Definitions

As used in 101 CMR 422.00, unless the context requires otherwise, terms have the meanings in 101 CMR 422.02. Assistive Technology Independent Living. A program that provides services to assist an individual with severe disabilities in the selection, acquisition, and/or use of an assistive device (any item that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities). Services include a functional evaluation of the individual client, guidance in the acquisition and maintenance of assistive technology devices, the coordination of therapies using assistive technology devices, and training and technical assistance for the client, their family, and the client’s employer. Brain Injury Community Center. A community center-based rehabilitation program that provides supports through a membership-based program with an emphasis on abilities rather than disabilities. All members are involved in the operation of the community center. This responsibility fosters essential skills and self-esteem development, which are supported by social relationships and training. Brain Injury Site-based and Community Outreach. Site- and community-based services that provide support and opportunities for people with brain injury to enrich their lives, develop personal skills and competencies, and participate in their communities. These services have an array of day supports promoting opportunities to acquire, improve, and maintain skills and abilities needed for community participation, meaningful socialization, and quality of life. Client. A person receiving disability programs and services purchased by a governmental unit. Cost Report. The document used to report costs and other financial and statistical data. The Uniform Financial Statements and Independent Auditor's Report (UFR) is used when required. Deaf/Blind Community Access Network. A program that serves individuals who are deaf and/or blind and have complex needs requiring a continuum of supports to live and work in the community. This program empowers deaf/blind consumers to increase and sustain their independence by offering highly specialized personal assistance services that enhance community integration, such as shopping, tending to personal business matters, attending community educational events, and accessing medical care. Disability Programs and Services. Programs and services purchased by the Department of Developmental Services (DDS), the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind (MCB), and MassAbility (formerly the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission) that provide various types of assistance to disabled individuals to aid them in achieving personal independence. These programs and services include the following: (a) orientation and mobility; (b) mobile eye clinic; (c) deaf/blind community access network; (d) assistive technology independent living; (e) home care assistance; and (f) vocational rehabilitation assistant. EOHHS. The Executive Office of Health and Human Services established under M.G.L. c. 6A. Governmental Unit. The Commonwealth, any board, commission, department, division, or agency of the Commonwealth, and any political subdivision of the Commonwealth. Home Care Assistance. A program that provides homemaking services to eligible disabled adults 18 through 59 years old who have medically documented physical or mental disabilities that prevent them from performing essential homemaking activities and who need assistance with homemaking and coordination of services in order to live independently and avoid hospitalization or institutionalization. Homemaking Services. Direct assistance with meal preparation, grocery, shopping, medication pick- up, laundry, and light housekeeping. Orientation and Mobility. A service that provides individualized travel training programs to consumers in their homes, workplaces, and communities in addressing the many new challenges encountered by individuals experiencing vision loss. Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists assess the individual’s travel needs, motivation, and visual and physical abilities. Training is developed with the goal of maximizing independence or providing orientation to a new environment, such as a college campus, work location, or new residence, based upon the assessment. Provider. Any individual, group, partnership, trust, corporation, or other legal entity that offers services for purchase by a governmental unit and that meets the conditions of purchase or licensure that have been adopted by a purchasing governmental unit. State Funding. The aggregate state fiscal year amount of payments to a provider by a governmental unit for services purchased at rates established in 101 CMR 422.00. State funding does not include any amounts attributable to federal funding or grant funds. Vocational Rehabilitation Assistant (VRA). A program that provides orientation and mobility services for individuals with legal blindness and intellectual disabilities who reside in the community and may also provide trainings for individuals and families and staff. Vocational rehabilitation assistants work under the clinical supervision of certified staff. Workforce Initiatives. Funds directed to a provider for workforce development.