Travel to Provide Essential HCBS

 RCIL has received calls from concerned Direct Support Workers regarding the need for travel documents while they are working for their consumer during “stay at home” ordered periods. RCIL has received official direction from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services that Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) are considered essential healthcare. KDADS said, “We are being assured by the Emergency Operations Center that there will be no widespread efforts to stop folks to ensure they are out and about for an “essential” reason. We have seen the letters that other industries have been issuing to their employees and we have been told those will not be necessary. At this time, I would just assure consumers and DSWs that they can perform their essential travel/duties. If something changes, we will let everyone know.”

RCIL has had direct communication with several local law enforcement agencies (City of Topeka Police Department, City of Burlington Police Department, etc.) and have been repeatedly reassured the individuals traveling in their cars or who are performing essential functions (grocery shopping, going to the pharmacy, etc.) will not be asked to provide paperwork regarding their essential functions.  If you are asked, “Where are you headed”, simply be honest and let them know you are providing essential home care duties.

 Direct Support Worker Background Checks

During this time of COVID-19 crisis (at least until May 1, 2020), RCIL will cover the cost of Direct Support Worker (DSW) background checks for NEWLY HIRED DSWs.  RCIL realizes that temporary or additional DSWs may need to be hired and this is one thing RCIL is doing to expedite the process.

Kansas Department for Aging and Disabilities Services (KDADS) is allowing DSWs to start working while the background checks are pending.  DSWs still need to complete the forms and submit them to RCIL.  The eligibility requirements still apply.  Individuals with prohibited offenses are not eligible to work as a DSW.  Click here to see the List of Prohibited Offenses:  http://rcilinc.org/dsw

Temporary HCBS Policy Changes Regarding Conflict of Interest

​KDADS is temporarily (for all waivers) allowing payment for Personal Care Services to family caregivers or legally responsible individuals, suspending the conflict of interest mitigation.  These services may be delivered in a person’s home or a temporary setting, including a family member’s home.  RCIL will still need to have completed DSW Hire Packets for these temporary situations so that we can issue wage payments.  As always, call 785-528-3105 to request packets.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for Home and Community Based Services

 RCIL asked Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) about how consumers and their Direct Support Workers (DSWs) can access Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) (gloves, masks, etc.) use while providing Personal Care Services and Enhanced Care Services.  KDADS said that consumers and DSWs could contact their local county emergency management or health department.  However, please keep in-mind that PPE is in incredibly short supply worldwide.  While those entities are serving as the hub for PPE and managing how it is distributed it is highly likely that they will not have PPE to distribute.  Please follow the safety measures already shared including heightened sanitation and social distancing whenever possible.

 RCIL Office Staffing

RCIL is working to provide the same great service consumers have come to expect but within the guidelines developed to prevent the spread of the virus.  All offices are closed to walk-in traffic and no home visits are being conducted however, RCIL is still hard at work behind the scenes while complying with the “10 or less” rule. RCIL’s Main Office in Osage City is working in shifts.  Our telephones are being answered live from 8:00 to 4:00, Monday-Friday but when call volume is high you may need to leave a voicemail.  Your call will be returned as quickly as possible.  Our Information and Referral services are also being provided.  RCIL’s phone number is 785-528-3105.

For payroll issues you may prefer to communicate with us by email:  payrollhelpdesk@rcilinc.org