Frequently Asked Residential Questions

If my son/daughter chooses to live in a group home at this time, does that mean they will live there the rest of their lives?

Many people move into their own apartments after they feel like they are ready for less restrictive environments.  The team works to make this happen for someone when they decide they would like to live on their own. 

I have heard that there are meetings each year.  What are they for and do I need to attend?

The Department of Human Services contracts with us to provide services to people with disabilities.  A part of the contract is to have an individualized plan in place that shows the goals and objectives for the year.   The planning meeting needs to happen, at a minimum, annually.  The meeting is an excellent opportunity for the person to celebrate their achievements  from the previous year and to express the goals for next year.  We encourage your attendance to show support for the accomplishments achieved.   Typically there is also some paperwork that needs to be signed after the meeting.

How do you get to know my son/daughter's goals and interests?

Staff spend a lot of time visiting and observing people to determine what things they like.  As part of CQL accreditation requirements, the agency utilizes the 21 Personal Outcome Measures which covers all health, safety and security issues for people.  The outcomes are reviewed monthly to assess whether the person is achieving the outcomes or support is needed.  As new things are learned about a person, it becomes a valuable piece of information for their self assessment. 

Will my son/daughter have a room-mate?

It is quite possible that he/she will have a room-mate.  The agency does its best to ensure that the people who share an apartment/room together are compatible.  If for some reason it does not work between two people, we try to accommodate each person affected.

My son/daughter loves to attend concerts at MSU and is currently on a bowling league. Will he/she be able to continue doing those things?

Absolutely!! We encourage people to be involved in as many activities in the community as they want. This type of involvement will promote friendships and social roles for people. The agency owns several cars, mini vans and mobility vans that are utilized to support people to these type of outings.  People are also encouraged to use the local Taxi services and the Commission on Aging bus service.  

Do I need to schedule medical appointments?

KALIX has three full-time RNs on staff to provide support in the area of medical needs for people.   The Program Directors and the RNs can assist in making appointments and ensuring that medical needs are met (including – dentist, vision, hearing, annual physical, cancer screenings, etc.).

How will my son/daughter get to medical appointments?

KALIX  can support him/her to doctor’s appointments or the family can do it, depending on individual preference.   Support can be provided to referrals to specialists within the state of North Dakota.

What assistance is provided for people that take medications?

The staff that work at KALIX are thoroughly trained in the proper procedures for medication administration.  Some staff receive additional training for insulin administration and for tube feeding.   Only staff that have been properly trained are allowed to administer the medications.   This is to ensure that the right person receives the right dose at the right time through the right route.

The opportunity for a person to administer their own medication will be assessed by the team and their primary physician.  The team puts together a training program that slowly fades away staff support in the area of medication administration.   Even when people administer their own medications, there are supports built in to ensure that the medications are being taken properly.

What type of training do Support Staff have to ensure that my son/daughter will be safe in their new home?

During new staff orientation and annually there after, each staff is trained in CPR and First Aid.  Other training includes Seizures, Fire Drills, Safe Driving, and Safe Operating Procedures.  

I get overwhelmed by the financial responsibilities of keeping up with benefits and reporting.  Is there something that your agency has to help with that?

The agency provides “Representative Payee” service at no charge to those who are supported residentially.  

Do I still have input into the financial planning if KALIX is payee?  And can I get financial information to show me how the money is being spent?

On request and with the proper documentation (current release of information or guardianship papers), the agency can provide information about the person's income and expenses.

What is Recipient Liability?

Recipient Liability is the amount that you must pay towards the cost of your medical services if you are on Medical Assistance.  If you are enrolled in a residential or vocational training program (except Vocational Rehabilitation or Mental Health), you will be required to either pay the entire cost of the program or appply for Medical Assistance.   When you recieve Medical Assistance, the county computes a dollar an amount that you must pay each month (similar to an insurance deductible) towards the cost of "medical" services, which includes training/support costs.

If you are employed, without enrolling in a program funded through the Department of Human Services Developmental Disabilities Division, you will not be charged a recipient liability by KALIX.  If your income is below minimum levels established by the county, you will not be charged a recipient liability.

The recipient liability system has been developed, implemented, and maintained through a cooperative effort between the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, a division of the US Department of Health & Human Services, the North Dakota Department of Human Services, and County Social Service offices.  KALIX is required to collect fees as directed in compliance with the law.  More information can be found at the ND Department of Human Services website or by reading the  North Dakota Administrative Code 75-02-02.1-41.1.
 

What is Workers with Disabilties Coverage (WWD)?

The Workers with Disabilities coverage allows people with disabilites who want to work or increase their earnings to do so without losing their Medicaid health care coverage. 

For more detailed information on Workers with Disabilities coverage (WWD) contact your local County Social Service Office