Author: Amanda Holt

MFEI Implementation Date Extended

Posted on by Amanda Holt

The new go-live date for MFEI-IDD assessment tool has been pushed back to July 1, 2025.

What will happen as of July 1st, 2025?

  • The MFEI-IDD (Medicaid Functional Eligibility Instrument – Intellectual/Developmental Disability) assessment tool will officially replace the BASIS tool for determining eligibility and support needs for all participants.
  • New waiver participants will begin receiving services based on the new updated rate structure and assessment process.
  • Existing participants will have no changes to current reimbursement rates or services levels for an additional 12 months.

What documentation requirements will be necessary for the MFEI assessment?

  • Behavior tracking will no longer be required, although it may be needed if requesting extraordinary funding. We recommend that providers continue to keep behavior tracking, even though it will not be required for the MFEI.
  • Seizure tracking and any seizures happening more often than once per month must be signed off by a doctor as occurring frequently.
  • Proof of currently prescribed medications and specific purpose for each medication.
  • The Person-Centered Support Plan (PCSP) should document the level of medical support needed.
  • Doctors must sign off on the following items:
    • Medical diagnosis within the last 12 months for any diagnosis requiring active treatment, attesting to the chronic nature of the condition
    • Type of seizure(s)
    • Documentation for inpatient hospitalizations
    • Medications and specific reason prescribed
    • Documentation of specific reason person misses regular activities
    • Orders for any special healthcare products
    • Order for special dietary requirements and any food allergies

Please keep in mind…

The new assessment will take much longer than the BASIS, perhaps taking a couple of hours to complete. It is hoped that the assessment length will shorten with time as everyone adapts to the new system.

  • Consider the individual’s comfort and if special considerations are needed due to the length of the meeting required.
  • The individual does not have to stay for the entire meeting. They may leave after specific questions have been asked of them specifically.

CDDO of SEK will provide updates as they become available.

Voluntary Program for Disabled Persons in Columbus

Posted on by Amanda Holt

Disabled Persons Response and Communication Program (DPRCP)

The Disabled Persons Response and Communication Program (DPRCP) is a voluntary program implemented to assist both residents with special needs and their family members. The program was designed to help residents communicate their unique and individualized needs to first responders as well as assist our first responders during their efforts to modify their response and interactions during an emergency and/or crisis. DPRCP is available to all Columbus residents with special needs including but not limited to mental disabilities, physical disabilities, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This program is also inclusive to anyone who regularly visits Columbus due to employment, education, daycare, etc. and the information provided remains valid for a period of 2 years.

Currently, there are two types of registrations available:

  1. A registration specifically for family/guardians completing the information on behalf of a minor or person in their care
  2. A self-registration form for residents providing information regarding their own needs

After completing the proper registration form, there are also two types of releases available:

  • A release specifically for family/guardians completing the information on behalf of a minor or person in their care
  • A self-release for residents providing information regarding their own needs

By filling out the appropriate registration and release, residents and their parents/guardians are consenting to have this information added to a searchable database. The information provided will be available to law enforcement, paramedics and firefighters responding to a home or any location within Columbus involving a registered participant and will assist with efforts in providing safe, effective and appropriate responses.

If choosing to complete the hard copy versions, these forms can be mailed directly to the Columbus Police Department:

Columbus Police Department
300 E Maple Street
Columbus, KS 66725

If a photo of the registrant is available, it may be mailed with the completed forms. However, it is preferred any photos are e-mailed to columbuspd@columbusks.gov with the subject title including the registrant’s name. In addition, we have provided a more convenient way to register electronically in one easy step.  The electronic versions include both the registration and release in one location and can be sent simply by clicking on “submit”.  If you prefer this method for registration, see this option below where registration forms are provided.

Register Yourself

If you are a person with special needs and you would like to participate in DPRCP, fill out the DPRCP Registration Form and the DPRCP Self Release Form. Forms may be e-mailed to columbuspd@columbusks.gov or they can be mailed and/or hand delivered to the Columbus Police Department at the following address:

Columbus Police Department
300 E Maple Street
Columbus, KS 66725

Disabled Persons Response and CommunicationDownload
DPRCP Self ReleaseDownload
DPRCP ReleaseDownload
DPRCP RegistrationDownload

Celebrating Achievements of Individuals with Disabilities

Posted on by Amanda Holt

Every achievement deserves recognition. Here’s how to celebrate the successes of people with developmental disabilities.

Why Celebrating Achievements Matters

  • Boosts confidence and self-esteem.
  • Encourages others in the community.

Ways to Celebrate

  • Host an annual awards event.
  • Share success stories on social media.
  • Provide vocational training programs.

Conclusion: Celebrating achievements helps build a positive and supportive community.

The Role of Technology in Supporting People with Disabilities

Posted on by Amanda Holt

The Role of Technology in Supporting People with Disabilities

Technology has transformed the way we assist individuals with developmental disabilities. Discover how innovation helps.

Assistive Technologies Making a Difference

  • Speech-to-Text Devices: Improve communication.
  • Mobility Aids: Enhance physical movement.
  • Learning Tools: Enable better education outcomes.

Benefits of Technology

  • Increased independence.
  • Improved quality of life.
  • Offer access to specialized therapies.
  • Provide vocational training programs.

Conclusion: Embracing technology can open new possibilities for individuals with disabilities.

Top Resources for Families Supporting Loved Ones with Disabilities

Posted on by Amanda Holt

Top Resources for Families Supporting Loved Ones with Disabilities

Families play a crucial role in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Here’s a list of essential resources.

Educational Resources

  • Online courses on disability support.
  • Local workshops and seminars.

Financial Support Options

  • Government grants
  • Nonprofit organizations offering assistance.
  • Intellectual Disabilities
  • Down Syndrome

Support Groups and Networks

  • Join local community groups.
  • Participate in online forums for shared experiences.
  • Provide vocational training programs.

Conclusion: Access to resources empowers families to provide better care and support to their loved ones.

How to Create an Inclusive Community for Individuals with Disabilities

Posted on by Amanda Holt

How to Create an Inclusive Community for Individuals with Disabilities

Creating an inclusive community requires effort, education, and empathy. Here are practical steps you can take.

Steps to Foster Inclusion

Developmental disabilities are conditions that arise during childhood and impact physical, learning, language, or behavioral development.

  • Educate Yourself and Others
    • Host workshops to raise awareness.
    • Share educational resources.
  • Ensure Accessibility
    • Build ramps and accessible pathways.
    • Provide sign language interpreters during events.

Benefits of an Inclusive Community

  • Strengthens social bonds.
  • Promotes diversity and understanding.
  • Foster an inclusive environment.
  • Provide vocational training programs.

Conclusion: Small changes can lead to significant improvements in inclusivity within your community.