The Arc of Ohio Spring Conference

The Arc of Ohio Spring Conference

Sheraton Columbus Hotel at Capitol Square

75 E. State Street, Columbus, OH 43215

Tuesday, March 28, 2023

9:00 – 10:00 a.m. Registration

10:00 a.m. Opening Comments

Unwinding Appendix K – Next Steps

Kimberly Hauck, Director – Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

The declaration of a health care emergency in 2020 allowed states to modify their Medicaid Plan through an “Appendix”. The current health care emergency expires on May 11, 2023 and Ohio has six months to either return to pre-pandemic rules or make Appendix K modifications permanent.

11:00 a.m.

Ohio DD Crisis

Representatives from The Arc of Ohio, Ohio Association of County Boards, Ohio Provider Resource Association and Ohio Health Care Association will discuss the current workforce crisis and the need to raise direct support wages to a competitive rate.

Noon

Lunch – Included in Registration

Use this time as an opportunity to network with fellow conference attendees.

1:00 pm.

Statehouse Tour (Advance registration is requested)

Testifying before the Ohio General Assembly can be intimidating. This is an opportunity to familiarize yourself with the Ohio Statehouse with an enjoyable tour of our historic Statehouse.

Self-Direction and Participant Directed Goods/Services (PDGS)

Nyoka Caddolph & Joelyn Karlson, Ohio Department of DD

Personal choice is integral to not only our society but services and supports to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Self-Direction and PDGS exist within our DD Waivers, yet are often the most misunderstood and confusing services. This session will provide the tools you need, as we move from “medical necessity” to supports that enhances quality of life.

2:00 p.m.

Telling Your Story

Gary Tonks & David Lewis, The Arc of Ohio

I want things to change. I love my job, but I can’t live on poverty wages. I can’t find staff even though I have a waiver. Who do I talk to? How do I let the people who can make a difference know what we need? Gary & David will present an interactive session on how to Tell Your Story and to Whom.

3:15 p.m.

Legislative Cocktail Reception

Join your fellow attendees, State Senators, Representatives and Department Staff as we Tell Our Stories. This event is included in your registration and provides you an opportunity for one on one interaction with those who can make a difference.