Case Study: Arizona Department of Economic Security

Arizona Department of Economic Security, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)

Fiscal Intermediary Services

In 2004, Arizona implemented the then-largest self-direction program in the country – targeting
approximately 3,500 consumers with developmental disabilities receiving community-based long term care services. PPL was selected to implement this unprecedented effort. The AZ Fiscal Intermediary Services program allows consumers to hire employees to provide respite care, attendant care, housekeeping, and habilitation. PPL is the State’s Fiscal Intermediary, assisting participants with budget utilization and management tasks and paying service providers and other vendors.

PPL recognized that Arizona needed its Fiscal Intermediary to be a partner in the development as well as the implementation and execution of the program. PPL:

• Worked with management teams from DDD to develop program rules and structure;
  
• Worked at the local level with district staff to conduct enrollment and training sessions for
  consumers, families, and stakeholders;
  
• Developed authorization system to support management and participant reporting requirements, utilization management, and State cost efficiency goals;
  
• Developed PPL’s information technology platforms to the state’s unique program requirements;
  
• Established a local office to provide comprehensive customer service, outreach, and training
  on all topics - including program requirements, tax requirements, and budget utilization
  information.

Program serves 4000 consumers;

• PPL pays timesheets on behalf of employees;
  
• PPL works in partnership with support coordinator staff and the State to ensure a successful
  experience for consumers;
  
• The focus on developing sound business rules has provided Arizona consumers with a degree of control they have come to cherish.
  

   “ We have found PPL to be responsive in all respects. I have been pleased with the quality
of the work performed, the responsiveness of the staff, and their ability to adapt and sup
port DDD’s evolving needs. PPL works well with each district and its customer service team
provides culturally competent service to our diverse constituency.”

Antonia Valladares
Director of Business Operations
Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities