1. Program Definition and Services
Group home services in Alaska provide residential habilitation services to individuals 18 years of age or older in a licensed assisted living home for two or more residents. Services include:
- 24-hour care and supervision
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Support to acquire, retain, and improve self-help and adaptive skills
2. Regulations
Group home services are governed by:
- Alaska Administrative Code (AAC) 7 AAC 130.265
- Alaska Statutes AS 47.32 (for assisted living home licensing)
3. Licensing or Certification
Group homes must be licensed as assisted living homes under AS 47.32.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, Division of Health Care Services, oversees licensing and regulation of group homes.
5. Application Process
Providers must complete the assisted living home licensing application process through the Division of Health Care Services.
6. Required Documentation
Required documentation includes:
- Completed licensing application
- Current State of Alaska business license
- Staff plan describing employee numbers and responsibilities
- Disaster preparedness and emergency evacuation plan
- Policies and procedures for service delivery
- Proof of staff training and qualifications
7. Timeline for Approval
The specific timeline for approval is not mentioned in the provided information.
8. Pre-Application Process
No specific pre-application process is mentioned.
9. Pre-Application Training
While no specific pre-application training is mentioned, providers must ensure staff are trained to meet residents' needs as defined in their residential services contracts and assisted living plans.
10. Additional Notes
- Group home habilitation services are subject to limitations on day habilitation services.
- Services rendered by group home staff, whether in the home or community, cannot be billed separately as day habilitation services.
- As of February 2025, care coordinators must demonstrate in the recipient's support plan that the group home is appropriate for the recipient.
- The department may limit the number of recipients in a group home to ensure health, safety, and welfare.
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