Unified Contract Services (UCS)
3/27/08
Table of Contents
Introduction ……………………………………………………………………. Page 3
Framework for Performance Indicators …………………………………….. Page 4
Entry Services .......……………………………………………………………… Page 5
Assessment Services.……………………….…………..……………………….. Page 9
Assistive Technology/Rehabilitation Technology Services …………………… Page 13
Work Readiness Services ……………………………......................................... Page 15
Job Placement …………………………………………………………………… Page 19
Driver Rehabilitation Services …………………………………………………. Page 22
Adjunct Services ………………………………………………………………… Page 25
INTRODUCTION
VESID has undertaken a comprehensive effort to develop improved contracts for service providers. VESID has been able to raise contract rates for purchased services, more clearly define services and develop new services. This initiative has been undertaken to: better serve consumers with disabilities; assist them in becoming gainfully employed; and more accurately compensate the provider community for services they are providing to VESID. As part of the development of provider proposals, the following are detailed in the RFP.
1. Service Categories: In the following document, references to the New York State Education Department’s Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities (VESID) Core UCS Services include all items Pages 5 - 25 and exclude those activities listed under Adjunct Services. Adjunct services are defined as those activities which supplement the delivery of the core UCS programs by providing those additional services/supports which the consumer requires for successful Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) goal achievement and are purchased by VESID only in conjunction with other VESID IPE services.
2. Duration of Services: The standard time frames for service delivery for each service category have been delineated within the definitions. As is consistent with current VESID practice, if the unique needs of a specific consumer require a different service duration, these time frames will be discussed and modified for that consumer by VESID. However, providers developing service proposals must adhere to the standard time frames in outlining their service delivery plan.
3. Staffing:
a. All applicant agencies must have either appropriate staffing in place to meet the standards outlined in this document or agree to put such staffing in place by the time of actual service delivery.
b. It is recognized that staff turnover is an inevitable feature in provider operations. When VESID required staffing is no longer available for delivery of an ongoing service, the provider is required to notify the VESID District Office(s) involved, and provide a staffing plan proposal for continuance of services. Upon approval of the staffing plan by VESID’s Central Office Service Delivery Unit, the provider may continue service delivery for a mutually agreed upon period of time, not to exceed one year.
c. In addition to the staffing requirements specified for each VESID Core UCS Service component, it is required that each vendor, with the exception of those providing freestanding (non-agency related) placement services, have an individual overseeing the operation of VESID reimbursed vocational services, who holds at least a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling, or a Bachelor’s Degree and at least four years relevant experience delivering vocational services to individuals with disabling conditions.
4. Reporting: VESID will be working with providers to standardize reporting formats whenever possible. Streamlined reporting forms will shorten vendor reporting time and expedite payment turnaround time. In support of this process, the timely submission of reports and/or verifying documentation will be required for payment.
5. Deaf Services: Under development
FRAMEWORK FOR PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
VESID has made a comprehensive effort to develop an improved contracting process for service providers. Included in these efforts is the implementation of a system to track key performance indicators for the contracted services. The new UCS system will enable VESID to be more flexible in its contracting process and to be more responsive to consumer needs. The performance indicators are critical in assisting VESID in making informed decisions in the development of additional providers and the allocation of resources within the contracting system. This system will:
§ Enhance consumers’ informed choice of providers from whom they wish to receive services;
§ Provide VESID counseling staff with critical information on key performance areas for providers from whom they seek to purchase services;
§ Enable District Offices to oversee and allocate contract dollars to better serve consumers; and,
§ Provide information to providers to improve services and set the expected level of performance for VESID contracted services.
In year one of the services awarded through this RFP, VESID will utilize a system of measures that relies upon internal data. For subsequent years, further performance indicators are under development including, but not limited to: vendor self-assessment within the first two years of services; a mechanism for determining consumer satisfaction; and, VESID staff assessment. Indicators will be developed in two major categories:
1. Outcomes
VESID’s goal is to enable its consumers to attain employment. Accordingly, a provider’s performance will be assessed based on key indicators such as but not limited to: number of consumers completing the specific contracted program; reports that meet the requirements of the referral; the percent of consumers successfully rehabilitated (90 days of employment), hours of work per week, hourly compensation at closure, benefits in employment and consistency of employment with a consumer’s vocational goal. A protocol has been established for consumers who do not participate in a scheduled appointment for services by which this indicator will be measured when the provider is not responsible for delays.
2. Timeframes
Timeliness of service is the second major area of performance by which a provider’s service will be assessed. As part of this RFP, VESID has established minimum standard timelines in which consumers will access services and the District Offices will receive required reports resulting from those contracted services. These standards are established for all service categories in the UCS contracting system and are contained in this RFP material.
Over the course of the next year, VESID will work with its contract agencies to formalize a set of Provider Guidelines for UCS service delivery. This material will assist agencies in the achievement of their performance indicators, and in bringing VESID consumers to their employment goals.
ENTRY SERVICES
Definition:
Individuals with disabilities are assisted by providers with initial activities for entry into VESID services, thereby expediting the application process, and expanding the potential number of individuals to be served by VESID. This assistance may include general orientation services and/or gathering and preparing information necessary for the VESID counselor to determine eligibility.
Services:
These services may be delivered in any of the three methods described below, based upon the extent of the assistance offered by the provider and requested by the District Office. Either Level II or Level III services may be offered in combination with Level I service, at the discretion of the requesting District Office.
Level I:
ENTRY SERVICE 1 (Services to Groups) - This is an orientation to VESID services to potential VESID consumers. It provides a general orientation to VESID and the vocational rehabilitation (VR) process and may include
This service requires vendor staff participation in training provided by VESID, utilization of VESID information script and materials, and is scheduled only by prior arrangement with the VESID District Office purchasing the service. This service may be a stand alone service or the initial service in combination with other levels of entry services, as noted below. It may be provided at the provider’s location, the VESID District Office, school districts, One-Stop Centers, or other community locations.
Deliverables and Payment Process: This is a “Service to Groups,” of individuals not yet active with VESID. Payment occurs upon submission of a roster of individuals participating in the session, and a standard voucher form.
Staffing: Entry Services 1 providers must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a minimum of one year of experience in providing employment services to persons who have disabling conditions;
§ knowledge of the local and community resources available to individuals with disabilities;
§ supervision by an individual with at least a minimum of two years experience in providing services to persons who have disabling conditions; and,
§ experience with presentations to large groups.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per session at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $250.00
§ Region 2 - $225.00
§ Region 3 - $238.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ effective presentation of VESID Program;
§ orientation location is accessibility to all individuals with disabilities; and,
§ language barriers are eliminated.
Performance Indicators Under Development:
§ individual consumer confidentiality will be maintained
Level II:
ENTRY SERVICE II - In this service, the vendor will aid consumers who* :
§ are not able to complete the application process without assistance; and,
§ do not have other available supports to help them to gather existing medical information.
The vendor will develop the application information specified by the local District Office, and gather the medical, diagnostic, and other information required be submitted to VESID in order to make a decision regarding the applicant’s eligibility for VESID services. It is not expected that the provider of this service will purchase any assessment and/or medical evaluations necessary for eligibility determination. The vendor will work with the local District Office if additional VESID medical authorizations are needed to provide consumer information for required VESID eligibility and goal planning.
Deliverables and Payment Process: This is an outcome-based service that is paid when the vendor has gathered all the requested documentation and sufficient medical information has been submitted to VESID in order to make an eligibility determination and transmitted it to the local VESID office. The vendor may also prepare written documentation for VESID Draft Eligibility and Background case notes and perform documentation, i.e., data entry, etc., within the CaMS system as requested by the purchasing District Office.
Staffing: Entry Services II providers must have a minimum of a:
§ Bachelor’s degree in a related field and one year of qualifying experience providing direct services beyond routine personal care or supervision to individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation program or facility, or providing vocational and educational services to individuals with disabilities in the areas of assessment, counseling, job coaching, guidance, placement, or job development;
OR
§ an Associates degree or 60 college credits; and, two year’s experience in service delivery to individuals with disabling conditions;
OR
§ a combination of education and four years of experiencing of qualifying experience providing direct services beyond routine personal care or supervision to individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation program or facility, or providing vocational and educational services individuals with disabilities in the areas of assessment, counseling, job coaching, guidance, placement, or job development, which in the judgment of VESID reviewers is substantially equivalent to the standards above.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is a flat rate payable upon completion of the service:
§ Region 1 - $250.00
§ Region 2 - $225.00
§ Region 3 - $238.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time between initial consumer contact and complete application packet – standard 45 days; and,
§ number of consumers that are appropriately evaluated for eligibility/ineligibility (75 percent).
*NOTE: This service is not intended for individuals currently active with the provider for whom sufficient referral information is currently retained by that provider. These cases may be referred to VESID through the standard referral process.
Level III:
ENTRY SERVICE III - In this service, the vendor will aid individuals with disabilities who:
§ are not able to complete the application process without assistance;
§ do not have sufficient medical/diagnostic information available to establish VESID eligibility; and,
§ do not have other available supports to help them in acquiring the needed medical/diagnostic information for eligibility and goal planning.
The provider will obtain, at their own expense, all medical, diagnostic, and other information required be submitted to VESID in order to make a decision regarding the applicant’s eligibility for VESID service. The provider will also develop the application information specified by the local District Office prior to submitting the application and supporting documentation packet to VESID. The vendor may also prepare written documentation for VESID Draft Eligibility and Background case notes, and perform documentation within the CaMS system as requested by the purchasing District Office.
Deliverables and Payment: This is an outcome-based service that is paid when the vendor has gathered the all requested documentation and sufficient medical/diagnostic information to make an eligibility determination and transmitted it to the local VESID office.
Staffing: Entry Services III providers must have:
§ a staff member with a Master's degree in vocational rehabilitation or related area such as personnel, counseling, guidance, and one year of experience in vocational rehabilitation or other suitable fields supervising this Level III, Entry Service;
OR
§ a Bachelor’s degree and one year of qualifying experience providing direct services beyond routine personal care or supervision to individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation program or facility, or providing vocational and educational services to learning disabled adults or learning disabled adolescents in the areas of assessment, counseling, job coaching, guidance, placement, or job development;
OR
§ an Associate’s Degree or 60 college credit hours and 2 years of qualifying experience providing direct services beyond routine personal care or supervision to individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation program or facility, or providing vocational and educational services to individuals with disabilities in the areas of assessment, counseling, job coaching, guidance, placement, or job development;
OR
§ four years of qualifying experience providing direct services beyond routine personal care or supervision to individuals with disabilities in a rehabilitation program or facility, or providing vocational and educational services to individuals with disabilities in the areas of assessment, counseling, job coaching, guidance, placement, or job development.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is a flat rate payable upon completion of the service:
§ Region 1 - $550.00
§ Region 2 - $495.00
§ Region 3 - $523.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time between initial consumer contact and complete application packet – standard 45 days; and,
§ number of consumers that are appropriately evaluated for eligibility/ineligibility – standard 90 percent.
ASSESSMENT SERVICES
NOTE: These definitions do not apply to the types of assessment needed for assistive technology, vehicle or home modifications, medical evaluations, or to those services covered under contractual arrangements with Psychologists.
Definition:
Assessment services are designed to obtain information that will help clarify VESID eligibility questions, and/or assist both the consumer and VESID counselor in the development of an appropriate IPE goal. Assessment information evaluates consumer skills, aptitudes, interests, capacities, behaviors, work readiness and functional limitations and provides suggested vocational options in keeping with these findings. It may include an appraisal of the patterns of work behavior of the individual and services needed for the individual to acquire occupational skills and to develop work attitudes, work habits, work tolerance, and work related behaviors necessary for successful job performance. The product of assessment services is a personalized report highlighting the testing/community assessment results as they apply to the individual consumer’s vocational capacities, functional limitations and potential employment options.
Services:
Level I:
ASSESSMENT SERVICE A - Diagnostic Vocational Evaluation - DVE - Evaluation in agency setting or locale associated with provider agency (for example, but not limited to, enclave, mobile crew, affirmative business). This service is primarily observational, with a focus on work readiness, and some skill identification. The service may include standardized work samples and may be done on a group basis. The standard authorization period is up to 15 days.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 15 days in an agency setting at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $64.00
§ Region 2 - $58.00
§ Region 3 - $61.00
ASSESSMENT SERVICE B - Community Based Situational Assessment - CBA - This service is similar to DVE but in a community-based setting. It provides actual hands-on work and supervision as well as direct observations by the provider staff /evaluator. This service may be done on a group basis. Standard authorization period is up to 5 days.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of the service, the provider will prepare and submit a report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. The provider will be paid based on completion of a Vocational Assessment Service report approved by the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor (VRC). The provider must offer the VRC the opportunity to attend a conference at conclusion of the service. Dropouts will be prorated based on receipt of a partial report and number of days service was provided. For consumers who do not complete the service, the provider will report on what information they were able to obtain during the period of consumer participation.
Staffing: Individuals providing this service must meet the qualifications in the Commissioner’s Regulations for the title Evaluator I, below. Additionally, individuals with this title shall be directly supervised by an Evaluator II who meets the qualifications described in the Level II services.
Evaluator I minimum qualifications:
§ Master's degree in vocational rehabilitation counseling or related area such as personnel, counseling and guidance;
OR
§ Bachelor's degree, enrollment in a specialized course, and enrollment in a Master's degree program in vocational rehabilitation or related areas;
OR
§ combination of education and experience which, in the judgment of the Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities, is substantially equivalent to the standards of this subdivision.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 5 days in an agency or community-based setting at a rate of:
§ Region 1 - $64.00
§ Region 2 - $58.00
§ Region 3 - $61.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of services - standard 21 days; and
§ amount of time from commencement of assessment to receipt of report - standard 25 days.
Level II:
COMMUNITY-BASED WORKPLACE ASSESSMENTS (CBWA) - Customized worksite evaluations in the community. The sites for this process are actual employer worksites, not agency based. The provider develops a work evaluation site according to the interests and employment factors of the consumer. If indicated, provider may arrange for two different work sites if that is needed for evaluation purposes. The evaluator accompanies the individual to the worksite in order to observe and assist the employer as needed. This evaluation gives the individuals experience in an actual worksite and provides hands-on work and supervision, as well as direct observations by the evaluator. The evaluator may also interview significant others (family, teacher, and spouse) relative to individual consumer capacity information. This service is done on an individual basis. The standard authorization period is up to 10 days.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of the service, provider will prepare and submit a report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. The provider will be paid based on completion of a Vocational Assessment Service report approved by the VRC. The provider must offer the VRC the opportunity to attend a conference at the conclusion of the service. This service is reimbursed based on completion and submission of the Vocational Assessment Service Report.
For consumers for whom a more limited evaluation is needed, a proportional number of days of service will be agreed upon with the referring VESID counselor, and the provider will report on the focus area of the evaluation.
For consumers who do not complete the service, the provider will report on what information they were able to obtain during the period of consumer participation.
Staffing: Individuals providing this service must meet the qualifications in the Commissioner’s regulations for the title Evaluator I, below. Additionally, individuals with this title shall be directly supervised by an Evaluator II who meets the qualifications described in the Level III services.
Evaluator II Minimum qualifications:
§ Master's degree in vocational rehabilitation or related area such as personnel, counseling, guidance and one year of experience in vocational rehabilitation or other suitable fields;
OR
§ Bachelor's degree and three years of appropriate experience in services to individuals with disabilities;
OR
§ combination of experience and training, such as experience as evaluator in a community rehabilitation program: or experience in industry and completion of specialized rehabilitation-related courses which, in the judgment of the Office of Vocational and Educational Services for Individuals with Disabilities, is substantially equivalent to the standards of this subdivision.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 10 days at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $103.00
§ Region 2 - $93.00
§ Region 3 - $98.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from initial referral to commencement of assessment - standard 21 days; and,
§ amount of time from commencement of assessment to receipt of report - standard 20 days.
Level III:
STANDARDIZED TESTING/SPECIALIZED EVALUATIONS –
Standardized Testing A - measures a consumer's academic achievement, aptitudes, cognitive abilities, personality, vocational interests, sensory/motor skills and compares the individual's performance with an appropriate sample population. This service is done on an individual basis. This service would utilize standardized, computerized or other assessment system including but not limited to: Strong Interest Inventory, Jackson Vocational Interest Survey, and WAIS III, MESA/Valpar, work samples, such as CareerScope, OASYS, Apticom, JEVS, McCarron-Dial or any commonly recognized and validated system.
Specialized Evaluations B - This form of evaluation addresses an area specific to the impact of the consumer’s disability on vocational functioning and often addresses specific questions. It is performed by an individual with appropriate credentials to assess that area. Examples include Functional Capacity evaluations, or Substance Abuse Assessments. These evaluations do not include nor replace those provided by medical/psychological personnel and are purchased at the prevailing rate within the community, as needed for individual consumer eligibility determination /assessment.
The standard authorization for this service is up to 10 hours. Additional hours may be provided based on individual consumer need with pre-approval by the VESID Counselor.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of the service, the provider will prepare and submit the report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. The provider will be paid based on completion of a Vocational Assessment Service report approved by the VRC. The provider must offer the VRC the option of attending a conference at conclusion of the service. This service is reimbursed based on completion and submission of the assessment report.
For consumers for whom a more limited evaluation is needed, a proportional number of hours will be agreed upon with the referring VESID counselor, and provider will report on the focus area of the evaluation. For consumers who do not complete the service, the provider will report on what information they were able to obtain during period of consumer participation.
Staffing: Evaluator III minimum qualifications:
§ Master's degree in vocational rehabilitation or related area such as personnel, counseling, guidance and one year of experience in vocational rehabilitation or other suitable fields;
OR
§ Bachelor's degree and three years of appropriate experience in services to individuals with disabilities;
OR
§ combination of experience and training; such as experience as evaluator in a community rehabilitation programs: or experience in industry and completion of specialized rehabilitation-related courses which, in the judgment of the Office of Vocational and Educational Service for Individuals with Disabilities, is substantially equivalent to the standards of this subdivision; and,
§ certification as an administrator of any instrument(s) utilized that requires such designation; or, certification in the field in which a Specialized Assessment is performed, such as an OTR, Certified Alcoholism Counselor, etc.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for Standarized Testing and Specialized Evaluations is per hour with a standard authorization of up to 10 hours at the rate of:
Established Performance Indicators
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of assessment - standard 21 days; and,
§ amount of time from commencement of assessment to receipt of report - standard 14 days.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY/
REHABILITATION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES –
NOTE : This service does NOT include evaluations related to vehicle use and modifications. See page 25 for those services.
EVALUATION
Definition:
This is an evaluation to determine the need for assistive/rehabilitation technology services to mitigate the impact of the individual’s functional limitations, to enhance the capacity to participate in Vocational Rehabilitation Services, and achieve the Individualized Plan for Employment (IPE) employment outcome. The standard authorization for this service is up to 20 hours. Additional hours may be provided based on individual consumer need with pre-approval by the VESID Counselor.
Services:
This service includes all evaluations that are used to determine the practicality and effectiveness of using rehabilitation technology, as well as the identification of any indicated assistive devices and related services. It encompasses recommendations for types of rehab technology, specifications, advantages of potential options, and the cost/benefits of those options. Assistive/rehabilitation technology evaluations clearly describe how the device or service will address functional limitations in terms of participation in training and/or employment outcomes.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of the service, the provider will prepare and submit the report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. The provider will be paid based on completion of an Assistive/Rehabilitation Technology Evaluation Report approved by the VRC. The provider must offer the VRC the option of attending a conference at the conclusion of the service. This service is reimbursed based on completion and submission of the assessment report.
For consumers for whom a more limited evaluation is needed, a proportional number of hours will be agreed upon with the referring VESID counselor, and the provider will report on the focus area of the evaluation. For consumers who do not complete the service, the provider will report on what information they were able to obtain during the period of consumer participation.
Staffing: The qualifications of persons or organizations conducting evaluations or providing assistive technology for VESID will be approved on the basis of education, experience, ability to work successfully with individuals with disabilities, and the ability to provide comprehensive reports of findings and recommendations which will be the basis for the development of a plan for assistive/rehabilitation technology services. Such individuals must:
§ have successfully attained skills and knowledge in the delivery of rehabilitation technology services;
§ document successful experiences in providing rehabilitation technology services to individuals with disabilities in their area of expertise;
§ demonstrate the ability to assess and deliver rehabilitation technology services and communicate the results effectively orally and in writing in a clear, concise, logical and objective manner; and,
§ maintain adequate liability insurance.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per hour with a standard authorization of up to 20 hours at a rate of (under development):
§ Region 1 - $80.00
§ Region 2 - $80.00
§ Region 3 - $80.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of evaluation – standard 21 days; and,
§ amount of time from commencement of evaluation to receipt of report – standard 21 days.
TRAINING
Definition:
This is a process of providing instruction to an individual on how to use the assistive technology/rehabilitation technology device(s) or service(s). The intended outcome is that the individual, upon completion of the training, will be able to effectively utilize the device(s) or service(s) to achieve their employment goal.
Services:
Deliverables and Payment Process: Training must be completed with the appropriate assistive technology/rehabilitation technology device(s) or service(s) matched to the individual’s needs. The training should develop full user competency with the respective device(s) or service(s). The training is based on the assistive technology/rehabilitation technology evaluation report provided by a qualified service provider. Standard authorization for this service is up to 20 hours. Additional hours may be provided based on individual consumer need with pre-approval by the VESID Counselor.
Staffing: The qualifications of persons or organizations conducting training or providing rehabilitation technology for VESID will be approved on the basis of education, experience, the ability to work successfully with individuals with disabilities, and the ability to provide comprehensive reports of findings and recommendations, upon which to develop a plan for rehabilitation technology services. Such individuals must:
§ have successfully attained skills and knowledge in the delivery of rehabilitation technology services;
§ document successful experiences in providing rehabilitation technology services to individuals with disabilities in their area of expertise;
§ demonstrate the ability to assess and deliver rehabilitation technology services and communicate the results effectively orally and in writing in a clear, concise, logical and objective manner; and,
§ maintain adequate liability insurance.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment is per hour with a standard authorization of up to 20 hours at (under development):
§ Region 1 - $80.00
§ Region 2 - $80.00
§ Region 3 - $80.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of service – standard 21 days
WORK READINESS SERVICES
Definition:
Consumers are assisted by providers in training for job-related skills. Work Readiness Services include components that enable the consumer to successfully develop the following individual capacities for achieving and maintaining employment: work behaviors, social skills in the work setting, effective communication, accepting supervision, problem solving, grooming and hygiene, goal setting and work hardening/tolerance.
Other areas of concern may also be addressed including work-related daily living skills, disability awareness, work traits and work ethics, which may be provided as part of IPE development (Level I below) or as an IPE service. This training always includes a focus on acquisition of the requisite “soft skills” applicable across a variety of employment settings. The higher levels of this service also include development of vocational skill sets focused on specific fields of employment. While typically provided in a group setting, these vocational adjustment services may be provided one-on-one. At the highest level of this service (Level III), the provider is required to place and support the consumer throughout the 90-day post employment period leading up to VESID case closure.
Services:
These services may be delivered in a community-based facility or, where possible, in an integrated community setting. At the highest level of the service, there is a requirement for placement and short term training in an employment site. Delivery of these services is dependent upon the development of a training curriculum that is then approved by the VESID District Office(s) utilizing the service.
Counselors should select the needed level of Work Readiness training identified in the IPE with the understanding that the higher levels of training include all the elements of the preceding level(s). If, following services at a lower level, it is determined the consumer is able to progress to a higher level than previously anticipated, the authorization for that subsequent level should be of a shorter duration, as agreed upon with the provider. These training services can be authorized as follows in the three modules listed below:
Level I:
WORK READINESS SERVICES 1 - This service is a defined set of activities that lead to the acquisition of specific “soft” skills by the individual. They are primarily focused on tasks such as learning acceptable work and social conduct in the workplace, the culture of the workplace, preparing a resume, motivation for work and maintaining a job, and other life skills that are generic in scope such as, but not limited to, daily living skills, disability awareness, transportation and home health management that are applicable across a variety of employment settings.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of approved Level I Work Readiness Services, the provider will prepare and submit a report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. Such reports shall indicate the type of services provided and the individual's progress acquiring soft skills, which will support the development of an employment goal. The unit of service is a minimum of a five-hour day and can be billed in half units (2.5 hours) if necessary. The standard authorization period for this service is up to 20 days.
Staffing: Staff providing this service must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a varied and successful work history in competitive employment settings;
§ knowledge of employer expectations of employee performance and workplace behaviors;
§ knowledge of VESID reporting requirements; and,
§ a minimum of two years experience in providing vocational services to persons who have disabling conditions or other significant barriers to employment.
Work Readiness Service providers must be supervised by an individual having at least a Bachelor’s level degree in an appropriate human services/human resources field, OR at least four year’s experience in the provision of work readiness services. Staff must also take part in ongoing training and staff development activities associated with the provision of services to individuals with disabilities.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 20 days at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $40.00
§ Region 2 - $36.00
§ Region 3 - $38.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of service – standard 21 days; and,
§ amount of time from commencement of service to receipt of report - standard 30 days.
Performance Indicators Under Development
WORK EXPERIENCE DEVELOPMENT (New Code Needed) – This service is designed to enlist the assistance of a community provider to aid is securing a employer-based on-the-job training (OJT), work tryout (WT), work study for in-school youth or internship/externship opportunity for our consumers. The vendor would be responsible for setting up the work experience, monitoring consumer progress and making the arrangements for required paperwork with the employer. This service is designed to provide VESID consumers with real work experiences and opportunities to network in actual business environments consistent with their vocational goals. It can be a stand alone service or may be packaged with other placement services.
Deliverables and Payment Process: The vendor has established the actual OJT, WTO, work study or internship/externship with a community-based employer. The vendor will set up and be paid for the service under this code and VESID would fund the actual OJT, WTO, work study or internship/externship using the existing service options.
Staffing: Work Readiness Service providers must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a varied and successful work history in competitive employment settings;
§ knowledge of employer expectations of performance and employee behaviors;
§ knowledge of VESID reporting requirements; and,
§ a minimum of two years experience in providing vocational services to persons who have disabling conditions or other significant barriers to employment
Work Readiness service providers must be supervised by an individual having at least a Bachelor’s level degree in an appropriate human services/human resources field, OR at least four year’s experience in provision of Work Readiness services. Staff must also take part in ongoing training and staff development activities associated with the provision of services to individuals with disabilities.
Payment Rate and Authorization: This is a flat fee service with 25 percent payable following the initial authorization and 75 percent payable at the time the vendor reports that the work experience has been secured at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $500.00
§ Region 2 - $450.00
§ Region 3 - $475.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of services – standard 21 days; and,
§ amount of time from commencement of services to secured work experience and receipt of final report – standard 30 days.
Performance Indicators Under Development
Level II:
WORK READINESS SERVICES 2 (New Code Needed) - In addition to the soft skills of Level I, listed above, this service is a defined set of activities that lead to development of skills for a specific career outcome (e.g. training in retail sales, utility worker, or other generic job areas) consistent with consumer IPE goals and locally available employment opportunities. The training is primarily at the provider’s training facility or may be at a community site and not applicable for licensure by SED’s Bureau of Proprietary School Supervision. The skills acquired must be appropriate for entry level work in the field of preparation and/or transferable to other job areas. The expected vocational service outcome must be consistent with an individual’s IPE.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of approved Level II Work Readiness Services, the provider will prepare and submit a report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. Such reports shall indicate the type of services provided and the individual's progress toward the employment outcomes specified in the IPE, be in a format approved by the agency, and submitted at intervals designated by the agency. The unit of service is a minimum of a five-hour day and can be billed in half units if necessary. The standard authorization period for this service is up to 40 days. Authorizations for consumers who have previously participated in Level I services with the same provider should be reduced accordingly. Progress report will be provided at mid-point and at conclusion of service.
Staffing: Work Readiness Service providers must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a varied and successful work history in competitive employment settings;
§ knowledge of employer expectations of performance and employee behaviors;
§ knowledge of VESID reporting requirements; and,
§ a minimum of two years experience in providing vocational services to persons who have disabling conditions or other significant barriers to employment.
Work Readiness service providers must be supervised by an individual having at least a Bachelor’s level degree in an appropriate human services/human resources field, OR at least four year’s experience in the provision of Work Readiness services. Staff must also take part in ongoing training and staff development activities associated with the provision of services to individuals with disabilities.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 40 days at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $45.00
§ Region 2 - $41.00
§ Region 3 - $43.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of services – standard 21 days;
§ amount of time from commencement of services to receipt of final report - standard 50 days; and,
§ percent of consumers placed in employment with their original vocational goal – standard 90 percent.
Performance Indicators Under Development
Level III
WORK READINESS SERVICES 3 (New Code Needed) - In addition to the soft skills of Level I, listed above, this service is a defined set of activities that lead to development of skills for a specific career outcome (e.g. training in retail sales, utility worker, or other generic job areas) consistent with consumer’s IPE goals and locally available employment. The skills acquired must be appropriate for entry level work in the field of preparation and/or transferable to other job areas. It is expected that at least one third of Level III work readiness training will be in a community-based setting. The standard authorization period for this service is up to 60 days, which includes both the training process and simultaneous job development and placement activities. The expected outcome is that consumers will have had a real work experience, and have acquired work readiness skills associated with specific career area identified in their IPE and job placement.
Deliverables and Payment Process: Upon completion of approved Level III Work Readiness Services, the provider will prepare and submit a report to the VESID counselor within 10 business days, or in case of drop outs, after the last contact with the individual. The report must include data relating to the employment of the individual sufficient for VESID case closure. Services rendered must have enabled the consumer to learn the essential functions of the job and to meet employer expectations sufficient for job retention. The unit of service is a minimum of a five-hour day and can be billed in half units (2.5 hours) if necessary.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per day with a standard authorization of up to 60 days at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $45.00
§ Region 2 - $41.00
§ Region 3 - $43.00
Job Placement Rate after 90 days on the payroll of $800.00 for all Regions – this rate cannot be combined with any other placement or training rates.
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of service – standard 21 days;
§ amount of time from commencement of service to receipt of report – standard 70 days; and,
§ consumer successfully trained with an employer and maintain employment for 90 days – standard 100 percent.
JOB PLACEMENT SERVICES
Definition:
Consumers are served by providers with employment-related services necessary to obtain or retain acceptable employment. It is VESID’s expectation that the employment be secured in an integrated setting and consistent with the individual’s IPE vocational goal.
Services:
These services may be delivered individually or sequentially/bundled predicated upon the individual needs of the consumer, as identified by the referring vocational rehabilitation counselor. These services are not designed for individuals who meet the criteria for involvement in Supported Employment services.
Level I:
COACHING SUPPORTS (TO EMPLOYMENT) – This service includes interventions that can be used in Status 18, 20, 22 and provide the individual consumer assistance and support on or off-the-job in activities on a short-term or long-term basis, that are employment-related and needed to promote job development, adjustment and retention. Services duration will be determined by the VRC depending upon the individual consumer’s Individualized Plan for Employment. Activities may include, but are not limited to, job orientation, job destination/transportation training, resume writing, interviewing skills, job clubs, teaching basic job tasks, supervision at the worksite, supervisor consultation, assistance in integrating into the work environment or adjusting to changes in the work environment, assistance with public support agencies, the provision of supports due to changes in job duties, family and residential provider consultation and ongoing contact with the consumer and/or employer to ensure continued job satisfaction.
Deliverables and Payment Process: This service is funded on an hourly basis, with the VRC determining number of hours appropriate for the desired intervention. VESID will pay for vouchered services rendered upon receipt of a monthly report outlining the services delivered, status of the individual’s current employment and outcome of the intervention provided.
Staffing: Coaching Support service providers must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a varied and successful work history in competitive employment settings;
§ knowledge of employer expectations of performance and employee behaviors; and,
§ a minimum of two years experience in providing employment-related services to persons who have a disabling condition and knowledge of the local job market.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per hour with the VRC determining the number of hours appropriate for the desired intervention at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $48.00
§ Region 2 - $43.00
§ Region 3 - $46.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of service – standard 10 days; and,
§ percent of consumers successfully rehabilitated – standard 60 percent.
Performance Indicators Under Development:
§ successful placement in employment
Level II:
DIRECT PLACEMENT INTAKE – Tier 1 - (New Code Needed) – This service is designed to permit the individual referred for services and the service provider to determine if there is an adequate match in the following areas: the vocational goal, the job search methodologies and mutual expectations. It may be utilized as an assessment or placement service, including evaluation of employability, or as a pre-screening relative to placement potential in a particular occupation.
JOB SEEKING AND JOB DEVELOPMENT SERVICES – Tier 2 - (CODE 929X) – These services are designed to equip the consumer with the necessary skills to participate, to the greatest degree possible, with the job search process. It may include, but not be limited to, the following activities: work place behavior skills training, resume development, job application training, job seeking skills training, interviewing skills training, and/or job retention skills training. This service also includes simultaneously providing individual job development activities such as following up on job leads through both direct and indirect contact with employers. These activities conducted by the service provider would be for a minimum of five hours monthly. It is expected that these services will be delivered over a period of time not to exceed nine months.
JOB PLACEMENT – Tier 3 - This is an outcome-based service that is paid when a VESID consumer starts working on a job that meets his or her vocational goal. In the event that a consumer loses a placement and both consumer and VRC believe additional placement services are indicated, this service may be repeated if necessary.
JOB RETENTION SERVICES – Tier 4 - This service provides a resource to both the consumer and the employer during the initial 90 days of employment; VESID expects on-going contact with the consumer and, where it is not contraindicated, the employer to ensure a successful transition to his or her new position.
Deliverables and Payment Process:
§ For Tier 1 – Direct Placement Intake – This is a flat fee service. Payment will be made upon receipt of a report from the provider, within 20 working days of the referral, indicating whether placement services are recommended to continue;
§ For Tier 2 – Job Seeking and Job Development Service - This is a flat fee service. VESID expects a monthly report describing the services provided and will pay 50 percent upon receipt of the voucher and the first report. The subsequent 50 percent will be paid at the end of the agreed upon time frame or in the event of a placement. If placement does not occur within nine months from the beginning of these services, any additional placement service that might have been authorized will be automatically canceled. These services can be reauthorized upon agreement from the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor;
§ For Tier 3 – Job Placement - This service is paid upon receipt of a voucher and a complete written report (including all data necessary for a successful case closure documentation) confirming the completion of the first day of employment as defined by the consumer’s employer. In the event that the consumer loses a job, this fee could be reauthorized by the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and paid to the vendor more than once, provided the follow up job placement occurs more than 90 days from the original; and,
§ For Tier 4 – Job Retention Services - Upon receipt of a voucher and an updated report containing required data for case closure, this outcome-based payment is paid to the provider after services rendered have enabled the consumer to learn the essential functions of the job and our consumer meets employer productivity expectations while retaining the job for a minimum of 90 calendar days.
Staffing: Level II Job placement service providers must have:
§ a high school diploma or GED;
§ a varied and successful work history in competitive employment settings;
§ knowledge of employer expectations of performance and employee behaviors;
§ knowledge of the local job market;
§ a minimum of two years experience in providing employment services to persons who have disabling conditions; and,
§ supervision by an individual holding at least a Bachelor’s level degree in an appropriate human services/human resources field, and one year of experience in the provision of job placement services, OR at least four year’s experience in provision of placement services. Staff must also take part in ongoing training and staff development activities associated with provisions of placement of individuals with disabilities in employment.
Payment Rate and Authorization:
Tier 1: Payment for this service is a flat fee per intake at the rate of:
§ Regions 1, 2 & 3 - $150.00
Tier 2: Payment for this service is a flat fee for a minimum of five hours per month, not to exceed nine months. A payment of 50 percent will be made upon receipt of the voucher and first report and the subsequent 50 percent payable at the end of the agreed upon time frame or in the event of a placement at a rate of:
§ Regions 1, 2 & 3 - $550.00
Tier 3: Payment for this service is a flat fee at a rate of:
§ Regions 1, 2 & 3 - $550.00
Tier 4: Payment is a flat fee at the rate of:
§ Regions 1, 2 & 3 - $800.00
Established Performance Indicators:
§ hours of work per week – standard 35 hours;
§ percent of consumers successfully rehabilitated – standard 60 percent;
§ amount of time from referral to commencement of service – standard 21 days; and,
§ length of time from commencement of services to successful rehabilitation – standard 150 days.
Performance Indicators Under Development:
§ consumer’s hourly rate of pay – standard Region 1 $13.00 and Regions 2 and 3 $12.00; and,
§ percent of consumers receiving benefits with employment – standard .
DRIVER REHABILITATION SERVICES
NOTE: These services are only for the provision of driver training services, which are specifically focused on disability-related barriers to driving. Routine training in the operation of a vehicle is not included. Only individuals requiring vehicle modifications, specialized driver training and/or adaptive equipment because of his/her disability should be enrolled in this type of training.
Definition:
Driver rehabilitation services include all activities that are necessary for the identification of specific vehicle modification required to enable an individual to safely operate a vehicle, and the evaluation and training necessary for the individual to competently operate his/her modified vehicle. These services also include similar information for an individual to safely be a passenger in a vehicle modified for that purpose. Driver evaluation and training services may be provided to eligible individuals with a disability related transportation barrier to achieving their employment outcome.
Services:
The Driver Rehabilitation services included within the UCS contract include: Adaptive Driver Evaluation which is a process to assess whether an individual has potential to drive a vehicle safely, what training needs there are and to determine if vehicle modifications, adaptive equipment or automotive equipment are necessary. It also encompasses Adaptive Driver Training which is a process to teach an individual how to safely drive a modified vehicle, so that the individual is able to obtain or retain a driver's license.
Level I:
VENDOR TRAVEL FOR DRIVER/VEHICLE EVALUATION OR TRAINING IMPLEMENTATION - This is a service authorized only when it is necessary for a vendor approved for other services in this series must travel over 20 miles each way to accomplish service delivery to the consumer.
Deliverables and Payment process: Through discussion with referring VESID counselor, it must be established that such travel is necessary, and documentation of the actual mileage from site to site must be provided. This service will be authorized in tandem with either Level II and /or Level III Driver Rehabilitation services. If travel is less than 20 miles each way, the vendor will be paid at the rate listed in Level II for completing the service.
Payment Rate and Authorization: Payment for this service is per hour with a standard authorization of a maximum of up to 10 hours at the rate of:
§ Region 1 - $50.00
§ Region 2 - $45.00
§ Region 3 - $48.00
Established Performance Indicators:
Level II:
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