With the deadline for existing providers getting closer and closer (2022) it is important to consistently be working on compliance with the HCBS final settings rule. FYI... New providers must be compliant when opening. One hot topic is exceptions to the HCBS rights. Most existing providers see the right to visitors at any time, food at any time, and come and go at any time and immediately think of all the incidents. They sometimes think that a conversation with the team will suffice for limiting these rights but that is NOT the case.

If an exception needs to be made for any individual, the exception must be discussed with the team, a third party must complete an assessment and if the exception is made, it must be documented thoroughly in the Individual's ISP. Human Services Consultant

We must remember that the same energy we have when someone tries to tell us what we can and cannot have and/or do, must be exercised when the individuals we support have restrictions or exceptions to their human rights and HCBS rights.