental disabilities and representative of the Self Advocates Coalition of Kansas, who did a great job sharing his concerns.

Opposition to the bill was shared by state officials Mark Dugan, KDHE and Sec. Shawn Sullivan of KDADS.  Opposition testimony also included a fiscal note developed by the Division of Budget that claims carving out I/DD services would create a significant financial expense.  InterHab staff and members are perplexed by this fishy fiscal note and are calling for an independent fiscal note to be generated by the Department of Legislative Research.

House Social Services Budget Committee members were very engaged in the conversation.  Representative Crum, a proponent of the Governor's plan to privatize Medicaid services politely challenged many proponents to the carve-out.  Representative Lusk and others also asked meaningful questions to gain a further understanding of the I/DD service network and how KanCare has and will affect persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities.  Lusk expressed concerns and confusion as to how KanCare would improve long-term supports.  Rep. Ballard also shared support for carving out I/DD services, indicating that part of the system "isn't broke, so don't fix it".

InterHab members and I/DD stakeholders were glad for the opportunity to have the hearing lead by chairperson Rep. Weber.

HB 2029 Hearing Tomorrow @ 3:30pm

Heads up! There will be a hearing in the House Social Service Budget Committee tomorrow at 3:30pm regarding HB 2029 - a bill that seeks to permanently carve out I/DD long-term care from KanCare. Follow us on twitter @InterHab for updates during tomorrow's hearing!

You can help support your peers who testify at tomorrow's hearings by reminding your area legislators to support a permanent carve out of long-term I/DD services!  E-mail your legislators today!

Legislative Calendar: Feb. 19 - 22

HOUSE:

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 19TH

Social Service Budget @ 3:30 PM | 144-S
Recommendations – Department for Children and Families


WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 20TH

Education @ 1:30 PM |  RM 112-N
Hearing on HB 2263 – Enacting the school district special needs scholarship program


Health and Human Services @ 1:30 PM | RM 546-S
Final action on HB 2025 – Creating a joint committee on KanCare oversight

House Social Services Budget Committee @ 3:30pm | RM 144-S
HB 2029 - Permanent carve out of I/DD long-term care from KanCare


THURSDAY FEBRUARY 21ST

Education @ 1:30 PM | RM 112-N
Action on HB 2263 – Enacting the school district special needs scholarship program



SENATE:

TUESDAY FEBRUARY 19TH

Assessment and Taxation @ 9:30 AM | RM 548-S
Hearing on SB 189 – Income tax credit for expenditures to make dwelling or facility accessible for persons with a disability


WEDNESDAY FEBRUARY 20TH

Ways and Means @ 10:30 AM | RM 548-S
Subcommittee report on KDADS


Ways and Means Subcommittee on Administration & Capitol Improvements @ 3:30 PM | RM 546-S
Briefing on KDADS/state hospital capital improvements


THURSDAY FEBRUARY 21ST

Ways and Means @ 10:30 AM | RM 548-S
Subcommittee report on state hospitals

Sedgwick Co. Providers Weigh in on KanCare Pilots

Medical Providers Identify Issues in KanCare Transition

Kansas Medical Society and Kansas Medical Group Management Association request an extended  'continuity of care' period (currently set to expire after April 2nd).  The 'continuity of care' period was put in place to try and allow patent's current care plans to remain in tact while the state transitions services to the three managed care organizations administering KanCare.

In a letter to Susan Mosier, Director of Medicaid Services for Kansas, the above entities identified 26 ongoing issues related to KanCare transition.

Legislative Calendar: February 11 - 15

HOUSE:

Monday, February 11

Social Services Budget                  3:30 PM                RM 144-S

·         KDHE – agency overview, public testimony

Tuesday, February 12

Federal and State Affairs                                                             9:00 AM               RM 346-S

·         Hearing on HCR 5009 – raffles by non-profit organizations

Social Services Budget                                                                  3:30 PM                RM 144-S

·         KDHE –public testimony

Judiciary                                                                                              3:30 PM                RM 112-N

·         Hearing on HB 2188 – open records act; non-profit organizations

Wednesday, February 13

Appropriations                                                                                 9:00 AM               RM 112-N

·         Subcommittee reports on KNI, Parsons

Health and Human Services                                                       1:30 PM                RM 546-S

·         Hearing on HB 2025 – creating a joint committee on KanCare oversight

Thursday, February 14

Appropriations                                                                                 9:00 AM               RM 112-N

·         Subcommittee reports on KDHE, KDADS

Children and Families                                                                   9:00 AM               RM 218-N

·         Presentation by Rocky Nichols, DRC

Health and Human Services                                                       1:30 PM                RM 546-S

·         Hearing on HB 2025 – creating a joint committee on KanCare oversight

Friday, February 15

Federal and State Affairs                                                             9:00 AM               RM 346-S

·         Hearing on HB 2193 – public facilities; accessibility standards for disabled persons

SENATE:

Monday, February 11

Ethics, Elections and Local Gov.                                                9:30 AM               159-S

·         Hearing on SB 109 – lobbying; use of public funds prohibited

Wednesday, February 13

Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Services        3:30 PM                RM 548-S

·         KDADS – Agency presentation and public testimony

Thursday, February 14

Ways and Means Subcommittee on Social Services        3:30 PM                RM 548-S

·         KDADS – possible recommendations

Lakemary Center Shares KanCare Concerns

Well done Lakemary Center!  Bill Craig, President share's that Lakemary Center has recently take out loans to ensure payroll can be made for employees.  This need for additional funds has arisen due to delayed payments from KanCare insurance companies.

In addition, one KanCare beneficiary's mom shares her struggles accessing standard primary care appointments for her child with developmental disabilities.

Kaiser Health News Article: Kansas' Great Hope

Kaiser Health News' recent article states that "...KanCare is a multi-billion dollar gamble. The state has rolled the dice, and it will take months -- maybe even years -- to find out whether their bet pays off. "

It's time to remind legislators that the lives of Kansans with I/DD are not to be gambled with!  Urge your legislators to permanently carve out I/DD long-term care services from KanCare!

Send a message today to your legislators today!

 www.invisiblekansans.com.

Legislative Calendar Feb. 4 - 8

HOUSE:

Monday, February 4

Social Services Budget Committee                          3:30 PM                RM 144-S

·         DD State Hospitals – public testimony

Wednesday, February 6

Social Services Budget Committee                          3:30 PM                RM 144-S

·         DD community services budget – public testimony

Thursday, February 7

Social Services Budget Committee                          3:30 PM                RM 144-S

·         DD community services budget – public testimony

SENATE:

Wednesday, February 6

Ethics, Elections and Local Government                9:30 AM               RM 159-S

·         Hearing on SB 45 – Prohibition on use of state appropriated moneys to lobby state and local governments

KanCare Transition - How are things going?

When it comes to asking how the transition to KanCare is going, some Medicaid service providers claim "better than expected".  At a joint House and Senate health committee hearing last week, Lt. Gov. Jeff Colyer and other officials reported $18 million in financial savings and received positive reviews from many committee members.

But is this an accurate picture?  Check out the article below and share your thoughts with how KanCare is going for you - as a recipient or as a provider.

End the Wait Campaign Speaks Out on Governor's Budget

Check out the article below from the Lawrence Journal World that discusses the Governor's current budget proposals and their inadequacy in addressing the (chronically under-funded) waiting lists for children and adults in Kansas to receive services.

http://www2.ljworld.com/news/2013/jan/28/advocates-those-developmental-disabilities-say-bro/

KHI/KPR's "Can KanCare Deliver" Series Update

The following is a link to the complete collection of KHI/KPR audio segments, which provide an in-depth look at Medicaid services and how it affects Kansas citizens. They also provide a thorough overview of the Administration's KanCare program and examine it's effectiveness in other states and the progress of implementing new changes.



KHI News Service and Kansas Public Radio teamed up to create a 5-part series exploring Medicaid and KanCare entitled "Lower cost and better care: Can KanCare deliver?"

Legislative Calendar Jan. 21 - 25

HOUSE:

TUESDAY JANUARY 22

Appropriations                                 9:00 AM               RM 112-N

• Legislative Budget Committee interim recommendations continued – Legislative Research staff

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 23

Appropriations                                 9:00 AM               RM 112-N

• Update on KanCare – Legislative Research staff

Health and Human Services       1:30 PM                RM 546-S

• Discussion on KanCare oversight in conjunction with Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee

SENATE:

TUESDAY, JANUARY 22

Ways and Means                             10:30 AM             RM 548-S

• KanCare update/overview – Lt. Governor Jeff Colyer/KDHE/KDADS

KHI/KPR Ask: Can KanCare Deliver?

KHI News Service and Kansas Public Radio have teamed up to create a week-long series exploring Medicaid and KanCare entitled "Lower cost and better care: Can KanCare deliver?"

The following is a link to the initial two segments, which provide an excellent overview of the services Medicaid provides and why Medicaid is important to Kansas citizens. They also provide a thorough overview of the Administration's program to privatize Medicaid by using three insurance companies to manage the program.

Legislative Calendar: Jan. 15th - 18th

HOUSE:

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 16TH:

Appropriations                 9:30 AM               RM 112-N

• State budget overview – JG Scott

THURSDAY JANUARY 17TH:

Appropriations                 9:00 AM               RM 112-N

• Overview of Governor’s Budget Recommendation – Steve Anderson, Director of Budget
• Legislative Budget Committee interim recommendations – JG Scott

Children and Seniors     10:00 AM             RM 218-N

• Impact of KanCare on children and seniors – Kari Bruffett, KDHE

SENATE:

WEDNESDAY JANUARY 16TH:

Ways and Means             10:30 AM             RM 548-S
State budget overview – JG Scott


THURSDAY JANUARY 17TH:

Ways and Means             10:30 AM             RM 548-S

• Overview of Governor’s Budget Recommendation – Steve Anderson, Director of Budget
• Legislative Budget Committee interim recommendations – JG Scott

The 2013 - 2014 Legislative Session Begins

The 2013-2014 Kansas legislative session may be the most challenging of any yet witnessed by a host of Kansas public interests. Public employees, education and human service advocates – and others – are all uneasy as they anticipate the “perfect storm” that awaits them.

The 2012 legislature enacted over $700 million in tax cuts which the Governor quickly signed into law, thereby placing in jeopardy any chance for relief for underfinanced State budgets for this year or next, or in the worst case, for years into the future.  Add to that a recent court ruling which estimates that an additional $400+ million is needed for the State to comply with previous court rulings on school funding.  Add to that, for the disability networks, budgets will be impacted additionally by the influence of insurance companies who will be managing the State’s Medicaid budget.

The makeup of the newly elected legislature has tilted further to the conservative side of the spectrum, and this will be most markedly felt in the Senate, which last year had been dominated by a moderate GOP caucus which aligned with Democrats on key spending and social issues. That coalition was buried in the August primary election.  A large number of moderates were either defeated or retired and were replaced by more conservative candidates.

The Governor has indicated he will propose a two-year budget, designed as a new way to manage spending for the future. Critics have been quick to point out that such a plan also may be intended to eliminate any budget debate next year, when he will be up for reelection. Coincidentally, the most significant budget impacts of the dramatic draining of State revenues stream will be felt beginning in July of this year, and the outcry would focus itself in January of 2014 when the legislature returns for work – unless of course, there is no budget debate due to the Governor’s new “two-year” plan.

If that is not enough to make your head spin, consider the dynamics formed when trying to educate a legislature in which more than a third of the legislators are new, or will be in new offices (i.e. former House members now elected to the Senate).  And so on …

If you start to feel faint as you read this, don’t worry, that is a rational response to a budget debate unlike any we have ever had to face, with a legislative climate more conservative than any we have ever faced. Before you decide, like Rip Van Winkle, to sleep through it, hoping to wake in a new world of a brighter day, remember this ... however challenging this budget picture may be, we are not without some hopeful signs.

The administration has not yet proposed cuts for our budgets, and KDADS has gone so far as to recommend modest budget increases for waiting lists and rates. (NOTE: as this is being written, we have heard that the Secretary’s budget recommendations are not likely to be incorporated into the Governor’s budget recommendations, but, the fact that such increases were recommended will be a boost in our advocacy efforts.) Consider also that, owing to advocacy last year, we have a good number of legislators who are reasonably well informed about our official position that our long term services and supports programs be carved out of KanCare .. .considering that the shake-down cruise has begun,  and the good ship USS KanCare is already leaking in many places, legislators and the administration may be hesitant to pile any more responsibilities on board.

In other words, things are difficult ahead, but our strengths are still strong and we will play the strong hand as the session unfolds. You need to be ready to do the same.

Medicaid Managed Care Report from Robert Wood Johnson Foundation

From KHI News Service

Study: Benefits of Medicaid managed care unproven