FMS Annual Report

Decisions that Impact Consumers

On January 1, 2011 the Office of Long Term Living (OLTL) implemented a new rate methodology that impacted all Fiscal Employer Agents who provide Financial Management Services to consumers who choose to direct their own services. In addition to the new rates, OLTL mandated that funds designated for consumers’ employees must be clearly segregated from an entity’s operations in the course of its business. Overall this new rate methodology resulted in a decrease in available funding to entities (like AIM) who provide Financial Management Services.

Abilities In Motion (AIM) responded immediately to these state objectives and implemented operational change in order to remain compliant with DPW provider mandates. We sought technological improvement, removed less than effective practices and re-allocated staff. While some provider groups continue to advocate against these new state mandates and demand higher FMS provider rates, AIM has moved on to continue the implementation of its mission—to provide services to assist consumers who choose independent living. Most importantly, Abilities In Motion is concerned that in order to satisfy any request to increase FMS provider rates may be accomplished by reallocating (reducing) those funds designated for consumers to pay their workers. A reduction in consumer funds results in less pay, less training and benefits—and ultimately a reduction in the availability of quality support workers.

So what is in the best interests of the consumers AIM serves? When determining its role in this advocacy effort, AIM asked this fundamental ’mission-driven’ question and determined that asking for a portion of the funds intended for consumers’ use—in the programs they depend on for at-home services—clearly could not be in consumers’ best interest. Advocacy for provider rate increases that would serve to diminish funds designated for workers is not in the best interest of the consumers we serve. We, therefore, stand apart from this particular advocacy effort.

Backed by sound financial principles, Abilities In Motion stands firm in its commitment to deliver services within the new rate methodology and to securely safeguard these funds for the intended purpose of consumers utilization.