Results Analysis - 2010-11 Annual Report

STRATEGY 5.1 Implement improvements to the PDD program to increase clarity, consistency, effectiveness and efficiency, and ensure the program’s long-term sustainability.

• In 2010-11 the Ministry commissioned a review of the PDD program to identify efficiencies and savings in program administration that can be redirected to front-line services for individuals. The review did not involve front-line services to individuals, but examined the internal administrative operations of the PDD program, including the provincial program branch, the PDD Community Boards and their directly operated facilities. The review also examined administration costs of the agencies contracted by the program to provide services to individuals. Implementation of the approved recommendations will begin in 2011-12.
• The Ministry held dialogue sessions with families/guardians of adults with a developmental disability to gather their views on flexibility within the contracting process. Based on this feedback, the Ministry implemented a single contract template to replace previous Family Managed Service Agreements. The new processes are designed to decrease administrative burden for families while maintaining the necessary level of accountability.

• To provide better supports to individuals with complex service needs, the Ministry analyzed training needs for service providers and families who support adults with complex service needs. The Ministry also worked with Alberta Health Services, and the ministries of Health and Wellness, Solicitor General and Public Security, Education, Advanced Education and Technology, and Employment and Immigration to develop a cross-ministry policy framework and an implementation plan to enhance the coordination and integration of services for adults with complex service needs.
• The Ministry continued to implement a common assessment tool for individuals receiving PDD program services that focuses on the needs of the individual and ensures people with developmental disabilities have the supports to achieve positive outcomes. As of March 31, 2011, over 2,900 individuals have been assessed using the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS), an objective assessment tool used internationally to determine support needs.
• The PDD Community Boards worked with government and community partners to enhance the capacity of communities to support adults with a developmental disability through activities such as promotion and facilitation of inclusive post-secondary education opportunities; workshops and presentations to raise awareness in communities; and engaging with self-advocates obtaining their input on aspects of the PDD program. Self advocacy is a way that individuals develop the skills and confidence to become as independent as possible.
• The PDD Community Boards facilitated individual leadership and self-advocacy activities such as Regional Community Leadership Awards for Self Advocacy and Family Leadership, a Self Advocate Leadership retreat and conferences for self advocates to support the goal of creating more inclusive communities.
• The Ministry created a Provincial Advisory Committee for the PDD program. Stakeholders include families, service providers, representatives from the Alberta Association for Community Living and the Alberta Council of Disability Services, as well as senior PDD program staff. The Advisory Committee will provide ongoing opportunities for the program to communicate with stakeholders and gather feedback on operational matters related to the PDD program.
• The Ministry improved clarity in the PDD program by posting PDD provincial policies online in an easy-to-navigate web-based system. This comprehensive information source replaces existing policy frameworks and other documents, and makes it easier for individuals, families and stakeholders to understand the program. Online policy information includes eligibility and assessment of service needs, types of supports provided by the PDD program, service delivery, appeals and contract administration.