Michigan issues guidance for use of the Supports Intensity Scale

Michigan Department of Community Health Issues SIS Use Guidance
(from the ARC Michigan Friday Mail)

[The Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) is an assessment instrument from the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD).  The test measures an individual’s support needs in personal, work-related, and social activities in order to identify and describe the types and intensity of the supports an individual requires. Some families who have been made aware of the assessment do not believe it is appropriate for all levels of disability. Others have found it helpful for person-centered planning.]

The attached file (Waldrop v. New Mexico Human Services), contains the findings from a SIS lawsuit that was filed in New Mexico. It says that if the state wants to use the SIS to determine services (which is what it is not supposed to be used for in Michigan), then individuals are entitled to advanced notice and Medicaid Fair Hearings.

Earlier this week Thomas Renwick, Director of the Bureau of Community Based Services, BHDDA, issued a clarification on use of the Michigan Supports Implementation Scale (SIS). 
In his memo, Mr. Renwick indicated that “The SIS should be used to enhance and support the person-centered planning process. As with all assessments, the SIS is voluntary and should not be tied to determinations of medical necessity and the authorization of behavioral health services. Supports and services cannot be denied, reduced or discontinued if a consumer and/or guardian refuse to cooperate with the assessment process.”


Mr. Renwick also indicated that the Michigan Department of Community Health’s (MDCH) SIS workgroup was finalizing the Michigan SIS Implementation Manual, which will serve as a guide in outlining the requirements and procedures related to the implementation of the SIS in Michigan.
 

Persons with questions regarding SIS implementation should contact Belinda Hawks at hawksb@michigan.gov.