OKLAHOMA DEPARTMENT OF HUMAN SERVICES
Developmental Disabilities Services Division
P.O. Box 25352
Oklahoma City, OK  73125
(405) 521-3571 

December 31, 2007

RE: Rate development

Dear Agency Companion Provider:

A per diem rate for a Pervasive Level of Agency Companion service was approved by the Oklahoma Health Care Authority and becomes effective January 1, 2008. The Pervasive Level uses the Enhanced Level of Agency Companion and adds a component for recruitment and professional supports to properly serve those service recipients who present pervasive behavioral or emotional challenges. To be eligible for this level of service, the service recipient must be identified through the grand staffing committee and have a dual diagnosis of mental illness and mental retardation.

The Recruitment component of the rate offsets certain expenses, such as salaries and benefits, incurred to market, recruit, screen, and train potential companions.

The Professional Support component is added to offset the expense of a staff person with a minimum of a Masters of Social Work (MSW) degree who will provide ongoing support and training to the companion, offering best practice approaches in dealing with specific members.

The per diem rate for this program is $158.25 for the Employee Companion Model procedure code S5136 and $133.00 for the Contracted Companion Model procedure code S5136 TG.

Please contact the Kristi Blackburn at (405) 521-6257 if you are interested in additional information.

A copy of this letter has been posted on the Developmental Disabilities Services Division website in the Provider Agency Information section.

Sincerely,


James M. Nicholson, Division Director
Developmental Disabilities Services Division
Department of Human Services