State Announces Payment Systems Change Delay; Provider Enrollment Agreements Still Needed

Dear Providers,Yesterday, newly-appointed ODDS Interim Director Trisha Baxter announced that Oregon is putting the brakes on its move to centralize payment to providers of brokerage services.The new target date for the change is July 1st, 2014, pending agreement between the State and SEIU.For quite some time, there has been great concern amongst brokerages, providers, and customers regarding what has been a rather rocky implementation process. Payment to our essential provider base must be top priority for our community and system. We applaud ODDS’ move to delay for solid planning and pledge to work with the Department on development of a thoughtful and thorough approach to this transition.That said, all providers still need to turn in their Provider Enrollment Application and Agreement. Regardless of how long this process takes, one thing is certain: you will need a provider number to do business in Oregon. It’s in your best interest and in the best interest of your customers that you take this important step now.To recap:

• Continue to send your timesheets and invoices to the appropriate brokerage as you always have. We’ll continue payment to you until at least June of 2014.
• If you haven’t sent in your Provider Enrollment Agreement, do so now. This is an essential action on your part, regardless of changing timelines. The state should then follow up with you and provide you details on how to sign up and sign in to the eXPRS payment system.
• If you have turned in your PEAA and have received no response back from the State, contact them directly at DD-MH.OHCC@state.or.us.
• Additionally, all providers must have a criminal history check completed every two years.

Thanks for your work and support of our community. Stay warm out there!Best,- The OSSA Communications TeamLarry Deal, Katie Rose and Margaret Theisen