Maine SIS

Tools and Resources

Maximus has been contracted to partner with the State of Maine Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) to administer the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults (SIS-A) Assessments. This comprehensive planning tool, developed and maintained by the Association for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD), measures exceptional medical and behavioral needs, as well as the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, and social activities.

Review Maine SIS-A – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

 

$100 Incentive Launched for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

There is a new SIS-A Member Incentive to take the SIS right now. The previous Maximus SIS-A Training assessment incentive ended on March 15, 2023. Maximus is pleased to announce a new SIS-A Member Incentive. The first 800 Section 21 or 29 or waitlist members who wish to participate will receive a one-time amount of $100. Those who already have a valid SIS-A will also receive $100.
 
Details:

  • Individual must be a Section 21 or 29 member or be on the waitlist for these waivers.
     
  • Individual must be among the first 800 members who received an assessment. Training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments.
     
  • Other attendees at an assessment do not qualify for this member-only incentive. 
     
  • The member will be compensated if they received a regular non-training assessment earlier in 2023 or fully completed a new assessment.  

Once Maximus completes 800 assessments, the incentive will end.
 
Community Case Managers will use the SIS-A to support the Person-Centered Planning process. It will also support the design of the Lifespan Waiver. This will be a new waiver that will offer new services and innovations to participants. Taking the SIS-A will not affect your current service options.
 
Your help is strongly encouraged and will also help the service system improve. 
 
Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 


Stay connected to important program updates and helpful program resources:

Reach out with general questions using the Help Desk contact email shown below. If you or members of your team would like to be added to one of the Maine SIS Updates list, please choose the link below that matches your needs – either Members and Families/Guardians or Program Support Roles, such as Community Case Managers, Waiver Provider Agencies, OADS staff or others involved in program support. Please include your name and email address, as well as your title and facility/organization name, if applicable. 

Members and Families/Guardians – I’d like to send email to sign up to receive email updates on the Maine SIS Program

Program Support Roles – I’d like to sign up to receive email updates on the Maine SIS Program
 

Watch Josh W.'s participant interview about his personal SIS-A assessment
experience. Video provided by the Maine Office of Aging and Disability Services OADS.

Contact the help desk
Phone & Email

833.771.4639 

Maine-SIS@maximus.com

Business Hours

8:00 am - 5:00 pm EST, M-F

Announcements

  • Maine SIS Program: $100 SIS-A Assessment Incentive Still Available for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members | Learn More About Mainers’ Personal Experiences with the SIS-A

    If you or a member that you support has not taken a SIS-A assessment yet, it’s not too late to receive the $100 member incentive, which is available to the first 800 persons who take the assessment. 

    What is the SIS-A?

    The SIS-A is a standardized assessment that helps inform the Person-Centered Planning process. It also provides OADS with support information for the design of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver.  

    Who is eligible for the SIS-A member incentive?

    • A Section 21 or 29 member or on the waitlist for these waivers 

      -OR- 
       
    • A youth 16 or older with an IDD/Autism diagnosis who is on or eligible for MaineCare and expected to transition to Maine adult services, Section 21, Section 29 or Lifespan.


    What does not qualify for the SIS-A member incentive?

    • Persons who have already had a valid SIS assessment and received the incentive. 
       
    • Other SIS-A assessment attendees, like family members or guardians, do not qualify for this member-only incentive.


    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment:


    A Participant and Family Member Share Their Personal SIS-A Assessment Experiences  


    SIS-A PARTICIPANT 

    OADS and the SIS-A team at Maximus recently sat down for a video chat with SIS-A participant, Josh W., to learn more about his experience with the interview process. 

    Click here to learn more.

     
    FAMILY MEMBER OF A SIS-A PARTICIPANT 

    A mom recently shared another unique perspective on the SIS-A experience. 

    “Yesterday’s assessor was a true pro: she explained her questions, listened carefully to answers, asked follow-up questions, and observed my son carefully, and adjusted her interactions with him. Most importantly, she was flexible. I asked the assessor to start with any questions she had for my son, and to wait to read her explanation of the process until he had a chance to talk with her. He left the field after 10 minutes. He just couldn’t stay there (for the entire assessment) and the assessor was quite relaxed about it.  
     
    I felt that my son - his preferences and the supports he’d need for both ADLs and to fulfill his wishes - were documented.” 


    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? 

    Click here to see frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the SIS-A assessment and the current incentive.
     
    Explore other resources including: 


    Learn more about Maximus.

    Maximus provides conflict-free administration of the SIS-A assessments across the state of Maine on behalf of the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS). The company also manages the state’s Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs. Maximus has extensive experience partnering with state, federal and local governments to administer conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions.  

    Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities.

  • Maine SIS Program – Quarterly Newsletter: $100 Assessment Incentive Still Available | Recent SIS-A Participant Shares Assessment Experience | Meet the SIS Team | Explore Support Resources

    In This Newsletter: 

    • Receive an $100 Assessment Incentive 
    • Recent SIS-A Participant Shares His Assessment Experience 
    • Meet the SIS Team: Becky Chretien  
    • Explore SIS-A Support Resources 


    REMINDER: $100 Assessment Incentive Still Available for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members
     
    If you or a member that you support has not taken the SIS-A assessment yet, there is a recent SIS-A member incentive to take the SIS-A right now. The SIS-A is high-quality data that helps inform the Person-Centered Planning process. It also provides OADS with support information for the design of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver.  

    This SIS-A member incentive is available for people who are:  

    • A Section 21 or 29 member or on the waitlist for these waivers 
    • Among the first 800 members who received an assessment 
    • A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated. 

    What does not qualify for the SIS-A member incentive include: 

    • Previously performed training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments.  
    • Other SIS-A assessment attendees, like family members or guardians, do not qualify for this member-only incentive. 

    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? Click here to see frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the SIS-A assessment and the current incentive. 

    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 

    Call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com.  


    SHARING YOUR FEEDBACK: SIS-A Participant, Josh W. Shares His Assessment Experience
     
    OADS and the SIS-A team at Maximus recently sat down for a virtual chat with SIS-A participant, Josh W. to learn more about his experience with the interview process.  

    Click here to learn more. 


    MEET THE TEAM: Becky Chretien, Coordinator I – Clinical Assessments 

    For this edition of “Meet the Team”, we introduce you to Coordinator I – Clinical Assessments, Becky Chretien. In her role as a SIS-A Assessor, she contacts the Member, Case Manager, family members, guardians, and others to schedule the assessment. Becky then meets with them for the assessment interview. Once completed, the results are sent to the Member’s Case Manager. The SIS-A results can help the Case Manager with Person-Centered Planning for the Member. 

    Please share in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role: 
    I have a B.S. in Mental Health/Human Services from the University of Maine at Augusta. I have worked for the DHHS as a Permanency Caseworker. I also have experience working as a Case Manager, Care Coordinator and for the Social Security Administration as a Claims Specialist.  

    What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?  
    My services are throughout Somerset, Kennebec, Waldo as well as Franklin, Piscataquis, and Penobscot counties. 

    What is your favorite part of the work you do?  
    I love meeting and helping people! I really enjoy doing the SIS-A Assessments, it shows the member’s supports needs in all aspects of their life. I strive to make sure all SIS-A Assessments are accurate, detailed and directly reflect each member.  

    Have you lived in other places besides Maine – other states, countries?
    I was born and have always lived in Maine; I love our state! 


    TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports 


    SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk 

    If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 

    Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location. 

    If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 

    Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more: 


    INSIGHTS: Learn more about Maximus

    Maximus provides conflict-free administration of the SIS-A assessments across the state of Maine on behalf of the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS). The company also manages the state’s Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs. Maximus has extensive experience partnering with state, federal and local governments to administer conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions. 

    Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities.

  • Maine SIS Program - Important Reminder: $100 Assessment Incentive Still Available for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

    If you or a member that you support has not taken the SIS-A assessment yet, there is still a SIS-A member incentive available to take the SIS-A right now. The SIS-A is high-quality data that helps inform the Person-Centered Planning process. It also provides OADS with support information for the design of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver. 

    Who is eligible for the SIS-A member incentive?

    • A Section 21 or 29 member or on the waitlist for these waivers
    • Among the first 800 members who received an assessment
    • A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated.

    What does not qualify for the SIS-A member incentive?

    • Previously performed training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments. 
    • Other SIS-A assessment attendees, like family members or guardians, do not qualify for this member-only incentive.  

    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? 

    Click here to see frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the SIS-A assessment and the current incentive.
     
    Explore other resources including: 


    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment:

    Learn more about Maximus.

    Maximus provides conflict-free administration of the SIS-A assessments across the state of Maine on behalf of the Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS). The company also manages the state’s Assessment Services Agency (ASA), which is an integrated service for assisting individuals across a range of support programs. Maximus has extensive experience partnering with state, federal and local governments to administer conflict-free assessment services for persons with intellectual, behavioral health, and developmental disabilities, as well as older adults and individuals with complex medical conditions. 

    Learn more about Maximus services and capabilities.

  • Maine SIS Program: Register for Upcoming SIS-A Updates and Q&A on November 16 | Learn How to Receive a $100 Assessment Incentive | Feedback on the SIS-A Experience | Review Support Resources

    Inside This Newsletter:

    • Register for Upcoming Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A – November 16, 2023
    • Receive a $100 Assessment Incentive 
    • Sharing Your Feedback: A Case Manager Discusses Her SIS-A Experience
    • Meet the SIS Team: Lisa Horan 
    • Explore SIS-A Support Resources

    The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) will host another informative Listening Session at 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET Thursday, November 16, 2023. It’s open for all Section 21 and 29 members, their families, guardians, as well as interested Waitlist members. If you were unable to attend the recent September 14 event, this session will provide another great opportunity to get updates and ask questions about the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults® (SIS-A) and current Lifespan Waiver planning. A reminder that the SIS-A is the assessment tool being used by OADS to gather data and develop the Lifespan Waiver. 
     
    Click here to register for the Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A  
     

    To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
     
    A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf


    REMINDER: $100 Assessment Incentive Still Available for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

    If you or a member that you support has not taken the SIS-A assessment yet, there is a recent SIS-A member incentive to take the SIS-A right now. The SIS-A is high-quality data that helps inform the Person-Centered Planning process. It also provides OADS with support information for the design of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver. 

    This SIS-A member incentive is available for people who are: 

    • A Section 21 or 29 member or on the waitlist for these waivers
    • Among the first 800 members who received an assessment
    • A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated.

    What does not qualify for the SIS-A member incentive include:

    • Previously performed training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments. 
    • Other SIS-A assessment attendees, like family members or guardians, do not qualify for this member-only incentive.  

    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? Click here to see frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the SIS-A assessment and the current incentive.

    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment:

    Call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 


    SHARING YOUR FEEDBACK: A Case Manager Discusses Her SIS-A Experience

    OADS and the SIS-A team at Maximus appreciate all the continued feedback received from members, families, CCMs and others involved in the assessment process. We recently heard from LEAP (Life Enrichment Advancing People) Case Manager, Kelly DeRoche. Based in Farmington, Kelly has participated in several SIS-A assessments with Assessor, Donna Umbro over the past few months. She’s kindly shared some thoughts with us about her experiences. 

    The assessment process was transparent and very easy. I have done several assessments with Donna and continue to be incredibly pleased. She is professional, thorough, and caring for the individuals that exhibit anxiety or concern with the process. The assessment continues to be a tool for me to learn new things about the individuals that I provide support for. This assessment is overall a wonderful experience. I hope it is effective in providing more person-centered support in the future. 


    MEET THE TEAM: Lisa Horan, Operations Manager 

    For this edition of “Meet the Team”, we introduce you to Operations Manager, Lisa Horan. In her role, Lisa works with all program stakeholders, and providing ongoing training for the Assessor team and providing support for Members, CCMs, family members, guardians, and others. 

    Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role:
    I have worked in the field of human services for over 30 years. I have a Master’s Degree in Special Education. I have worked for Maximus since 2015 and have worked with SIS since that time as a trainer.

    What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
    I provide support to all Maine SIS Assessors, so essentially cover the entire state in my role. 

    What is your favorite part of the work you do?
    I enjoy getting to meet so many different people. It is important to me to ensure that people have a meaningful experience during their SIS Assessments.

    Where have you lived besides Maine – other states, countries?
    Over the years, I have lived in seven states to include Maryland, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Ohio, Virginia, North Carolina, and Texas. I have actually never lived in Maine.


    TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports

     
    SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk

    If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
    Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

    If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
    Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

  • Maine SIS Program: Section 21 or 29 Members and Families Invited to Attend September 14 SIS Updates and Q&A Session | Learn About $100 Assessment Incentive | Review SIS-A Support Resources

    In This Newsletter:

    • Attend Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A – September 14, 2023
    • Learn More About the New $100 Assessment Incentive 
    • Meet the SIS Team: Siobhan Ahearn 
    • Review SIS-A Support Resources

    The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) invites Section 21 and 29 Members, their families and guardians, as well as Waitlist Members to attend the upcoming Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A. This event will take place at 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ET on Thursday, September 14, 2023. It will give Members and their support teams an opportunity to learn about important Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ® (SIS-A) updates. They can also questions about the Lifespan Waiver planning and SIS-A processes. The SIS-A is the assessment tool being used by OADS to gather data and develop innovative new participant services. 
     
    Click here to register for the Listening Session: SIS-A Updates and Q&A 
     
    To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
     
    A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf


    FAQs: Learn More About the New $100 SIS-A Incentive Launched for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members

    The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) uses the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ® (SIS-A) to support the design of an array of innovative service options through the new Lifespan Waiver. The SIS-A is high-quality data that can also informs Person-Centered Planning process. We encourage all members to take the SIS-A. 
     
    Read the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) below to learn more about this special offer.

    Q: Who is eligible for the new Member Incentive for the SIS-A assessment?
     
    A: There is a new SIS-A Member Incentive to take the SIS right now. The previous Maximus SIS-A Training assessment incentive ended on March 15, 2023. A new incentive for people interested in taking the SIS-A assessment was announced in late July 2023. It is available for those who are: 

     - A Section 21 or 29 member or be on the waitlist for these waivers. 

     - Among the first 800 members who received an assessment. 

     - A member or someone on Section 21 or 29 waitlists who have fully completed a valid, non-training assessment earlier in 2023. You will also be compensated. 
    ​​​​​​​
    The following do not qualify for the current SIS-A Member Incentive: Training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments. 

     - Other attendees at a SIS-A assessment do not qualify for this member-only incentive.  
     

    Q: Does AAIDD allow the viewing of SIS-A questions ahead of time? 
     
    A: Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment. Tell them you are also interested in the $100 Member Incentive: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 

    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A Member Incentive or assessment processes? Click the link below to see these and other frequently asked questions.

    Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated August 8, 2023 

    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com.  

    Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated August 9, 2023


    MEET THE TEAM: Siobhan Ahearn, Clinical Assessments Coordinator 

    For this edition of “Meet the Team”, we introduce you to Clinical Assessments Coordinator I, Siobhan Ahearn. In her role, Siobhan gets to interact with all the individuals involved in the SIS-A process – from Member and Assessor to Community Case Manager and other vital team members who will attend the interview.
     

    Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role:
     
    Homecare: State Home Care - Developed and enhanced programs to support and maintain an individual’s independence while living in the community. Medical Social Worker with Visiting Nurse Association and Hospice: completing evaluations for care, emotional support, counseling, and continued case management. Director of Social Services for a Skilled Nursing Home Care and Assisted Living.

    What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
    Bangor to the north.

    What is your favorite part of the work you do?
    I enjoy encouraging individuals to realize their potential, looking at the positives.
     
    Have you lived in other places besides Maine – other states, countries?
    I’ve previously lived in Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, as well as time spent in UK, Spain, Germany, Philippines.

    What are your dream vacation spots?
    Dream destinations on my wish list include the Galapagos Islands, train ride across Canada, and finish hiking all of the U.S. National Parks.



    REMINDER: The SIS-A Assessment Process Cycle      


    TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports


    SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
     
    If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
    Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

    If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
    Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:
     

  • Maine SIS Program: New $100 Incentive for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members Who Participate in a SIS-A Assessment | Learn How SIS-A Supports the Lifespan Waiver | Review Updated FAQs & Resources

    SIS-A ASSESSMENTS: $100 Incentive Launched for Section 21 or 29 or Waitlist Members
     
    The Office of Aging and Disability Services (OADS) uses the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults ® (SIS-A) to support the design of the Lifespan Waiver. It is a waiver designed to offer a more comprehensive array of innovative service options. The SIS-A is high-quality data that can also inform the Person-Centered Planning process. We are encouraging Section 21, 29 and waitlist members to take the SIS-A. 
     
    There is also a new SIS-A Member Incentive to take the SIS right now. The Maximus SIS-A Training assessment incentive ended on March 15, 2023. This is a different incentive program being offered now.
     
    Maximus is pleased to announce this new SIS-A Member Incentive. The first 800 Section 21 or 29 or waitlist members who wish to participate will receive a one-time amount of $100. Those who already have a valid SIS-A will also receive $100.
     
    Details:

    • Individual must be a Section 21 or 29 member or be on the waitlist for these waivers.
       
    • Individual must be among the first 800 members who received an assessment. Training assessments do not qualify, as there has already been reimbursement for training assessments.
       
    • Other attendees at an assessment do not qualify for this member-only incentive. 
       
    • The member will be compensated if they received a regular non-training assessment earlier in 2023 or fully completed a new assessment.  

    Once Maximus completes 800 assessments, the incentive will end.
     
    Community Case Managers will use the SIS-A to support the Person-Centered Planning process. It will also support the design of the Lifespan Waiver. This will be a new waiver that will offer new services and innovations to participants. Taking the SIS-A will not affect your current service options.
     
    Your help is strongly encouraged and will also help the service system improve. 
     
    Contact the Maximus Help Desk to schedule a SIS-A assessment: call 833.771.4639 or email Maine-SIS@maximus.com. 
     

    INSIGHTS: How the SIS-A Supports Lifespan
     
    Lifespan's goal is to better meet the needs of people across their whole lives. It would begin at age 14, and support people through end of life. Results from SIS-A assessments are important to help OADS to design future design service innovations in the Lifespan Project. They will help to help OADS better understand the unique needs of Mainers. They are a source of quality data for personal plans. 
     
    In Lifespan, there are several system improvements that stakeholders have indicated are important to them. There are reasons to be excited about the possibilities. 

    • One significant proposed service is financial support for transportation that is not medically related. In Maine, easier transportation means potential access to a wide range of activities. 
       
    • Another significant proposed change is expanded options for self-direction. We are building on what we have started in Section 29. Support for self-direction will be stronger and have more options.
       
    • Also, Lifespan proposes to add flexibility for how technology can support individuals.  

    To learn more, explore the Concept Paper Draft on the OADS’ Lifespan Project website: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-DHHS-OADS-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Final.pdf. 
     
    A plain-language version of the Executive Summary is also available: https://www.maine.gov/dhhs/sites/maine.gov.dhhs/files/inline-files/Maine-Lifespan-Waiver-Concept-Paper-Plain-Language-Final.pdf.


    The SIS-A Assessment Process Cycle 
     

     

    NEW FAQs: Prepping for a Supports Intensity Scale for Adults (SIS-A ®) Assessment     

    Q: Do people need to prepare prior to participating in the SIS-A? 

    A: No. There is no specific preparation required other than knowing the person’s needs. The assessor will guide the process. A good understanding of the person’s needs is important. The assessment process should include people who know the person being assessed very well. Ideally, someone who has been with them in recent months to ensure an accurate picture of the person now. The member should also agree that everyone planning to attend are people they want to be there.

    Q: Does AAIDD allow the viewing of SIS-A questions ahead of time? 

    A: No. However, there is a sample report available on the Maximus website for review. This sample is helpful in understanding the types of results generated from the assessment. They are examples of the kinds of questions can be reviewed in advance. They can orient you as to the nature of the questions that will be asked.
     
    Would you like to learn more about the SIS-A assessment process? Click the link below to see these and other frequently asked questions.

    Download SIS-A Assessment FAQs – Updated June 29, 2023


    MEET THE TEAM: Donna Umbro, Lead Coordinator

    In the coming months, we will introduce you to members of the Maximus SIS-A Assessments team. In this edition, we speak with Lead Coordinator, Donna Umbro. Her role is critical in managing the team that coordinates the assessment locations, and dates/times with members, assessors, and others who will attend the SIS-A interview.

    Tell us in a few sentences about your professional background/work history as related to your current role: 
    I have case management experience working with adults with disabilities, as well as children with disabilities. I also worked in a group home with adults with intellectual disabilities.
     
    What area(s) of the state do you service in your role?
    I work in Lewiston Maine and the surrounding areas.
     
    What is your favorite part of the work you do?
    I really enjoy meeting families and individuals. 
     
    Have you lived in other places besides Maine – other states, countries?
    In addition to Maine, I’ve lived in Ohio and Virginia for small periods of time.  


    TOOLKIT: Other SIS-A Guides and Supports


    SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
     
    If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
    Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

    If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
    Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

  • Maine SIS Program: Goals Behind the Lifespan Waiver and the SIS-A | Download a Sample SIS-A Report and Assessment Overview | Review Helpful Program Resources

    The implementation of the Supports Intensity Scale for Adults (SIS-A ®) assessment tool recently reached an important milestone with its official launch on March 1, 2023. Thank you to everyone who has continued to assist OADS and Maximus in helping coordinate and attend the training assessments conducted over the past several weeks. 
     
    Continue reading below to explore the new SIS-A Overview guide and additional resources. Learn more about the importance of the SIS-A process for members, as well as a tool to help OADS understand the unique needs of Mainers with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD)/Autism.
     
    The SIS-A Report also provides invaluable details to help you in developing the member’s Person-Centered Plan (PCP).
     
    Download a sample AAIDD SIS-A Report here.
     

    “A Path for ME” SIS- A Assessment and Lifespan Project Timeline
     



    Q&A: Understanding the Lifespan Waiver and the Role of SIS-A 

    Why is the Lifespan Waiver being developed?
    Lifespan is a response to many concerns the department has heard about the current service system. To provide innovative ways to meet needs, OADS must understand the needs of everyone currently served in the system.

    What is the SIS-A?
    The SIS-A is a comprehensive planning tool that measures support needs in the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, social activities, and exceptional medical and behavioral support needs. In addition to the vital role this needs data will provide for the design and support of the Lifespan waiver. 

    What are the benefits of the SIS-A?

    Members and Families
    Completing a SIS assessment provides an opportunity for current waiver members’ Circle of Support in one meeting. needs to be captured and empower them to plan and successfully meet their goals. 
     
    Community Case Managers (CCMs) 
    The SIS-A interview, coordinated by Maximus, is an opportunity to bring together the member’s Circle of Support in one meeting. This powerful discussion about needs, goals and strengths helps to directly inform the Person-Centered Plan. The SIS-A assessment provides a clear, comprehensive report covering a broad range of support needs which maps to the member’s Plan by:

    • Spotlighting the nuance between what is “Important To” and “Important For” the member
    • Gathering valuable information for the “Charting the Lifecourse” framework

    OADS
    SIS-A assessments will play a critical part in helping OADS understand the unique needs of Mainers with IDD/Autism. The high-quality needs data gathered through these assessments will ensure that system improvements through Lifespan can be made to best meet those needs.


    NEW RESOURCE: SIS-A Overview

    A helpful new reference guide has been developed to walk stakeholders through some key basics about the SIS-A Assessment process, including:

    • The purpose of the assessment
    • How it measures support needs 
    • Who should participate 
    • Detailed visual workflow

    Click here to download the SIS-A Overview


    TOOLKIT: SIS-A Guides & Supports

    SUPPORT: Contact the Maine SIS Assessments Help Desk
     
    If a member would like to schedule a SIS-A assessment: 
    Interested members should contact the Maine SIS Help Desk and ask that an assessment be scheduled: (call 833.771.4639 or email: Maine-SIS@maximus.com). Maximus will follow up to schedule an appropriate date/time and location.

    If you have other SIS assessment related questions: 
    Contact the Maximus – Maine SIS Help Desk team from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. EST, Monday – Friday to learn more:

    Sign up for the Maximus SIS-A Assessment Mailing List: 
     
    Send an email to: Maine-SIS@maximus.com. Use the subject line “Add to the Maine SIS Mailing List” and include the following information in the body of your message for all members of your team who should be added to the mailing list: full name, title, facility/organization, email address.

Resources