The seven incredible benefits ABA therapy can offer your child with developmental changes include the following:

1. Personalized Therapy Plan

Each child has specific needs regarding their personal development, and ABA therapy focuses on each child individually. One trained therapist will sit down with you and your child to determine the best way ahead. This individual approach ensures that your child will receive targeted support, making the therapy more effective and relevant to their unique circumstances. You will discuss your child’s history, needs, and concerns as a parent regarding the plan to set for your child. As time progresses, you can supply feedback, and with observation, the therapist will keep you updated and adjust the plan to meet new goals as the child gains more skills.

2. Comprehensive Coverage of Child’s Challenges

ABA covers a wide range of potential issues to support your child. The therapist breaks down a child’s complex skills and behavior into smaller, more manageable parts. The therapist focuses on those parts by teaching them systematically, using various methods and evidence-based best practice treatments. “Evidence-based “means that ABA has passed the test of the therapy’s usefulness, quality and effectiveness. The techniques used focus on what happens before a behavior occurs and what happens after the behavior. The therapist works on verbal, motor, play, social, or cognitive improvements, and it is specific for each child with particular behavior in the child’s life.

3. Treatment Locations

ABA therapists look at different types of behaviors during a session. This means the treatment can be provided in various locations. It can be offered at home, at a clinic, or in the community. You can choose where the treatment should occur, making bringing your child to therapy easier. A child could also act differently in different locations, and the therapist can observe the child in various places, assisting the therapist in determining which skills to focus on during a session and teaching skills useful for everyday life.

4. Communication Improvement

Many children with developmental difficulties struggle to express themselves regarding emotions and feelings. This inability to communicate can change their behavior. They can go into a rage, get frustrated because they cannot form the right words, or they won’t make eye contact. One of the ABA therapy benefits is improvement in communication. The therapy sessions are structured in such a way that the child has the opportunity to do fun activities, repeat positive behavior, and receive praise. This builds self-confidence to communicate and participate fully in the therapy sessions. Communication becomes a tool for the child to interact with others, make their needs known, and control their immediate environment.

5. Increase their Internal Motivation

With ABA therapy, your child’s behavior will change. The skills needed to handle daily life will improve, and your child will become more competent to live a happy life. The therapy works because it focuses on the actual skill and changed behavior. The newly acquired skills become ingrained in the child’s daily coping skills. The therapist helps your child have the courage to move outside the comfort zone and try new things. This internal motivation is strengthened through positive feedback and praise when the desired behavior and actions are taken. Your child’s independence, self-care, and coping skills will grow, allowing more effective functionality in new situations.

6. Creating a Safe Environment

Through ABA therapy, the child will become less anxious and scared. The fear of punishment, not getting something right, or being unable to try something new will cease. The more the child’s confidence grows because of positive feedback and praise, the more positive the behavior will be. The child will feel safe and secure to explore, even doing basic tasks the parent previously had to do. Encouraged behavior and positive feedback instil the feeling of safety to try new things, and progress is visible in the child’s life.

7. Lasting Results

Changed behavior follows ongoing ABA therapy. New and adaptive skills are learnt, and continue to build on the newly acquired skills. The fundamentals are changed for the child as the foundation for new and desired behavior, and the child experiences positive results. The improvement is evident in the child’s behavior and a more productive, happy life!

Early intervention is vital for children with developmental challenges. ABA therapy offers a highly effective approach with long-lasting improvements. At Progen Care, we can assist you in finding the right ABA therapist for your child. Get in touch with us to start this life-changing therapy for your child.

The post 7 Incredible Benefits of ABA Therapy for Children appeared first on Progen Care.

We will address what the C-YES Program is, how to know if you’re eligible and what the enrollment process involves.

What is the C-YES Program?

The Children and Youth Evaluation Service (C-YES) program is a statewide initiative in New York State that aims to provide Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) to children and youth under the age of 21.

C-YES acts as a conflict-free program that provides person-centered Plan of Care (POC) development and HCBS service coordination. Its primary goal is to perform unbiased HCBS eligibility determinations and assist families throughout the eligibility process. By accessing the C-YES Program, families can ensure that their child receives the necessary support to remain in their homes and communities while avoiding the need for institutional-level care.

How do you know if you’re eligible?

Eligibility for the C-YES Program is not limited to those who already have Medicaid coverage. Any child or youth under the age of 21 who wants or needs Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) can be referred for HCBS eligibility determination, regardless of their current Medicaid status. This means that even if Medicaid does not cover your child, they can still be considered for the C-YES Program.

It’s important to note that if your child is already enrolled in Medicaid and is in need of HCBS, they may be referred to Health Home for HCBS eligibility determination and care management. However, if your child prefers not to receive Health Home care management, they have the option to opt out and have C-YES provide their HCBS care coordination instead. Care coordination from either Health Home or C-YES is necessary for children and youth eligible and enrolled in HCBS.

Remember, the primary goal is to ensure your child has access to the appropriate services and support to thrive in their home and community. The C-YES Program is designed to facilitate this process and provide comprehensive care coordination tailored to your child’s needs.

How the C-YES Program works

Referral to C-YES

The first step in the C-YES process is to submit a referral form. This form requires essential information such as your child’s name, primary contact, and consent signature. Although not mandatory, including additional details like your child’s Social Security Number and any supporting documents is highly encouraged.

Referral Received

After submitting the referral form, C-YES will acknowledge the receipt of your referral. They will then make progressive attempts to contact you, confirming your interest in proceeding with the program. During this stage, you will receive information about the C-YES process, roles, and expectations.

Informational Visit

Following the referral confirmation, a nurse evaluator from C-YES will conduct an informational visit. This visit serves to educate you on the eligibility process for HCBS and the available care management options. Additionally, consent forms will be completed, and any required documentation to support the eligibility determination will be collected.

Preparation for HCBS Eligibility Determination

C-YES will work with you and contact providers if necessary to gather all the required documents for the HCBS eligibility determination process. Once all the supporting documentation is received, an appointment will be scheduled for the HCBS eligibility determination visit.

HCBS Eligibility Visit

During the HCBS eligibility visit, a nurse evaluator will use the Uniform Assessment System (UAS) to determine your child’s eligibility for HCBS. The outcome of the assessment will be provided to you, and if your child is eligible, the next steps will be discussed. In the event that your child is deemed ineligible, you will be informed about the appeal and fair hearing process, as well as alternative service options.

Progen Care understands how overwhelming it can be to find the right care for children, which is why we work to eliminate some of the stress. Get in touch with us and we can help you use the C-YES Program to get your child, student or ward the HCBS resources they need.

The post What Makes the C-Yes Program an Ideal Option for Your Child? appeared first on Progen Care.

Asian special teenager boy on wheelchair is smiling happiness face holding bubble gun toy on nature outdoor, Happy disabled kid travel and mental healthy concept.

That’s why it’s so important that initiatives such as New York State’s Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) exist. In this blog, we will discuss the services available to children with disabilities and what it takes to gain access to them.

What OPWDD Services does NYS offer?

Male psychologist working with little boy in office. Autism concept

OPWDD aims to empower children to live independently, engage in meaningful activities, build relationships within their communities, and maintain good health. The services offered include:

Respite

Respite services offered by OPWDD give short-term relief for caregivers, allowing them to take breaks and attend to personal needs while ensuring their children’s well-being. These services are provided in various settings, including in-home, camp, recreational facilities, and site-based locations. Families can choose the option that best suits their child’s needs and their own preferences.

Care Coordination

Care coordinators work closely with families to identify their child’s needs, develop personalized care plans, and connect them with appropriate services and resources. The care coordination process involves regular assessments and evaluations to ensure the child’s evolving needs are met. Care coordinators act as advocates for families, helping them navigate the complexities of the system and make informed decisions about their child’s care.

Self-Direction

This service allows families to manage and direct their services, tailoring them to their child’s specific requirements. Families have the freedom to choose their service providers, including caregivers and therapists, enabling them to create a support system that best meets their child’s needs.

Environmental Modifications

Children with developmental disabilities may face challenges in accessing and navigating their living spaces. To enhance their safety and independence, OPWDD offers environmental modifications that adapt homes to meet their specific needs. These modifications can include wheelchair ramps, handrails, widened doorways, and other adjustments that promote accessibility and a supportive living environment.

Crisis Services

OPWDD’s crisis services provide timely support during situations that require immediate attention. These services may include counseling, intervention, and guidance on managing crisis situations effectively. Families can access crisis services by contacting OPWDD or their assigned care coordinator.

Assistive Technology

OPWDD offers a range of assistive devices, such as communication boards, adaptive computer software, and mobility aids, tailored to each child’s unique needs. By providing access to assistive technology, OPWDD empowers children to engage more actively with their surroundings and communicate effectively with others. The supportive tools open doors to learning and social opportunities, enabling children to participate more fully in various activities.

Residential Care

For some children with developmental disabilities, residential care may be the best option to receive comprehensive support and care. OPWDD provides various residential care settings, including group homes and supervised community residences, offering 24/7 care in a nurturing environment.

How Does Eligibility Work?

To be eligible for OPWDD’s services, your child needs to be insured through Medicaid. In addition, they must have a developmental disability that occurred before the age of 22 and is expected to continue indefinitely or permanently. Finally, the disability should significantly hinder the child’s ability to function normally in society.

How Can You Get Started?

The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities has a three-step process for onboarding New York State residents for their services.

1. Determine Eligibility – An assessment of your child’s medical history and current condition will be conducted to establish eligibility.
2. Evaluate Your Needs – Your child’s specific needs and goals are evaluated in collaboration with care providers and professionals.
3. Learn About Services – Families are encouraged to explore various options designed for children.

Do you think your child could benefit from NYS’s OPWDD Services? We can help you access the care you need. Learn more about the Progen Care journey and contact us to get started.

The post Empowering Children: A Comprehensive Guide to OWPDD Services appeared first on Progen Care.

Caucasian father jogging while smiling teenage son with cerebral palsy riding bicycle on path in sunny park. Family relationship and enjoy time together. Disability care, treatment and rehabilitation

In New York State, HCBS Programs are free to children and families who met the qualifying criteria. Here’s everything you can expect to be included in these programs, how they benefit children, and what parents and guardians need to be aware of. 

What Services Are Included in HCBS Programs

Data in tablet. Energetic cheerful male doctor grinning while showing tablet to boy and sitting

HCBS Programs don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach to providing services. What a child, family, or community receives will depend on the child’s unique challenges and the dynamics of their environment. However, on a broad level, HCBS programs should services that fall within these categories. 

Medical and Healthcare Services

• Regular medical check-ups
• Medication management
• Nursing care
• Rehabilitation services
• Specialized treatments (e.g., chemotherapy, dialysis)
• Assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs)
• Chronic disease management

Therapeutic Services

• Physical therapy
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Cognitive therapy
• Sensory integration therapy
• ABA (Applied Behavior Analysis) therapy
• Play therapy

Educational Support

• Tutoring
• Individualized instruction
• Special education services
• Assistive technology assessment and implementation
• Accommodations and modifications in the classroom
• IEP (Individualized Education Program) development and monitoring
• Transition planning and support

Social and Recreational Activities

• Community-based events and outings
• Group recreational activities (e.g., sports, arts and crafts)
• Social skills training
• Peer support groups
• Summer camps and enrichment programs
• Adaptive sports and inclusive recreation
• Music, art, and dance therapy

Family Support Services 

• Counseling and therapy for family members
• Respite care (temporary relief for caregivers)
• Parent training and education
• Support groups for parents and siblings
• Care coordination and case management
• Assistance with navigating support systems and resources
• Financial and legal guidance for families
• Advocacy services

How HCBS Programs Improve Children’s Lives

Hispanic pre-teen boy sitting at table working with his home school tutor, smiling at each other

HCBS programs can give children a better quality of life and address personal, interpersonal, and systemic challenges in a number of ways. These are some of the key benefits. 

Increasing Independence

Therapy and other forms of at-home or community-based assistance can give children the confidence they need to manage daily tasks, educational activities, and social interactions.

Better Overall Well-Being

HCBS programs significantly impact mental and physical well-being by taking of children’s healthcare needs. This can also include preventive care or the management of chronic illness symptoms. 

Improved Sociability and Community Ties

Social service providers such as counselors, family therapists, and advocates play an important role in making children feel like valued members of their communities, thereby enabling them to connect with peers and form bonds with other people in stress-free ways.

Enhanced Educational Support

Children with learning difficulties get the resources they need to overcome their limitations and achieve their educational goals.

Factors Parents and Guardians Consider

Young black boy playing on dads back in a garden, low angle

Parents, educators, guardians, and wards need to be careful when seeking HCBS programs for children and families. Start by paying attention to these factors.

Qualification 

HCBS services can be free, but only if certain conditions are met. In New York State, children under 21 qualify if they have a diagnosis from a licensed professional and have (or have applied for) some form of out-of-home placement or are multi-system involved. 

Accreditations

It’s essential that the providers of each of the services in the HCBS program you’re considering have the necessary accreditations. Ensure you conduct comprehensive research online or through interviews. 

Finances and Funding Options

As discussed, HCBS services can be free if you qualify but can also come at a cost. It’s essential to know what is available for your child and your family so you don’t pay if you don’t have to.

Are you curious to know which HCBS programs your child and family could benefit from and how to get started? Get in touch with Progen Care, and we’ll closely examine your situation and connect you to the best resources available. 

The post The Power of HCBS Programs: Transforming Children’s Lives appeared first on Progen Care.

The good news: there’s a solution to be found in hiring a staffing company. While finding qualified and willing employees during a workforce shortage can be overwhelming for practice, hospital, and health center managers, it’s exactly the type of challenge hiring companies are equipped to handle. In this blog, we’ll expand on the pros and cons of hiring a staffing company so you are well aware of what to expect.

Pros of Hiring a Staffing Company

Stress-Free Management

Smiling young african american businessman relaxing, stretching his back at workplace in modern office. Taking a break from heavy workflow, chilling after positive meeting, finished project concept.

The main benefit of hiring a staffing company is that you no longer have to manage the recruiting process yourself. This frees you up as a manager to focus on other aspects of running a healthcare facility while ensuring that staffing needs are met. A staffing company can handle all of the administrative work of employee management including onboarding, payroll, benefits, and vacation time.

Access a Large Pool of Candidates

Staffing companies have vast databases of candidates, whereas you might only have historical resumes of people who have applied to your healthcare facility in the past. When you work with a staffing company you have access to more jobseekers, which maximizes your chances of finding suitable candidates.

Flexible Hiring

There will come a time when you need to hire someone at the last minute or you only need someone for a short period like a weekend – a staffing company can accommodate this. Staffing companies are connected to enough candidates to meet flexible hiring needs such as during surge periods or for the purposes of a temporary project.

Thorough Vetting Processes

Middle eastern and caucasian ethnicity businessmen seated on armchair in modern office talking solve common issues, banker telling to client regarding bank services make recommendations and consulting

Professionals with up-to-date and relevant credentials are essential in all parts of the healthcare industry but vetting is a time-consuming process. Staffing companies make it their priority to confirm and update the qualifications of all the candidates that they engage with. This ensures that your facility will always be compliant with regulations when hiring without wasting limited internal resources on credentialing.

Happier Employees and Healthier Patients

Male psychologist working with little boy in office. Autism concept

Ultimately, working with a staffing company ensures that the employees you have and the ones you hire all have a balanced workload and support. This way, no one is burnt out and tempted to pursue a different career. Patient outcomes are also vastly improved when employees have better job satisfaction.

Cons of Hiring a Staffing Company

Potential Culture Mismatches

It’s not common, but sometimes candidates with the right skills might not be a good culture fit for an organization. This can be caused by regional differences, unmet job expectations, or being trained in an environment that’s completely different from the one a candidate is expected to work. Culture mismatches can be minor but sometimes they can interfere with job satisfaction.

Dependency on Third-Party Staff

Once you get used to a staffing company, you might find that it’s the only way you prefer to hire. This could leave your organization dependent on third-party staff or no longer able to fulfill your staffing requirements using traditional hiring practices. If you’ve found the perfect staffing company, this is less of a problem and more of a beginning of a long-term partnership.

Low Employee Retention

Resign From Job Or Fired Employee Moving Out Of Office

Employees that are placed by staffing companies are rarely ever looking for permanent opportunities. Most are looking for seasonal employment or other types of flexible arrangements, meaning that organizations that hire them have low employee retention rates. This doesn’t mean they’re short-staffed, however, because they always have enough employees but it’s never the same faces for too long.

Not All Staffing Companies Are The Same

Unfortunately, you’re not guaranteed success with every staffing company on the market. They charge different costs for different services, some aren’t as thorough at credentialing, while others have smaller pools of candidates than the rest. Looking for the right staffing company is almost as onerous as looking for staff, except once you find the ideal staffing company for your needs, you never have to look again.

Get It Right The First Time (And Every Time) With Progen

Joy family art, happy father and son show hands in bright colors, paint together picture, art for whole family, cheerful drawing teacher. Home education with parents. Happy childhood. Hands in paint

We are committed to supporting healthcare providers with highly qualified employees to handle their intakes and other essential tasks throughout the five boroughs of New York City and Westchester County. Our streamlined process ensures that we tailor-fit solutions to meet the specific needs of each company we work with.

Contact us and we’ll help you find the perfect employees to serve your patients with exceptional care and efficiency.

The post The Pros and Cons of Hiring a Staffing Company appeared first on Progen Care.

 What exactly is Autism?

Autism, or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is a developmental disorder that affects social interaction, communication, and behavior.  It typically appears in the first three years of life and is characterized by a wide range of symptoms and severity levels. Because Autism is a spectrum disorder, not all people living with Autism will experience it the same. Children living with Autism may have a variety of potential differences, skills, and levels of ability. ASD is an umbrella term that covers the different levels of Autism. In essence, Autism is just a disorder that makes your child act differently from other kids.

General Symptoms of Autism

Symptoms of Autism range from communication problems to restricted or repetitive behaviors that interfere with daily life. These symptoms also change as children get older.  Common symptoms include the following:

• Avoids or does not keep eye contact.
• Not smiling back when you smile at them.
• Not responding to their names 9 months of age.
• Not showing facial expressions like happy, sad, angry, and surprised by 9 months of age.
• Delayed language and movement skills.
• Uses few or no gestures by 12 months of age (for example, does not wave goodbye).
• Unusual eating and sleeping habits.

As they get older the following symptoms can also appear:

• Not sharing interests with others by 15 months of age (for example, shows you an object that they like).
• Not reacting to something interesting at 18 months of age.
• Plays with toys the same way every time.
• Lines up toys or other objects and gets upset when the order is changed.
• Must follow certain routines.
• Has obsessive interests.
• Not joining other children in play by 3 years of age.
• Not playing imaginative games, like being a superhero, during play by 4 years of age.
• Does not sing, dance, or act for you by 5 years of age.
• Repeats words or phrases over and over (called echolalia).
• Is focused on parts of objects (for example, wheels).
• Gets upset by minor changes.
• Not noticing others are hurt or upset by 24 years of age.
• Flaps hands, rocks body, or spins self in circles.
• Has unusual reactions to the way things sound, smell, taste, look, or feel.

Diagnosis

Because there are no medical tests to diagnose Autism, getting a diagnosis can be challenging.  Doctors typically look at the development and the behavior of the child to make a diagnosis. What you as the parent can do to help is to take note of at which ages your child reaches certain milestones – like crawling, walking, talking, etc. You can also write down other behavior that seems to be different from other children. These can then be discussed with a doctor. It is important to diagnose Autism as soon as possible to give your child the correct support early on. However, a reliable diagnosis can only be done at the age of two.

Parenting a child with Autism

Parenting a child with Autism can seem overwhelming. You are not alone, and help is available. Your child may even qualify for free professional support services up until the age of 21. Finding out which services your child qualifies for can be complicated, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Progen Care is here to help. We will help you find out what services your child qualified for, and we will guide you step by step on this journey. Contact us now to empower your child for a lifetime of growth and success.

The post Empowering Parents: A Guide to Detecting Autism in Your Child and Seeking Help appeared first on Progen Care.

In this blog, we’ll cover each of the CFTSS Services and how they give families and communities the empowerment they need to cater to children’s unique needs.

Licensed Practitioner Counseling

This service is provided by licensed professionals who are trained to assess, diagnose and treat a range of mental and behavioral conditions in children and their families. Practitioners include licensed psychologists, psychoanalysts, clinical social workers, marriage and family therapists, mental health counselors, social workers, psychiatrists, and licensed creative arts therapists.

Counseling involves a range of methods such as helping children and families deal with emotional challenges, learn practical coping strategies, build better communication, and foster positive relationships.

Crisis Intervention

Crisis intervention is often necessary when there is emergent or immediate care needed for children. These situations can include (but are not limited to) self-harm, suicidal behavior, exposure to any form of abuse or neglect, violent outbursts, and substance abuse. This is a mobile or at-home service rendered by qualified clinicians.

The point of crisis intervention is to interrupt whatever negative situation is causing distress and start remedying it as soon as possible. Providers are also trained to help children and families cope with the emotional and mental consequences of the crisis situation, and to prevent future crises.

Community Psychiatric Supports and Treatment

Community Psychiatric Supports and Treatment (CPST) is a service that provides support for children and families based in the community where they live as opposed to a clinical or office setting. It helps children gain the confidence to exist within their communities while getting the aid they need to live well-supported lives.

This service may include counseling, skill-building activities, case management, advocacy, and assistance in accessing community resources and services.

Psychosocial Rehabilitation

Psychosocial rehabilitation aims to restore, rehabilitate and support children as active and productive members of their families and communities. Professionals work collaboratively with children and families to ensure that they are enhancing the social, emotional, and cognitive functioning of children with mental health conditions.

A range of treatments falls within the ambit of psychosocial rehabilitation such as individual or group counseling, play therapy, social skills training, educational support, and assistance with everyday tasks.

Family Peer Support Services

Family Peer Support Services involve the provision of guidance, understanding, and support to families who have a child with mental health challenges. Family peer support workers, who have their own lived experience of raising a child with mental health needs, work closely with families to offer empathy, practical knowledge, and emotional support.

The ultimate goal is to empower families, reduce isolation, improve family communication, and enhance the overall well-being of both children and their families.

Youth Peer Support

Youth Peer Support is a service specifically designed for young individuals who are facing mental health challenges. It provides a safe and supportive environment where young people can connect with trained youth peer support workers who have their own personal experiences with mental health issues.

Support workers provide guidance, encouragement, and role-modeling, helping young people develop coping strategies, build resilience, and navigate their mental health journey.

Do you believe that your child, ward or student could benefit from any of the services discussed in this blog? Contact Progen Care and we help you find out if you qualify and connect you to providers in your area.

The post Top 5 CFTSS Services for Children’s Growth Success appeared first on Progen Care.

Most people are not aware that NYS offers these services and whether or not they are eligible for them, which is why we think it’s important to start with education. Let’s explain each of the NYS services, how to qualify, and what services you can expect.

Children and Family Treatment Support Services (CFTSS)

Children and Family Treatment Support Services (CFTSS) is a program aimed at giving support to children with mental health, emotional and behavioral challenges, and their families. CFTSS offers a range of services, including individual and family therapy, crisis intervention, skill-building, and support services.

Qualification Requirements:

• A diagnosis from a licensed professional
• Under 21 years of age
• Insured through Medicaid

Services Included:

• Counseling/therapy from licensed practitioners
• Crisis intervention
• Community psychiatric support and treatment
• Psychosocial rehabilitation
• Family peer support services
• Youth peer support

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)  are for the benefit of children with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or functional limitations. The primary goal is to empower children with these challenges to lead full lives and get a sense of normalcy through support from their families and communities.

Qualification Requirements:

• Under 21 years of age
• A diagnosis from a licensed professional
• The child has or has applied for an out-of-home placement (e.g. mental institution or juvenile facility) or is multi-system involved (systems such as foster care, CPS, juvenile facility, probation, CFTSS, and 1st-tier intervention)

Services Included:

• Community habilitation
• Day habilitation
• Caregiver/family advocacy and support services (CFASS)
• Respite
• Prevocational services
• Supported employment
• Palliative care (massage, expressive, counseling and support, pain and symptom management)
• Adaptive and assistive technology
• Vehicle modifications
• Enviromental modifications
• Non-medical transportation

Children and Youth Evaluation Services Program (C-YES Program)

The Children and Youth Evaluation Services Program (C-YES Program) is an initiative designed to assess the needs, identify any problems, and find and connect families to the best resources to manage those problems and meet those needs. C-YES is essential for early intervention and getting the best referrals to empower and support children.

Qualification Requirements:

• Under 21 years of age

Services Included:

• Once assessed, children and families will be referred to the appropriate HCBS providers relevant to their needs.

Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD)

Office of People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is a New York State government agency that provides support and services to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. It works closely with local service providers, advocacy organizations, and community partners to ensure that they have access to appropriate support and opportunities.

Qualification Requirements:

• Insured through Medicaid
• A developmental disability that is described by certain qualifying diagnoses or conditions.
• The disability must have occurred before the person reached the age of 22.
• The disability can be expected to continue indefinitely or permanently.
• The disability causes a substantial handicap to a person’s ability to function normally in society.

Services Included:

• Respite
• Self-direction
• Environmental modifications
• Crisis services
• Assistive technology
• Care coordination
• Residential care
• Additional health-related items and services

Applied Behavioral Analysis Therapy (ABA Therapy)

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy is a systematic and evidence-based approach used to analyze and modify behavior in individuals, particularly children, under the age of 21. It is commonly employed to address behavioral challenges and improve social, communication, and adaptive skills. Those who qualify can possibly get up to 25 hours per week of this service, which can be done at home, at the school, or in our health service provider’s main facility.

Qualification Requirements:

• A diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) from a licensed professional.
• Any age
• Any Insurance

Services Included:

The services you get with ABA therapy are tailored to each child’s needs. A board-certified behavioral analyst (BCBA) does an assessment, after which a plan is developed that can include anything from discrete trial training (DTT), verbal behavior (VB) therapy, and natural environment training (NET) to name a few.

Do you think your child, ward, or student could qualify for any of the free NYS services? Contact Progen Care and we’ll ensure that you get the assessments, diagnoses, and referral recommendations you need to give your child the best chance at a fulfilling life.

The post Free NYS Services For Children Under 21 appeared first on Progen Care.

Adolescence is a time full of experimentation, usually away from adult supervision, and this can provide the perfect opportunity for children to be exposed to harmful substances. Let’s explore why this dangerous phenomenon occurs and how to spot the signs and intervene as early as possible.

What is substance abuse?

Substance abuse is the ongoing, habitual and excessive use of substances in unhealthy ways with negative consequences. It involves the misuse of alcohol, prescription drugs, and illegal drugs such as stimulants, psychoactive substances and hallucinogenics, among many others.

Substance abuse can have harmful effects on the individual and those around them, including riskier behavior, strained interpersonal relationships, deteriorating mental health, and declining academic performance.

Why do children start abusing substances?

The cause of substance abuse among children cannot be boiled down to one conclusive factor for every case. There are several reasons why children might abuse substances and, in some cases, more than one reason can exist. Here’s a non-exhaustive list:

• A history of substance abuse in the family.
• Experimenting at an early age.
• Coping with stress and trauma.
• Needing to escape reality.
• Pre-existing mental health conditions.
• Peer pressure.
• Uncontrolled access to substances.
• A lack of positive extracurricular and social activities.

Determining the underlying contributor to a child’s pattern of substance abuse is a crucial step in stopping the behavior from continuing.

Warning signs of substance abuse in children

The first line of intervention for substance abuse among children is identifying it early. The longer substance abuse continues, the greater the chance of developing long-term physical and mental health problems. These are some of the signs to look out for:

Declining academic performance

Substance abuse can affect a child’s ability to concentrate, which can hurt academic performance. Children who abuse substances are also prone to frequently being absent from school without reasonable cause.

Dilated or constricted pupils and red eyes

Different drugs can have an immediate effect on the eyes, causing the pupils to seem abnormally large or small and turning the whites red.

Extreme shifts in mood

Substance abuse can cause mood swings, ranging from extreme euphoria to deep depression and irritability.

A pattern of dangerous behavior

Children are more likely to engage in dangerous behavior such as stealing, fighting, self-harm and drunk driving while under the influence.

Loss of interest in hobbies

If a child suddenly loses interest in an activity or hobby they used to enjoy, it’s possible that they might have developed an interest in drugs.

Suspicious new friends

A change in social circles on its own isn’t a concern, but if your child’s new group of friends is associated with drugs and alcohol, your child could be at risk too.

Changes in sleeping and eating habits

Substance abuse can disrupt a child’s sleeping and eating habits, leading to changes in appetite, weight, and sleeping patterns.

How teachers can help 

Teachers spend a significant amount of time with children and are well-positioned to intervene and help children struggling with substance abuse. Here are some ideas that have been proven to be effective:

• Discussing the personal and social consequences of substance abuse openly and without judgment.
• Being a good listener and allowing students to confide in you even if their problems seem non-academic.
• Starting an afterschool program where students are welcome to get a head-start on their homework and discover hobbies.
• Speaking candidly to parents about home life and any familial issues the student could be going through.
• Role-playing exercises and skits that illustrate the short- and long-term effects of substance abuse.
• Introducing a wellness program that emphasizes exercise and mindfulness as coping strategies for stress.
• Promote peer accountability so that students can monitor each other’s behavior in the absence of a teacher or other adults.

How parents can help

Parents have a lot of power when it comes to preventing, identifying and curtailing substance abuse in children. Try some of these strategies:

• Modeling responsible behavior by not glamorizing or trivializing substance abuse.
• Setting firm rules about curfews, afterschool activities, socializing and academic expectations.
• Monitoring the time of media they consume.
• Engaging them daily about their lives and what worries them, and empowering them with positive solutions.
• Teach them assertiveness and build up their self-esteem so they’re less likely to seek validation from peers at any cost.
• Don’t drive drunk whether you’re around your child or not.
• Immediately seek the help of professional services if you suspect your child is already abusing any substances.

If you are concerned that your child or student might have an issue with substance abuse, help is available. Progen Care can connect you to local accredited professional resources to help you intervene in the most effective and supportive way for your child.

Schedule your first consultation to get started.

The post Kids and substance abuse: Common Causes and Warning Signs appeared first on Progen Care.

What is therapy?

There’s a variety of therapy types and certified therapists who work with children. As experts in their specific field, they will be able to help your child with things like speech therapy, occupational therapy, or play therapy. This comes at a cost of around $ 200 per session of 45 minutes, and treatment could be anything from 5 sessions up to 16 sessions. Medicaid pays a portion of a session, but parents have to do a co-payment upfront as well. The amount that Medicaid pays varies from state to state.

During and after therapy, your child may show improvement in one area. But as a developing child, there might be other areas where more support is needed. This may involve additional therapy.

Developmental disorders are complex and may affect different areas of behavior, mental processes, motor skills, and the overall development of your child. For example, if your child has behavioral problems because of ADHD but also struggles to express their ideas verbally, they might need a therapist for the speech disorder as well as a therapist for the behavioral problems. You will have to make an appointment to take your child to the therapist for therapy once, or even twice, a week depending on what is needed. This can easily become a costly and time-consuming activity for you and your child.

What does HCBS offer?

Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) are specially designed for children and youth under the age of 21 to get appropriate services through Medicaid. If your child is a member of Medicaid, the services offered by HCBS are free and ongoing for however long a child needs them, up to the age of 21. The services are offered at home or in your local community. If a child does not receive any care or treatment, struggles with a developmental disorder, and requires services on a daily basis, HCBS offers the services the home healthcare services child needs. All children can receive the services and there are no exclusions.

The aim of HCBS is to provide necessary services and therapy to children and their families in their homes and/or the community. Multiple services are available to assist children to achieve success in their daily living at home, in an educational institution and to ultimately function as well-adjusted citizens in society. The services are to help them function effectively in their communities and at home, and avoid higher levels of care and out-of-home placements. The non-institutionalized settings provided by HCBS enable the children receiving professional home health care services, therapies, and care to remain at home and in their communities. However, HCBS is family-driven and also supports caregivers, and family members to assist the children in functioning within society.

Who provides the services to my child through HCBS?

The services meet the need of each child’s physical, developmental, and behavioral health. These are provided by a number of qualified and certified service providers, designated and authorized by HCBS to provide appropriate services. These service providers must comply with state and federal requirements to provide a specialized service. The services are provided in a flexible package that is adapted to meet your child’s changing needs. This package will include all the areas where your child might need help.

Types of HCBS Care

Care management

Care managers are assigned to each child. They assign professionals to do assessments and determine the services your child and the family might need. They stay in touch with therapists and service providers and give regular feedback to you.

Assessment and treatment

The managed care care manager helps with assigning the necessary services providers to assess your child and assign all services that might be needed. They observe your child’s progress and determine whether the initial treatment package must be adapted or changed.

Home health care

Skilled nursing care is provided for weekly checkups on your child’s physical health at home if needed. They also assist with health promotion and disease prevention by suggesting other services such as possible diet care or an exercise routine that can be provided by other professionals such as a physiotherapist or dietician.

Personal care

If the caregiver or family taking care of the child has a problem with giving the child a bath or transporting the child, HCBS provides help and managed health care.

Respite services

This service is available for the caregiver or family who is responsible for the child. It provides short-term help to relieve the primary caregiver for an hour a day or weekly or overnight. They can also provide help with the duties in the home, such as cleaning or cooking – wherever help is necessary to relieve the caregiver.

Durable medical equipment

If you need a wheelchair, a nebulizer, a portable oxygen concentrator or masks, or any other equipment, HCBS can help you get these.

What do I need to do to get HCBS services for my child?

Don’t worry, you do not have to do this process on your own to get help for your child. Progen Care is here to help you. We help you find out what free services your child qualifies for and help you access them. All you need to do is reach out – then you get a case manager who will assist you personally and guide you through the paperwork, process, and everything else. We also provide a free assessment with a licensed professional to help your child get diagnosed so that we can help them get the care they deserve. Get started with Progen Care now to help your child overcome their challenges.

The post What’s The Difference Between Therapy And HCBS? appeared first on Progen Care.