Hearing. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct a public hearing to receive public comment on proposed rates under foster care redesign for Single Source Continuum Contractors (SSCCs) providing services in the 24-Hour Residential Child Care program operated by the Department of Family and Protective Services. 

The hearing will be held in compliance with Human Resources Code §32.0282 and Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC, §355.105(g), which require public notice and hearings on proposed payment rates.

Proposal.  HHSC proposes to adopt rates for foster care redesign including blended foster care rates and a rate ceiling for exceptional care.  The proposed rates will be effective June 1, 2012, with the exception of the proposed rate ceiling for exceptional care which will be effective Aug. 1, 2012.  The proposed rates were determined in accordance with the rate setting methodologies listed below under “Methodology and Justification.”

Methodology and Justification.  The proposed rates were determined in accordance with the rate setting methodology codified at Title 1 of the Texas Administrative Code (TAC) §355.7103, Rate-Setting Methodology for 24-Hour Residential Child-Care Reimbursements, which states that payment rates for SSCCs under foster care redesign are determined on a pro forma basis.  These rates are being proposed to allow for the implementation of foster care redesign in selected catchment areas.

Briefing Package.  A briefing package describing the proposed payment rates will be available at http://www.hhsc.state.tx.us/rad/rate-packets.shtml on or after June 29, 2012.  Those interested also may obtain a copy of the briefing package before the hearing by contacting Esther Brown by telephone at 512-491-1445; by fax at 512-491-1998; or by email at Esther.Brown@hhsc.state.tx.us.  The briefing package also will be available at the public hearing. 

Written Comments.  Written comments regarding the proposed payment rates may be submitted instead of, or in addition to, oral testimony until 5 p.m. the day of the hearing. Written comments may be sent by U.S. mail, overnight mail, special delivery mail, hand delivery, fax, or email:

U.S. Mail
Attention:  Esther Brown
HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400
P.O. Box 85200
Austin, Texas 78708-5200

Overnight mail, special delivery mail or hand delivery
Attention:  Esther Brown
HHSC Rate Analysis, Mail Code H-400
Braker Center, Building H
11209 Metric Blvd.
Austin, Texas 78758-4021

Phone number for package delivery:  512-491-1445

Fax
Attention:  Esther Brown at 512-491-1998

Email
Esther.Brown@hhsc.state.tx.us