DOH Asks SNALRs to Submit Data to Update SNALR Voucher Demonstration Program

The Department of Health (DOH) recently sent out information to Special Needs Assisted Living Residences (SNALRs) regarding the SNALR Resident Voucher Demonstration Program. This two-year demonstration is designed for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and/or dementia living in an SNALR. The program authorizes the State to subsidize the cost of an SNALR for those individuals not on Medicaid living with Alzheimer's disease and/or dementia who are unable to privately pay and would otherwise likely be discharged to a skilled nursing facility, given they meet certain eligibility criteria.

There are currently a few remaining vouchers available, so participating SNALRs with potentially eligible residents should encourage them to apply. DOH has updated the Voucher Demonstration Program Resident Application Form with simplified language regarding resources information and transfer of assets. A question was also added confirming that the applicant is not on Medicaid, as this would make them ineligible.

DOH is currently collecting data to update the parameters of the program. As such, they ask that all SNALRs complete the Cost of Care survey sent by Nov. 13, 2019 so that they may establish the most current benchmarks, evaluate the program, determine appropriate levels of payment, and update information on the average regional costs of care. If an SNALR provider did not receive the survey directly from DOH, please let us know, and we can forward it to you. Please note that DOH asks that all SNALRs complete the survey, even if you do not participate in the demonstration, so that they can calculate the most accurate regional benchmarks.

Since the program’s inception, resident participation has grown each month. The majority (82 percent) of the residents who participate are female. The Department continues to maintain a relatively quick turnaround for processing payment of the vouchers. Members involved in the program should be aware that Anthony DeThomasis has left the program. Rick Goldfarb is the primary contact for the program at DOH and is happy to answer any questions or provide assistance.

Members should note that this demonstration expires March 31, 2020 and will require reauthorization in the budget to continue. Overall, providers, residents, and resident families have positive reports about the program, and there is advocacy underway for its continuation. In the meantime, DOH is accepting suggestions to improve the program in the future. They are also looking at possible ways to trim some of the expenditures moving forward. Members are encouraged to provide us with any suggestions. Lastly, if the demonstration is continued in this year’s budget, there will be an opportunity for additional SNALRs to sign up to participate moving forward.

Contact: Diane Darbyshire, ddarbyshire@leadingageny.org, 518-867-8828