August 13, 2024 IICEI Workforce Workgroup - Agenda and Meeting Reports

IICEI Workforce Workgroup

• August 13, 2024
• 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
• Join Via Zoom
• Meeting ID: 836 1690 5785
• One Tap Mobile: +13126266799,83616905785# US (Chicago)

Agenda

1. Welcome
2. Ground Rules and Expectations
   1. Review of norms
   2. Approval of Minutes
   3. Introduction of new advocacy representative
3. Credentialing Discussion
   1. Review of Provider Connections Dara
   2. DT waiver
   3. Provisional Process
   4. Supports for new providers
   5. Discussion of strengths/weaknesses/opportunities related to credentialing
4. Public Comment

Attendees

Minutes

I. Welcome

II. Ground Rules and Expectations

• Reviewed norms
• Approval of June minutes: Motion to approve by Amanda Albright, seconded by Monica Patrick. No opposed.
• Introduction of new advocacy representative, Talibah Moore.

II. Credentialing Discussion

• Review of Provider Connections Data
  • The workgroup reviewed credentialing data for the past two years.
  • They reviewed the number who initially applied and became credentialed as well as who became credentialed upon subsequent application. Also reviewed how many leave after initial credential.
  • Rates varied across disciplines in terms of how many had been credentialed with their initial application. The reasons for denial tended to be - systems overview missing, no license, IMPACT issues, missing supervisor form, no supervisor identified, and paperwork challenges.
  • Rob shared that some (particularly developmental therapists) submit for transcript review and then never apply for an actual credential.
• DT Waiver
  • Reviewed information on the DT waiver process
  • Group was able to see how many applicants may be eligible for the process.
  • There are two groups proposed based on how many of their core hours are completed.
  • Both groups would receive check ins to ensure they are making progress towards their hours.
  • Second group would be supported by a monthly cohort.
  • Hoping to provide applicants with a potential training path with priorities.
  • Degree requirements would remain the same.
• Provisional Process
  • The provisional process was discussed.
  • CFCs must indicate a need and claims for provisional providers are handled differently.
  • Not a lot of provisional applicants for interpreters or translators.
  • Some provisional providers never become credentialed, so this process may not be working as it was intended.
• Supports for New Providers
  • Discussion took place around how CFCs support new provider.
  • Some CFCs utilize the list provided by Provider Connections to see who's preferred work area is within their CFC region.
  • The LIC reaches out to those providers and connects them with resources and assists in connecting them to service coordinators.
  • They also use the list to chat with those who do not have a preferred location and how the provider would like to provide services.
  • Southern Illinois has a smaller list of candidates. The CFC is there to support those who are interested in working within the region. The CFC provides information on the process, how to build a caseload, and offers knowledge and resources.
  • Discussion around new providers looking for mentors and how the LIC can help with networking.
  • Group briefly discussed a centralized waitlist and how that might work for different areas of the state.
• Discussion of strengths/weaknesses/opportunities related to credentialing
  • Discussed why emergency waivers aren't currently an option for other disciplines (would require a Rule change).
  • If we allowed those awaiting a license a temporary credential, we would need a Rule change. One concern if this took place would be someone getting an emergency credential without a license and then never receiving a license. Families would need to be told if they were being supported by an unlicensed provider. Similar to a provisional provider, families would need to sign off on this.
  • Further discussion included whether unlicensed providers could enroll in IMPACT, how long they'd be able to provide services without their license, and what the follow up/through would be for this.
  • Due to the timeliness of background checks, it was asked if the background check could be started immediately while the rest of the application is being processed. Provider Connections stated that upon receipt of the application, they send it over to DCFS for processing and the timeline depends on how quickly the provider follows up. They also stated that the CANTS is submitted regardless of whether or not a full application is received, but without a full application there is no documentation for allowing a background check. Provider Connections has had CANTS forms submitted for background checks with no application to follow.
  • It was suggested that there should be a way to show a step by step credentialing process that is not so overwhelming.
  • Mentoring was also discussed.

III. Public Comment - none

IV. Next meeting will be held on September 10th at 1:00 pm