1.Program Definition and Services
Nursing Facility Transition in Illinois helps individuals transition from nursing facilities to community-based settings. Services include:
- Outreach and education to nursing facility residents
- Comprehensive assessments of transition needs
- Transition coordination and planning
- Assistance with finding and securing housing
- Arranging for community-based services and supports
- Post-transition follow-up and monitoring
2. Regulations
The program is governed by:
- Colbert Consent Decree (for Cook County)
- Williams Consent Decree (for Specialized Mental Health Rehabilitation Facilities statewide)
- Illinois Statewide Transition Plan for Home and Community-Based Services
3. Licensing or Certification
No specific license is mentioned, but providers must be approved by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) or the Department of Human Services (IDHS).
4. Responsible State Agency
The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) oversees the Pathways to Community Living program, while IDHS manages the Comprehensive Class Member Transition Program.
5. Application Process
Providers interested in participating should:
- Contact HFS or IDHS to express interest in becoming a transition provider
- Complete required training and documentation
- Enter into a contract or grant agreement with the appropriate state agency
6. Required Documentation
Providers must submit:
- Proof of compliance with program requirements
- Staff qualifications and training records
- Policies and procedures for transition services
- Reporting and documentation systems
7. Timeline for Approval
The exact timeline for approval is not specified. Providers should contact HFS or IDHS for more detailed information on the approval process and expected timeframes.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. However, potential providers should familiarize themselves with the Consent Decrees and transition program requirements.
9. Pre-Application Training
Providers must complete training on:
- Consent Decree requirements
- Person-centered planning
- Community-based services and supports
- Housing resources and assistance
10. Additional Notes
- As of March 3, 2025, Maximus is contracted to provide outreach and assessment services for Colbert and Williams Class Members, with outreach visits beginning December 1, 2024, and transitional assessments starting in January 2025
- Transition coordinators from Centers for Independent Living, Case Coordination Units, and Mental Health providers are responsible for implementing the Pathways program
- Providers must ensure adequate staffing levels to transition all Class Members who choose to reside in the provider's geographic coverage area
- The Comprehensive Class Member Transition Program requires providers to meet annual transition targets
- Nursing facilities undergoing a change of ownership must submit an operations transition plan to ensure continuity of care during the transition process
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