EDITOR'S NOTE
In a story in Disability Scoop, I found that wheelchair bound people have significant problems replacing their wheelchairs through their insurance. A lawsuit out of California might help them get better coverage. The story is HERE.
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Roll it Before You Pull it
Tips to avoid IRS penalties on 401(k) retirement plan distributions |
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While each retirement plan has similar early withdrawal penalty exemptions, they are not all alike. Knowing these subtle differences within 401(k) plans can help you avoid a 10 percent tax penalty if you take money out of the plan prior to reaching age 59 1/2. This is true because a basic rollover of funds into a Traditional IRA is a readily available option to avoid the penalty. You should consider rolling over your 401(k) into an IRA prior to early distribution when:
- Using Retirement Funds for Qualified Higher Education Expenses. Want to use retirement funds to pay for college? Pull the funds out of an IRA and not another retirement account type or you could be subject to an additional 10 percent early withdrawal penalty. After rolling the funds into an IRA, the funds can be used penalty-free as long as they are for qualified educational expenses at a qualified school.
- Using Retirement Funds to Buy, Build, or Rebuild a First Home. You may use up to $10,000 of your IRA per person to purchase a first home and avoid paying the 10 percent early withdrawal penalty. If these same funds are pulled out of a 401(k) plan you could be subject to an additional federal tax of up to $1,000. So roll the funds to a Traditional IRA first, and save the tax.
- Using Retirement Funds to Pay for Medical Insurance. There is also a provision for an unemployed individual to use IRA funds to pay for medical insurance. This provision does not exist in 401(k)s, so to avoid the early withdrawal penalties, roll the money from your 401(k) into an IRA prior to using the funds to pay for your insurance premiums.
Remember, by rolling the funds prior to pulling the funds for pre-retirement distribution you are avoiding the early withdrawal penalties, but you must still pay the applicable income tax.
Bonus Retirement Plan Tips
Two other quirks in the retirement tax code to be aware of:
- Early Distributions From a SIMPLE IRA Could Trigger a 25 Percent Penalty. The early distribution penalty of 10 percent increases to 25 percent for those in SIMPLE IRAs, if the withdrawal occurs during a two-year time period starting from your initial enrollment date in the SIMPLE plan. You may not roll your funds into another retirement plan type during this two year period to try to avoid the increased early withdrawal penalty.
- Minimum Distributions are Required From ROTH 401(k)s but Not ROTH IRAs. In an unusual quirk in the tax code, if you have a ROTH 401(k) you are required to make minimum required distributions from this account like other 401(k)s and IRAs when you reach age 72. If, however, you roll the ROTH 401(k) funds into a ROTH IRA you are no longer subject to the minimum distribution rule requirements.
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Editor's Note
I received a note from Bankrate, a leading financial advisor. It brought up something that I feel could be a very common problem for people with special needs, and I think it should be looked at. Here is the note, and links.
About 1 in 4 adults in America have a physical or mental disability, which can result in financial instability and difficulty working. Our experts at Bankrate created a guide that informs readers on how to accumulate savings for people with disabilities. It includes:
- How to save money without impacting benefit asset limits
- Ways to ensure a financially secure future
- Savings accounts for individuals with disabilities
Here is the link:
https://www.bankrate.com/banking/saving-money-for-people-with-disabilities/
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We are pleased to announce Yusaf Sterling as the newest contact at ADP here to provide assistance for the specific needs of IDD Providers (HCS,TxHmL, ICF, etc...)
Don't forget to mention us (Twogether Consulting) if you are interested in receiving services from ADP Payroll & HR Services, as there are discounts available!
For instance, Initial 2-3 months free!
ADP has also provided Twogether Consulting and our clients some new information that many of you may be interested in hearing about, regarding the
Summary of the Executive Order from President Biden and what it means to employers.
Below is the ADP link that discusses how they are helping companies track all of what they are expected to put in place, based on the new vaccine mandate
https://mediacenter.adp.com/2021-09-13-ADP-Bolsters-Return-to-Workplace-Mobile-Solution-with-COVID-19-Test-Result-Tracking
Here is the link to PDF Handout as well: ADP's Informational Handout About the Vaccine Mandate From President Biden.
For more information contact
Yusuf Sterling/ Assistant Regional Director-Central Texas at: 919-308-7521
or
Katie DeMayo/Comprehensive Services Consultant-Central Texas at: 724-205-4716
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WEBINARS
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Free Webinar Series: APTIOM “A Treatment Option for the Management of Focal Seizures in Adults” @ Free WebinarNov 17 @ 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
Twogether Consulting is happy to have Sunovion Pharmaceuticals again as resource for IDD providers in our free webinar series this month.
Free Webinar Series Hosted By: Sunovion Pharmaceuticals
Pre-Registration is Required!!
Meeting code: 208438
Sunovion Representative:
Keith James
Keith.James@sunovion.com
Ph: 530-864-3119 (Please contact Mr. James if you need any assistance with registration or additional information!)
Guest presenter:
Nanette Wrobel, RPh
Director of Education/Business Development
Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy
Austin, TX
APTIOM “A Treatment Option for the Management of Focal Seizures in Adults”
Treatment Considerations for Patients in Long-term Care, Including Those With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
Nanette Wrobel- Director of Education/Business Development for Tarrytown Pharmacy will be presenting information on the drug treatment, Aptiom, and the possible benefits for individuals in ICF facilities or other programs with Group Home Settings (Includes HCS or DD waiver program in other states), who have focul seizures.
CONNECT WITH THE KEY LEADERS IN THE FIELD OF NEUROLOGY TO HEAR THE LATEST SCIENTIFIC INFORMATION ABOUT APTIOM
This promotional, non-CME program is intended for US health care professionals involved in the treatment of patients 4 years of age and older with partial-onset seizures.
**The speaker is a paid consultant of and is speaking on behalf of
Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Inc.
Click on These Handouts Below: available for download:
For More Info, Click HERE
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Webinar “Expectations of The Nurse In The HCS/TxHmL Programs” Part I @ Webinar Nov 29 @ 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
“ Expectations of the Nurse In The HCS/TxHmL Program” Part I
Updated Version: Including Some of The New Guidance from LTCR Surveyors
(Part II is on December 9th, 2021)
Date: November 29th, 2021
Time: 10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Cost: $60 per person
Presenter: Julie Blacklock/IDD Waiver Consultant
: For: Nurses, Medical Appt. Scheduler’s, Program Administrators, Program Directors, & other Medical Staff Applicable Programs: HCS & TXHmL
Topics:
-Scope of practice (RN vs. LVN) and Responsibilities of the nurse for the HCS & TXHmL programs.
-Discussion of Medication Supervision-Staff Training
For More Info, click HERE
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New Provider (HCS/TxHML) Training: “I Got My Contract, Now What Do I Do?” Part I @ Webinar
Dec 8 @ 9:30 am – 11:30 am
New Provider (HCS/TxHML) Training: “I Got My Contract, Now What Do I Do?” Part I
Date: Dec. 8th, 2021 (Part II is on Dec. 14th, 2021)
Time: 9:30am – 11:30am
Cost: $75
For: Owners, Program Managers, Case Managers/Care Coordinators, Nursing Staff, Quality Assurance Staff
Presenter: Julie Blacklock/IDD Waiver Consultant
You will receive a confirmation email and handout as well as a link to register with “Gotowebinar” to attend the session, once we receive payment. Please click on your registration link right away to receive reminders for the session!
Topics:
-Resources at HHSC (Health & Human Services Commission)
– What Is HCS? What is TxHmL?
For More info, Click HERE
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Webinar “Expectations of The Nurse In The HCS/TxHmL Programs” Part II @ Webinar
Dec 9 @ 10:00 am – 12:30 pm
“ Expectations of the Nurse In The HCS/TxHmL Program” Part II
Updated Version: Including Some of The New Guidance from LTCR Surveyors
Part I is on November 29th, 2021
Date: December 9th, 2021
Time: 10:00 AM-12:30 PM
Cost: $60 per person
Presenter: Julie Blacklock/IDD Waiver Consultant
:For: Nurses, Medical Appt. Scheduler’s, Program Administrators, Program Directors, & other Medical Staff Applicable Programs: HCS & TXHmL
Topics:
-RN Delegation (Part II)
-Review of the RN Nursing Assessment (RN Comprehensive Nursing Assessment/CNA),
-Nursing Service Plans, Justification for Nursing Services,
For More Info, Click HERE
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New Provider (HCS/TxHML) Training: “I Got My Contract, Now What Do I Do?” Part II @ Webinar
Dec 14 @ 9:30 am – 11:30 am
New Provider (HCS/TxHML) Training: “I Got My Contract, Now What Do I Do?” Part II
Date: Dec. 14th, 2021 (Part I is on Dec. 8th, 2021)
Time: 9:30 am-11:30am
Cost: $75/person
For: Owners, Program Managers, Case Managers/Care Coordinators, Nursing Staff, Quality Assurance Staff
Presenter: Julie Blacklock/IDD Waiver Consultant
You will receive a confirmation email and handout as well as a link to register with “Gotowebinar” to attend the session, once we receive payment. Please click on your registration link right away to receive reminders for the session!
Topics:
-Setting Up SSI
-Monitoring Medicaid Eligibility & Problems That May Arise,
For More Info, Click HERE
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Julie's Updates
(As seen on the Updates tab on twogetherconsulting.com)
https://twogetherconsulting.com/updates/
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Nov 16, 2021
November 16th, 2021 Many states have already filed lawsuits against the COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate. This includes lawsuits against the CMS Interim Final rule, the OSHA Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) and the Federal Contractors rule. The Texas Attorney General (AG) Office announced it is also challenging the CMS Federal Contractors rules. Not sure what this means for providers yet, but you may need to continue to prepare for implementation until otherwise directed. See links below for more...
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Nov 16, 2021
November 16th, 2021 Starting August 2021, HHSC has begun the transition to one system for Provider Enrollment Management which will move to 1 "smart system" if you will for both application process to become a provider/Medicaid provider, re-enrollment every 5 years, and the forms/application will be uniform. They will go directly into TMHP system, not to HHSC. The current paper application forms will not be required. They have begun the process with existing providers. At this point the...
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Nov 14, 2021
November 14th, 2021 PROVIDER REPORT GRACE PERIOD HHSC is granting a “grace period” to allow providers time to come into compliance if they fail to meet any deadlines between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021. While the deadlines to report will not change, HHSC will not take any of the available actions against a provider as long as the provider submits all the required reports due between October 1, 2021, and November 30, 2021. The grace period ends December 1, 2021. Because vendor hold...
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Nov 9, 2021
November 9th, 2021 Tarrytown Expocare Pharmacy COVID-19 Booster Sign-up Reminder & Deadlines Tarrytown is offering an opportunity to offer the COVID-19 booster dose to those you serve, your employees and HH and CFC PAS/HAB families. See the link below for registration. Click HERE for Vaccine Sign-Up Please remember the deadlines for signing up: By 5:00 p.m.,Thursday, November 11th for the clinics held the week of November 15th. By 5:00 p.m., November 19th for the clinics held between...
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Nov 6, 2021
November 6th, 2021 LTC Providers May Request COVID-19 Emergency Support For Emergency Staffing Support: The Office of the Governor directed DSHS to use staffing agencies to provide medical personnel from out-of-state to Texas health care facilities to assist in COVID-19 operations. This support will be available to residential long-term care providers. -Providers must demonstrate that they have exhausted all other options. -Also that they have urgent need for assistance before requesting...
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Nov 6, 2021
ICF-IID Providers, Surveyors Be Sure To Register for 2021 ICF Conference, “Stronger Together” Wednesday, Nov. 17, 2021 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. There will be sessions for all attendees and separate sessions for the providers and surveyors. The conference will feature an opening keynote message delivered by the highly rated speaker, Lori Porter, and surveyor panel discussion. Prizes are given away at each session. Topics include: ICF Surveyor Panel Discussion Trauma-Informed Care...
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Nov 6, 2021
August 12th, 2021 HCS/TxHmL Certification Principle Interpretive Guidance Series Starting August 12, 2021, the HCS/ TxHmL Joint Training Program bgan presenting a series of nine webinars designed to provide interpretive guidance on the HCS and TxHmL Principles of Certification, as outlined in the Texas Administrative Code. You may click on the links to previously recorded trainings below to watch any of the nine sessions on Certification Principles from the Texas Administrative Codes....
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Nov 5, 2021
COVID-19 Resources November 5th, 2021 Beginning May 6, 2021, HHSC has been posting pre-recorded sessions monthly. These sessions will continue to share information with stakeholders about the implementation of various Medicaid/CHIP flexibilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. HHSC may return to weekly sessions as needed if there are changes to the public health emergency. Please click on the link below to hear recorded session from NOV 4 Texas Medicaid CHIP COVID-19...
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Nov 4, 2021
November 4th, 2021 Updated ICF/IID COVID-19 FAQ and COVID-19 Response Plan Revised HHSC has revised the Frequently Asked Questions for ICF/IIDs about COVID-19 (PDF) and the ICF/IID COVID-19 Response Plan (PDF) in response to the revised COVID-19 Expansion of Reopening Visitation for ICF Providers rules. October 24th, 2021 New PL 2021-21 COVID-19 - Expansion of Reopening Visitation for ICF Providers Super important!!!! HHSC has published Provider Letter 2021-21, COVID-19 Response – Expansion of...
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Nov 4, 2021
Please go to www.twogetherconsulting.com for more information and registration. Click on "the calendar" of the Webinar you want to attend. ********We also have pre-recorded webinars you can purchase for use at your facility. Please contact Meghan Jones at: meghanjones.tx@gmail.com for more information, registration, and payment. November 2021 Expectations of The Nurse in HCS/TxHmL- Part I (Updated Version) HCS New Provider Training: Now I Got My Contract, What Do I Do-Part I ...
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Nov 4, 2021
CMS and OSHA just released their respective interim final rules on the vaccine mandate. Below are links to their rules, webinars and other related items. For further details see below as well as the information at the following link: https://homehealthcarenews.com/2021/11/cms-releases-emergency-regulation-requiring-covid-19-vaccinations-for-medicare-medicaid-providers/?euid=6e81729339&utm_source=hhcn-newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=c7ada108f8 CMS: Link to Interim Final...
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Nov 4, 2021
Our free webinar session recordings previously recorded are currently posted on our "Gotostage" page. https://www.gotostage.com/channel/3b0bd3b1a47c4e80be974f4bcfa54d7b We are pleased to announce guest presenters for November 2021 Free Webinars!! November 4th, 2021 Twogether Consulting is happy to have Sunovion Pharmaceuticals again as a resource for IDD providers in our free webinar series this month. Free Webinar Series Hosted By: Sunovion Pharmaceuticals Pre-Registration is Required!! ...
read more
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Join us for our Virtual Conference!
Come and join us at Therap’s 2021 National Conference this February 1-2-3 and share how your organization uses Therap with the attendees from the LTSS and Developmental Disabilities industries at our 2022 Therap National Conference! Don’t miss out on the chance for your organizational exposure at Therap’s 2022 National Conference virtually.
Learn more about Call for Presentations!
We are looking forward to seeing you! Bring your innovative ideas and unique experiences of utilizing Therap’s applications before the deadline on December 4, 2021.
Visit our 2022 Therap National Conference Website
Register Now
If you have questions, comments, or feedback please email at: national2022@therapservices.net
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© Therap Services 2003 - 2021. All Rights Reserved. |
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UNIQUE CHALLENGES ENSURING MEDICATION COMPLIANCE IN THE I/DD SETTING
For people with I/DD, taking medications as prescribed is essential to managing chronic conditions, minimizing adverse effects, and improving their overall health. Many often have a tough time with medication adherence whether it is one prescription or more, which is most often the case. In fact, 80% of individuals with I/DD are prescribed five or more medications; more than 60% have 10 or more1. Juggling numerous medications can be problematic for these individuals, many of whom have trouble performing even the basic activities of daily living and face cognitive, physical, and communication challenges. While the residents rely on direct support professionals, nurses, medication technicians and other employees for medication help, staff who serve them often face challenges ensuring compliance on a daily basis. This complication, coupled with the fact that residents have varying levels of functionality and medication needs, adds to the complexity, stress and demands of the job. These are just a few factors that have created a staff retention problem. Additional key challenges include:
• Staff Training: Constant turnover can hinder an organization’s ability to properly train staff. While every ICF and supported living provider understands that well-educated staff members make fewer mistakes, most cannot afford to offer training to new employees on an ongoing basis. If the organization is not engaged with an LTC pharmacy that provides this training, they often have to outsource it, which can be expensive.
• Poor Pharmacy Support & Communication: I/DD organizations have unique needs that should involve constant interaction and industry expertise from a pharmacy partner. This level of commitment requires 24/7 pharmacy support and communication. Without it, members of the I/DD staff can be left in situations where they feel overwhelmed and uncertain of the right decision. Sadly, too many organizations experience insufficient assistance from their pharmacy, with some not knowing the appropriate pharmacy contact for every situation, including the best person to answer daily questions and provide after-hours and emergency services.
• Lack of Access to Newer Technologies: Technology can play a tremendous role in the accuracy and efficiency of medication management, but with so many program options in the market, organizations may have a hard time researching and understanding which systems are best to meet their immediate and future needs. Additionally, many are still using paper MARs, increasing the workload of the organization’s staff and the risk of human transcription error.
CHOOSE A PHARMACY WITH EXPERIENCE & COMPASSION
If you work with a pharmacy that specializes in medication compliance, you can minimize medication errors and billing complaints, leading to greater individual and staff happiness. Selecting the LTC pharmacy partner that shares the same level of enthusiasm and empathy you have for the residents you serve is equally as important. Build a relationship with a pharmacy that views meeting the needs of individuals with I/DD the same way you do – as a privilege and source of pride.
With Guardian Pharmacy Texas, you get the best of both worlds – Experience and Compassion.
If you have any questions, please see contact information below.
Contact Kevin Kirkpatrick
Office: 817-633-6688 | Cell: 972-742-3003
email: Kevin.kirkpatrick@guardianpharmacy.net
Guardian Pharmacy Texas
**If you sign up for services with Guardian and mention "Twogether Consulting" to Kevin Kirkpatrick, you could receive up to 6 months of "paper" MARS (Medication Administration Review Sheets) for FREE!
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