ORALA works hard for its member's year around. We would like to share our highlights because sometimes the hard work doesn't get communicated. Our accomplishments happened because of the diligent efforts of our membership, Board of Directors, Legislative Liaison, and Executive Director. Thank you for your contributions. If you are interested in participating in any of the mentioned activities, please contact the
ORALA Office.
STAFF
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Legislative Liaison at the Capitol working for Mental Health/Elder Issues & our industry
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Executive Director who networks, advocates, markets our homes, and fundraises.
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Board of Directors Active directors made up of Mental Health and Elder Representatives
REPRESENTATION
We are present at the following meetings to communicate
our needs, participate in the decision making process, and clarify issues.
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Oklahoma State Department of Health Board Meetings
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Oklahoma Department of Mental Health & Substance Abuse Services Board Meetings
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Mental Health Aging Coalition
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Long Term Care Meetings
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State Mental Health Planning Council
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Mental Health Housing Committee
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Rules and Regulations Sub Committee for Elder & Mental Health
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Strategic Planning Sessions throughout the State
NETWORKING
We work with these systems and have overcome stigma
associated with Residential Care. We are considered a valuable member in the continuum of care.
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Oklahoma Mental Health Consumer Council
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Oklahoma Health Care Authority
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Alzheimer's Association
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State Fire Marshal's Office
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Oklahoma State Council on Aging
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Oklahoma Alliance on Aging
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Mental Health Aging Coalition
ADVOCATING
We stay on top of industry related issues and lobby for
increased funds that will improve the quality of services we provide.
Increase in Mental Health contracts from DMHSAS
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DMHSAS asked us to participate in the decision making process for the awarding of
un-obligated contracts
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We have conducted surveys and provided data to reflect the limited numbers of contracts
awarded (5 homes are waiting for contracts and many member homes provide more services
than they are reimbursed)
Increase in Mental Health daily rates to cover actual costs
Personal Care Medicaid Program for elder & mental health clients
Consistency in the Survey Process
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We have met on many occasions with the new staff at the Health Department and reviewed
consistency and problem areas
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We were successful in our efforts to change language to allow personal heaters in
homes
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We participated in meetings with Fire Marshal which developed fire safety procedures
allowing homes to have 5 residents requiring assistance to exit a building in an
emergency
ON-GOING ACTION
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Review of legislative bills which affect our industry and communicating action needed to our membership
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Advocacy & assistance to homes experiencing difficulties with interpretation of regulations
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Networking and Educational opportunities for Administrative Certification CEU's through our Spring and Fall conference
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Networking with our Legislators and Senators through Residential Care / Assisted Living Day at the Capitol
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Networking with our Legislators and fundraising for ORALA through our Annual Pitch and Putt Golf Tournament
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Conduct surveys to provide accurate industry data for increased funding
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Provide technical assistance to homes who are required to complete cost reports
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Peer consultation and review for homes experiencing difficulties
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Development of a Web Page: www.orala.org Check It Out
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Newslink sent to all members quarterly providing industry and client information with helpful links
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Marketing and referrals for member homes
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Building a strong membership through our membership drives
COME JOIN US FOR AN EXCITING 2005!!!!!
