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A Path for ME and OADS logo

Maine SIS Program: OADS and Maximus Move Toward Mid-Spring 2023 Supports Intensity Scale (SIS-A) Needs Assessments Launch | SIS Process Overview | Volunteer Members Sought for Training Assessments | Program Resources

The State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) is implementing a new needs assessment for all Section 21 and 29 members. This assessment will be a requirement for members who want to participate in the new *“A Path for ME” Lifespan Project planned for 2025*.

Read below for an overview of the SIS-A assessment process, including a timeline, reminders about initial training assessments, helpful resources, and program support contacts.

 

“A Path for ME” SIS- A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline

SIS-A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline

*PROCESS OVERVIEW: Basics of the SIS-A Assessment*

 

*Before the Assessment *

A scheduler will contact the case manager and guardian (if applicable) to schedule the assessment.  They will ask for a date, time, and location that works best. The scheduler will also ask if others should be invited to the assessment. Those who participate in the assessment are called respondents.

The SIS requires at least two qualified respondents. A qualified respondent must have known the person for 3+ months and be able to speak to their day-to-day support needs. Respondents will talk about the types of supports the member needs to be successful. They must attend for the whole assessment. It can take 2 to 3 hours.

OADS needs to ensure the best results from the SIS-A and respect  the member’s privacy.  It is critical to have the attention of all respondents during the assessment. This means that the interview excludes the use of any outside electronics.  Examples of these devices are cell phones, laptops, or recording devices.

*During the Assessment *

The interviewer will explain the process to everyone at the assessment. It’s important that the member attend, if only part of the time. There will be occasions when the member cannot attend.  If this happens, the interviewer will schedule a time to meet them in person prior to the assessment.

*After the Assessment *

Once the assessment is completed, members will:


* Get their SIS-A results from case manager, by e-mail or mail.

* Get ready for their Person-Centered Planning meetings.

* Attend their Person-Centered Planning meetings.

The person-centered information gathered during the assessment process will assist case managers and case management providers.  It will provide them with greater clarity around members’ day-to-day support needs.

Case managers can use the information from the SIS assessment.  It will assist with greater understanding around the frequency and type of support needed. Information from the SIS assessment may also assist with developing goals.

  

*REMINDER: Currently Seeking Members to Volunteer for Training Assessments*

As shared previously, there is an initial training phase for SIS assessors from February 1 through March 15, 2023. During this period, $100 stipends may be provided to participating members and up to two nonpaid assessment respondents, such as family members and friends.

If you know a member who would be interested in volunteering to participate in a training assessment, call the Help Desk: 833.771.4639 or email: [email protected] with the subject line, “Member interested in SIS training assessment participation”.

 

*TOOLKIT: SIS Resources*


* OADS Presentation: Orientation to “A Path for ME” Needs Assessment | Download [ [link removed] ]  
* OADS Website: Learn more about “A Path for ME” Needs Assessments and the SIS-A Implementation Project | Learn more [ [link removed] ]
* American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) | Explore the SIS-A and review support guides [ [link removed] ]
* SIS Assessments – FAQs | Download [ [link removed] ] 

 

*SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk*

Do you have other SIS assessment related questions? Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

Phone: 833.771.4639  

Email: [email protected]

Program updates and support information are also available on the OADS website [ [link removed] ], as well as the newly launched Maximus – Maine SIS Assessments tools and resources page [ [link removed] ]. Bookmark these helpful sites and check back to them for frequent updates in the months ahead.

 

*Sign up for the SIS Assessment Mailing Lists: *

Review the instructions and click one or both links below to stay updated on all the latest program updates and new resources available.

*Receive program updates from Maximus:* Send an email to: [email protected]. Use the subject line “Add to the Maine SIS Mailing List” and include the following information in the body of your message for all members of your team who should be added to the mailing list: full name, title, facility/organization, email address.

*Receive program updates from OADS:* Go to the Office of Aging and Disability Services | Department of Health and Human Services (maine.gov) [ [link removed] ] website and enter your email address in the available field to Receive Updates by Email. You will see options listed for various State offices and programs. Select the checkboxes for the OADS information most relevant to you, then follow the prompts to complete your mailing list setup.

 

*LEARN MORE: Who is Maximus? *

Maximus has extensive experience partnering with state, federal and local governments to administer conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions. This includes current management of the State of Maine – Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs. 

Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities. [ [link removed] ]

 

*About Maximus*

For over 40 years, Maximus has partnered with state, federal and local governments across the country. We administer complex programs that provide individuals with the appropriate care and resources necessary to improve their quality of life. The company has extensive experience in conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities. Maximus currently manages the State of Maine – Assessment Services Agency (ASA), an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs.

 

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