Tools and Resources

Inside This Newsletter:

• Register for Upcoming Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A – November 16, 2023
• Receive a $100 Assessment Incentive 
• Sharing Your Feedback: A Case Manager Discusses Her SIS-A Experience
• Meet the SIS Team: Lisa Horan 
• Explore SIS-A Support Resources

The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) will host another informative Listening Session at 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET Thursday, November 16, 2023. It’s open for all Section 21 and 29 members, their families, guardians, as well as interested Waitlist members. If you were unable to attend the recent September 14 event, this session will provide another great opportunity to get updates and ask questions about the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults® (SIS-A) and current Lifespan Waiver planning. A reminder that the SIS-A is the assessment tool being used by OADS to gather data and develop the Lifespan Waiver. 
 
Click here to register for the Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A  
 

To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
 
A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf

REMINDER: $100 Assessment Incentive Still Available for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

If you or a member that you support has not taken the SIS-A assessment yet, there is a recent SIS-A member incentive to take the SIS-A right now. The SIS-A is high-quality data that helps inform the Person-Centered Planning process. It also provides OADS with support information for the design of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver. 

This SIS-A member incentive is available for people who are: 

• A Section 21 or 29 member or on the waitlist for these waivers
• Among the first 800 members who received an assessment
• A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated.

What does not qualify for the SIS-A member incentive include:

• Previously performed training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments. 
• Other SIS-A assessment attendees, like family members or guardians, do not qualify for this member-only incentive.  

Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? Click here to see frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the SIS-A assessment and the current incentive.

Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment:

Call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 

SHARING YOUR FEEDBACK: A Case Manager Discusses Her SIS-A Experience

OADS and the SIS-A team at Maximus appreciate all the continued feedback received from members, families, CCMs and others involved in the assessment process. We recently heard from LEAP (Life Enrichment Advancing People) Case Manager, Kelly DeRoche. Based in Farmington, Kelly has participated in several SIS-A assessments with Assessor, Donna Umbro over the past few months. She’s kindly shared some thoughts with us about her experiences. 

The assessment process was transparent and very easy. I have done several assessments with Donna and continue to be incredibly pleased. She is professional, thorough, and caring for the individuals that exhibit anxiety or concern with the process. The assessment continues to be a tool for me to learn new things about the individuals that I provide support for. This assessment is overall a wonderful experience. I hope it is effective in providing more person-centered support in the future. 

MEET THE TEAM: Lisa Horan, Operations Manager 

For this edition of “Meet the Team”, we introduce you to Operations Manager, Lisa Horan. In her role, Lisa works with all program stakeholders, and providing ongoing training for the Assessor team and providing support for Members, CCMs, family members, guardians, and others. 

Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role:
I have worked in the field of human services for over 30 years. I have a Master’s Degree in Special Education. I have worked for Maximus since 2015 and have worked with SIS since that time as a trainer.

What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
I provide support to all Maine SIS Assessors, so essentially cover the entire state in my role. 

What is your favorite part of the work you do?
I enjoy getting to meet so many different people. It is important to me to ensure that people have a meaningful experience during their SIS Assessments.

Where have you lived besides Maine – other states, countries?
Over the years, I have lived in seven states to include Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, and Texas. I have actually never lived in Maine.

TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports

• SIS-A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for members, family and other support team members – updated 10/27/23 
   
• SIS-A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for community case managers (CCMs)
   
• OADS Website - "A Path for ME" Needs Assessments
   
• SIS-A Assessment Report - AAIDD Sample
   
• OADS Presentation - Orientation to "A Path for ME" Needs Assessment
   
• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) Website
   
• Maine SIS-A Resources - Maximus Website

 
SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk

If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

• Phone: 833.771.4639    
• Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com  

In This Newsletter:

• Attend Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A – September 14, 2023
• Learn More About the New $100 Assessment Incentive 
• Meet the SIS Team: Siobhan Ahearn 
• Review SIS-A Support Resources

The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) invites Section 21 and 29 Members, their families and guardians, as well as Waitlist Members to attend the upcoming Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A. This event will take place at 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 14, 2023. It will give Members and their support teams an opportunity to learn about important Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ® (SIS-A) updates. They can also questions about the Lifespan Waiver planning and SIS-A processes. The SIS-A is the assessment tool being used by OADS to gather data and develop innovative new participant services. 
 
Click here to register for the Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A 
 
To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
 
A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf

FAQs: Learn More About the New $100 SIS-A Incentive Launched for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) uses the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ® (SIS-A) to support the design of an array of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver. The SIS-A is high-quality data that can also informs Person-Centered Planning process. We encourage all members to take the SIS-A. 
 
Read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below to learn more about this special offer.

Q: Who is eligible for the new Member Incentive for the SIS-A assessment?
 
A: There is a new SIS-A Member Incentive to take the SIS right now. The previous Maximus SIS-A Training assessment incentive ended on March 15, 2023. A new incentive for people interested in taking the SIS-A assessment was announced in late July 2023. It is available for those who are: 

 - A Section 21 or 29 member or be on the waitlist for these waivers. 

 - Among the first 800 members who received an assessment. 

 - A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated. 
​​​​​​​
The following do not qualify for the current SIS-A Member Incentive: Training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments. 

 - Other attendees at a SIS-A assessment do not qualify for this member-only incentive.  
 

Q: Does AAIDD allow the viewing of SIS-A questions ahead of time? 
 
A: Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment. Tell them you are also interested in the $100 Member Incentive: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 

Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? Click the link below to see these and other frequently asked questions.

Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated August 8, 2023 

Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com.  

Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated August 9, 2023

MEET THE TEAM: Siobhan Ahearn, Clinical Assessments Coordinator 

For this edition of “Meet the Team”, we introduce you to Clinical Assessments Coordinator I, Siobhan Ahearn. In her role, Siobhan gets to interact with all the individuals involved in the SIS-A process – from Member and Assessor to Community Case Manager and other vital team members who will attend the interview.
 

Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role:
 
Homecare: State Home Care - Developed and enhanced programs to support and maintain an individual’s independence while living in the community. Medical Social Worker with Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice: completing evaluations for care, emotional support, counseling, and continued case management. Director of Social Services for a Skilled Nursing Home Care and Assisted Living.

What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
Bangor to the north.

What is your favorite part of the work you do?
I enjoy encouraging individuals to realize their potential, looking at the positives.
 
Have you lived in other places besides Maine – other states, countries?
I’ve previously lived in Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, as well as time spent in UK, Spain, Germany, Philippines.

What are your dream vacation spots?
Dream destinations on my wish list include the Galapagos Islands, train ride across Canada, and finish hiking all of the U.S. National Parks.

REMINDER: The SIS-A Assessment Process Cycle      

TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports

• SIS-A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Community Case Managers (CCMs)
   
• OADS Website - "A Path for ME" Needs Assessments
   
• SIS-A Assessment Report - AAIDD Sample
   
• OADS Presentation - Orientation to "A Path for ME" Needs Assessment
   
• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) Website
   
• Maine SIS-A Resources - Maximus Website

SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
 
If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:
 

• Phone: 833.771.4639   
   
• Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com 

SIS-A ASSESSMENTS: $100 Incentive Launched for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members
 
The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) uses the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ^® (SIS-A) to support the design of the Lifespan Waiver. It is a waiver designed to offer a more comprehensive array of innovative service options. The SIS-A is high-quality data that can also inform the Person-Centered Planning process. We are encouraging Section 21, 29 and waitlist members to take the SIS-A. 
 
There is also a new SIS-A Member Incentive to take the SIS right now. The Maximus SIS-A Training assessment incentive ended on March 15, 2023. This is a different incentive program being offered now.
 
Maximus is pleased to announce this new SIS-A Member Incentive. The first 800 Section 21 or 29 or waitlist members who wish to participate will receive a one-time amount of $100. Those who already have a valid SIS-A will also receive $100.
 
Details:

• Individual must be a Section 21 or 29 member or be on the waitlist for these waivers.
   
• Individual must be among the first 800 members who received an assessment. Training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments.
   
• Other attendees at an assessment do not qualify for this member-only incentive. 
   
• The member will be compensated if they received a regular non-training assessment earlier in 2023 or fully completed a new assessment.  

Once Maximus completes 800 assessments, the incentive will end.
 
Community Case Managers will use the SIS-A to support the Person-Centered Planning process. It will also support the design of the Lifespan Waiver. This will be a new waiver that will offer new services and innovations to participants. Taking the SIS-A will not affect your current service options.
 
Your help is strongly encouraged and will also help the service system improve. 
 
Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 
 

INSIGHTS: How the SIS-A Supports Lifespan
 
Lifespan's goal is to better meet the needs of people across their whole lives. It would begin at age 14, and support people through end of life. Results from SIS-A assessments are important to help OADS to design future design service innovations in the Lifespan Project. They will help to help OADS better understand the unique needs of Mainers. They are a source of quality data for personal plans. 
 
In Lifespan, there are several system improvements that stakeholders have indicated are important to them. There are reasons to be excited about the possibilities. 

• One significant proposed service is financial support for transportation that is not medically related. In Maine, easier transportation means potential access to a wide range of activities. 
   
• Another significant proposed change is expanded options for self-direction. We are building on what we have started in Section 29. Support for self-direction will be stronger and have more options.
   
• Also, Lifespan proposes to add flexibility for how technology can support individuals.  

To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
 
A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf.

The SIS-A Assessment Process Cycle 
 

NEW FAQs: Prepping for a Supports Intensity Scale for Adults (SIS-A ^®) Assessment     

Q: Do people need to prepare prior to participating in the SIS-A? 

A: No. There is no specific preparation required other than knowing the person’s needs. The assessor will guide the process. A good understanding of the person’s needs is important. The assessment process should include people who know the person being assessed very well. Ideally, someone who has been with them in recent months to ensure an accurate picture of the person now. The member should also agree that everyone planning to attend are people they want to be there.

Q: Does AAIDD allow the viewing of SIS-A questions ahead of time? 

A: No. However, there is a sample report available on the Maximus website for review. This sample is helpful in understanding the types of results generated from the assessment. They are examples of the kinds of questions can be reviewed in advance. They can orient you as to the nature of the questions that will be asked.
 
Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A assessment process? Click the link below to see these and other frequently asked questions.

Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated June 29, 2023

MEET THE TEAM: Donna Umbro, Lead Coordinator

In the coming months, we will introduce you to members of the Maximus SIS-A Assessments team. In this edition, we speak with Lead Coordinator, Donna Umbro. Her role is critical in managing the team that coordinates the assessment locations, and dates/times with members, assessors, and others who will attend the SIS-A interview.

Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role: 
I have case management experience working with adults with disabilities, as well as children with disabilities. I also worked in a group home with adults with intellectual disabilities.
 
What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
I work in Lewiston Maine and the surrounding areas.
 
What is your favorite part of the work you do?
I really enjoy meeting families and individuals. 
 
Have you lived in other places besides Maine – other states, countries?
In addition to Maine, I’ve lived in Ohio and Virginia for small periods of time.  

TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports

• SIS-A Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Community Case Managers (CCMs)
• OADS Website - "A Path for ME" Needs Assessments
• SIS-A Assessment Report - AAIDD Sample
• Maine SIS-A Resources - Maximus Website
• OADS Presentation - Orientation to "A Path for ME" Needs Assessment
• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) Website

SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
 
If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

• Phone: 833.771.4639   
   
• Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com 
   

The implementation of the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults (SIS-A ®) assessment tool recently reached an important milestone with its official launch on March 1, 2023. Thank you to everyone who has continued to assist OADS and Maximus in helping coordinate and attend the training assessments conducted over the past several weeks. 
 
Continue reading below to explore the new SIS-A Overview guide and additional resources. Learn more about the importance of the SIS-A process for members, as well as a tool to help OADS understand the unique needs of Mainers with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)/Autism.
 
The SIS-A Report also provides invaluable details to help you in developing the member’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP).
 
Download a sample AAIDD SIS-A Report here.
 

“A Path for ME” SIS- A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline
 

Q&A: Understanding the Lifespan Waiver and the Role of SIS-A 

Why is the Lifespan Waiver being developed?
Lifespan is a response to many concerns the department has heard about the current service system. To provide innovative ways to meet needs, OADS must understand the needs of everyone currently served in the system.

What is the SIS-A?
The SIS-A is a comprehensive planning tool that measures support needs in the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, social activities, and exceptional medical and behavioral support needs. In addition to the vital role this needs data will provide for the design and support of the Lifespan waiver. 

What are the benefits of the SIS-A?

Members and Families
Completing a SIS assessment provides an opportunity for current waiver members’ Circle of Support in one meeting. needs to be captured and empower them to plan and successfully meet their goals. 
 
Community Case Managers (CCMs) 
The SIS-A interview, coordinated by Maximus, is an opportunity to bring together the member’s Circle of Support in one meeting. This powerful discussion about needs, goals and strengths helps to directly inform the Person-Centered Plan. The SIS-A assessment provides a clear, comprehensive report covering a broad range of support needs which maps to the member’s Plan by:

• Spotlighting the nuance between what is “Important To” and “Important For” the member
• Gathering valuable information for the “Charting the Lifecourse” framework

OADS
SIS-A assessments will play a critical part in helping OADS understand the unique needs of Mainers with IDD/Autism. The high-quality needs data gathered through these assessments will ensure that system improvements through Lifespan can be made to best meet those needs.

NEW RESOURCE: SIS-A Overview

A helpful new reference guide has been developed to walk stakeholders through some key basics about the SIS-A Assessment process, including:

• The purpose of the assessment
• How it measures support needs 
• Who should participate 
• Detailed visual workflow

Click here to download the SIS-A Overview


TOOLKIT: SIS-A Guides & Supports

• Mapping the "Charting the Lifecourse Framework" with the Data from the SIS-A | Download - New 
   
• Community Case Manager (CCM) - FAQs | Download - New 
   
• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) | Explore the SIS-A and review support guides for training assessments 
   
• OADS Presentation: Orientation to “A Path for ME” Needs Assessment | Download   
   
• OADS Website: Learn more about "A Path for ME" Needs Assessments and the SIS-A Implementation Project | Learn More 
   
• SIS Assessments – General FAQs |Download - Updated
   

SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
 
If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

• Phone: 833.771.4639   
   
• Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com 

Sign up for the Maximus SIS-A Assessment Mailing List: 
 
Send an email to: Maine-SIS@maximus.com. Use the subject line “Add to the Maine SIS Mailing List” and include the following information in the body of your message for all members of your team who should be added to the mailing list: full name, title, facility/organization, email address.

The State of Maine – Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) and selected partner, Maximus, continue to move toward their planned Mid-Spring 2023 implementation of the Supports Intensity Scale assessment tool (SIS-A)2nd edition. Developed and maintained by the Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD), the SIS-A is a comprehensive planning tool that measures support needs in the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, and social activities and exceptional medical and behavioral support needs. OADS plans to use SIS-A data to develop a new waiver program through the "A Path for ME" initiative. Maximus will provide conflict-free administration of the SIS-A. 

Read below for an overview of the SIS-A assessment process, including a timeline, reminders about initial training assessments, helpful resources, and program support contacts.

“A Path for ME” SIS- A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline

PROCESS OVERVIEW: Basics of the SIS-A Assessment

Before the Assessment 

A scheduler will contact the case manager and guardian (if applicable) to schedule a date, time, and location that works best. The scheduler will also ask if others should be invited to the assessment. Those who participate in the assessment are called respondents. 

The SIS requires at least two qualified respondents. A qualified respondent must have known the person for 3+ months and be able to speak to their day-to-day support needs. Respondents will talk about the types of supports the member needs to be successful. They must attend for the whole assessment. It can take 2 to 3 hours. 

To ensure the best results from the SIS-A and out of respect for the member’s privacy, it's critical to have the full attention and active participation of all respondents during the assessment. This includes the exclusion of the use of any outside electronics, such as cell phones, laptops, or recording devices.

During the Assessment 

The interviewer will explain the process to everyone at the assessment. It’s important that the member attend, if only part of the time. If the member cannot attend, the interviewer will schedule a time to meet them in person prior to the assessment. 

After the Assessment 

Once the assessment is completed, members will: 

• Get their SIS-A results from case manager, by e-mail or mail. 
• Get ready for their Person-Centered Planning meetings. 
• Attend their Person-Centered Planning meetings.

The person-centered information gathered during the assessment process will assist case managers and case management providers with greater clarity around members’ day-to-day support needs. 

Case managers can use the information from the SIS assessment for greater understanding around the frequency and type of support needed. Information from the SIS assessment may also assist with developing goals.
  

REMINDER: Currently Seeking Members to Volunteer for Training Assessments

As shared previously, there is an initial training phase for SIS assessors which began on February 1, 2023. During this period, $100 stipends may be provided to participating members and up to two nonpaid respondents for training assessments, such as family members and friends.

If you know a member who would be interested in volunteering to participate in a training assessment, call the Help Desk: 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com with the subject line, “Member interested in SIS training assessment participation”.

TOOLKIT: SIS Resources

• American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) | Explore the SIS-A and review support guides for training assessments
• OADS Presentation: Orientation to “A Path for ME” Needs Assessment | Download  
• OADS Website: Learn more about “A Path for ME” Needs Assessments and the SIS-A Implementation Project | Learn more
• SIS Assessments – FAQs | Download 

SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk

Do you have other SIS assessment related questions? Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

Phone: 833.771.4639  

Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com

Program updates and support information are also available on the OADS website, as well as the newly launched Maximus – Maine SIS Assessments tools and resources page. Bookmark these helpful sites and check back to them for frequent updates in the months ahead.

Sign up for the SIS Assessment Mailing Lists: 
Review the instructions and click one or both links below to stay updated on all the latest program updates and new resources available.

Receive program updates from Maximus: Send an email to: Maine-SIS@maximus.com.
Use the subject line “Add to the Maine SIS Mailing List” and include the following information in the body of your message for all members of your team who should be added to the mailing list: full name, title, facility/organization, email address.

Receive program updates from OADS: Go to the Office of Aging and Disability Services | Department of Health and Human Services (maine.gov) website and enter your email address in the available field to Receive Updates by Email. You will see options listed for various State offices and programs. Select the checkboxes for the OADS information most relevant to you, then follow the prompts to complete your mailing list setup. 

LEARN MORE: Who is Maximus? 

Maximus has extensive experience partnering with state, federal and local governments to administer conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions. This includes current management of the State of Maine – Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs. 

Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities.

As shared in recent communications by the State of Maine – Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS), a new program under the “A Path for ME” umbrella is launching the use of the Supports Intensity Scale assessment tool (SIS-A) 2nd edition, with the selected vendor, Maximus, in Mid-Spring 2023. Maximus will provide conflict-free administration of the program’s standardized assessment tool. This tool is developed and maintained by the Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD). The SIS-A is a comprehensive planning tool that measures support needs in the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, and social activities and exceptional medical and behavioral support needs.  
 
In the months ahead, Maximus and OADS will provide new updates and resources for stakeholders across the state who will support the SIS-A Needs Assessment. Read below to learn some basics about the implementation and next steps in the process, as well as explore some helpful reference guides, contact details for the SIS Assessments Help Desk, and the new program web page. Also included is a visual progress tracker for an at-a-glance view of key milestones for “A Path for ME” SIS-A Assessments and the Lifespan Project transition timeline. 

“A Path for ME” SIS- A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline
 

Q&A: Understanding the SIS-A Assessment

Q: Why is this new program being created?  

A: The initial intent of the SIS-A is to gather data from the assessments to better understand the population served and provide information to guide future service design enhancements to offer innovations in member supports, empower self-direction, and grow community inclusion through services attuned to different needs across the full membership lifespan through the Lifespan Project.   
  
Q: Who should participate in the assessment?  
  
A: Participants must include the member and at least two people who have known the member being assessed for at least 3 months and can speak to the members day-to-day support needs. These can be the member, and/or family members, friends, direct support, or staff from residential or day service providers. The community case manager should also attend.  
  
Q: Is the assessment required?  
  
A: Participation will be voluntary during the implementation phase between February 2023 and January 1, 2025. It is strongly encouraged to better understand how the information gained through the SIS assessment will be used to generate high quality data for both the person-centered planning process as well as to support the long-term system innovations being developed for the Lifespan Project.   

Q: Is there a transitional training period before the SIS assessments officially launches in Maine? 
 
A: Yes. There will be an initial training assessments phase of the program, planned for February 1 through March 15, 2023. During this period, $100 stipends may be provided to participating members and up to two nonpaid assessment respondents, such as family members and friends.  
 
If you know a member who would be interested in volunteering to participate in a training assessment, call: 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com with the subject line, “Member interested in SIS training assessment participation”. 
  
Q: What are some of the benefits of the SIS assessment? 
  
A: For Members and their families, productive conversations lead to decisions on the most appropriate services for the individual, to meet identified needs and move toward goals and desired outcomes.   
 
Community Case Managers can receive in-depth reporting on the kinds of needs a person has, the frequency and amount of support a person needs, as well as goals and objectives of the member  
 
Providers benefit from the gathering of person-centered information regarding day-to-day support needs, including support from provider services.   

RESOURCES: Review “A Path for ME” Presentation + SIS Frequently Asked Questions 
 
OADS hosted several informative orientation sessions in December, which provided an overview for “A Path for ME”, the SIS-A assessment, and a previous of the implementation timeline and next steps. If you were unable to attend or would like to review the information again, click the links below to review the presentation and explore an initial list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) about SIS assessment processes and support.  
 

• OADS Presentation: Orientation to “A Path for ME” Needs Assessment | Download  
   
• SIS Assessments – FAQs | Download  

SUPPORT: Introducing the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk  
 
In addition to the resources available about “A Path for ME” and the SIS-A assessment available on the OADS website, Maximus has recently launched a new Maine SIS Assessments tools and resources page, which will provide a growing list of comprehensive program resources, frequently asked questions (FAQs), and other helpful support information. Click the link to bookmark the page: https://maximusclinicalservices.com/svcs/maine_sis and check back to the site periodically for updates. 
 
A dedicated Help Desk phone line and support email address have also been created to give you additional options to receive support and find answers to your SIS-related questions. Be sure to note these contacts for future reference: 

Phone: 833.771.4639 | Email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com  
 
Sign up for the SIS Assessment Mailing Lists: Click one or both of the links below to stay updated on all the latest program updates and new resources. Include the following information for all members of your team who should to be added to the mailing list: full name, title, facility/organization, email address.  

Receive program updates from Maximus: Email Maine-SIS@maximus.com with the subject line: “Please add me to the Maximus – SIS Assessment Mailing List”  
 
Receive program updates from OADS: Email OADS.NAproject@maine.gov with the subject line: “Please add me to the OADS – SIS Assessment Mailing List”   

INSIGHTS: Who is Maximus?  
  
For over 40 years, Maximus has partnered with state, federal and local governments across the country to administer complex programs that provide individuals with the appropriate care and resources necessary to improve their quality of life. The company has extensive experience in conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions. This includes current management of the State of Maine – Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs.  
 
Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities.