Provider

Optimize staff resources (hours and utilization) and support persons-served better using today’s technology.

Demographic shifts will result in a growing divergence in the availability of caregivers and those who need care. As a result, the cost of caregivers will increase significantly over the next decade.

Technology solutions provide support that is less intrusive and more inclusive, all while increasing the overall quality of life in individuals served. Technology solutions can provide individuals with tools to help them control more of their life without direct intervention by caregivers. Reduced presence of caregivers encourages individuals to try and do more for themselves, learning and gaining self-confidence and independence.

As a hub of information, the Technology Resource Center serves as a guide to implement technology solutions—it all starts with a conversation.

Begin the process to:

  • Learn how to get started
  • Find out how it can be funded
  • See what other providers are doing
  • Engage and gain consensus from family and staff

The Conversation for Providers

The conversation is a collaboration between providers, case managers, families, and individuals to explore how using technology can increase independence and safety of the individual supported.

Not only does the addition of technology supports provide increased independence for those receiving care, but is also beneficial (and will become necessary in the future) in optimizing staff resources by extending care worker reach. Through technology implementation, the level of care provided is maintained, or possibly improved, while managing limited staff resources.

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The Planning for Providers

Planning is a continuation of the conversation held between individuals, families, case managers, and providers to finalize the technology solutions that will increase the independence and safety of the person supported. During the planning phase, a formal exploration of possible technology solutions occurs. There are likely several options that will not only meet the needs of the individual, but will also help in extending the reach of staff.

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The Funding for Providers

Providers should work directly with case managers to ensure the proper funding is selected. The case manager and their network should be a good source of knowledge regarding specific waivers and what is allowable. However, providers should not rely solely on case managers to have all of the specific waiver and funding information. It is important to go above and beyond and learn what is and what is not allowable under certain rate systems.

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The Implementation for Providers

From initial conversations to exploring individual technology support options, the team has worked diligently and thoughtfully to build a plan that focuses on the needs and wishes of the individual supported—both their safety and security as well as desired lifestyle goals.

Now that the technology supports have been assessed and agreed upon, it is time to physically put the solutions in place and move forward with their utilization.

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The Measurement for Providers

Measuring the success of technology supports put in place is an important step in the implementation process. When measuring, providers should not only consider the greater independence level of the person supported, but the financial impact as well.

Measurement should occur often enough that adjustments may be easily made, but not so frequently that the process becomes overwhelming. Within the first year, measurement may occur every three months, and then move to every six months or once a year as the plan is fine-tuned to the individual.

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