The crystal ball: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) look to the future

For a glimpse into the "mind" of CMS, look at the online speaker presentations from the 7th New Freedom Initiative Conference “Access to Community Living: Promoting Independence and Choice” in March.

According to the program, “Choice and Independence is a key pillar of the CMS vision for a person-centered long term services and supports system for the future. The 2007 conference focused on the policies, programs, and tools – including opportunities authorized by the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 – available to shape and carry out the vision.”

Presentations are provided in both PDF and accessible text format by the National Academy for State Health Policy, which conducts policy analysis; provides training and technical assistance to states; produces informational resources; and convenes state, regional, and national forums.

The complete list of sessions, descriptions, and speakers also is available at the site.

There's a wealth of interesting information here. Available topics include:


Creating Flexible Funding Streams: What Does It Mean?
Transparency: 20/20 Traversing of the System
Developing a Mental Health System that Maximizes Recovery
Quality Assurance in HCBS: Federal Vision, Approaches and Resource
Consumer Control and Systems Change: The Positive Impact on State and Federal Policy
Supportive Housing Strategies: HUD and State Perspectives
Application of CMS Quality Management Strategy: Self-Direction and Risk
The 36 Hour Day: The Overlooked Workforce
Coordinating Institutional Transitions and Diversions: Changing the Direction of LTC System Pathways
Driving Toward a More Balanced LTC System: The Important Role of Transportation Services
Expanding Options for Home and Community Based Services
Self-Direction: Functions in Support of Self-Direction
Benefit Flexibility through Benchmark Plans: Rightsizing It for Consumers
Benefits Counseling: A Proven Strategy for Promoting Independence and Self-Sufficiency for Individuals with Disabilities
Building Natural Supports by Connecting Individuals with Disabilities and Community Members
Promoting Choice and Independence through Employment
Rebalancing Long Term Supports: Measuring Your Progress