The Expertise and Dedication Behind AdvanceCare’s Family Model Services

Our Family Model Services, a unique program for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, sets itself apart through the dedication, training, and expertise of our Program Managers (PMs) and Family Model Professionals (FMPs). This article offers an inside look at the intensive training and support our team members undergo, showcasing the heart and skill that make AdvanceCare a trusted leader in Tennessee’s family-model care services.

A Deep Dive into Our Family Model Services Training and Support

Comprehensive Onboarding and Support

When new Family Model Professionals and Program Managers join our team, they embark on a 90-day onboarding journey. This includes intensive training and hands-on experiences in our Family Model Homes, where they observe and interact directly with the individuals in our care. According to Lynda, our Assistant Waiver Director, “It’s crucial for our FMPs and PMs to understand the dynamic of each Family Model Home before stepping into their roles independently.” This period includes home visits and introductions to all individuals on their caseloads, with ongoing check-ins to ensure readiness.

Collaborative Crisis Management and Support Systems

Caring for individuals with unique needs sometimes presents unexpected challenges. To ensure that FMPs and PMs are fully equipped, AdvanceCare hosts weekly “crisis meetings.” During these sessions, team members review recent situations, share strategies, and develop in-house training tools to prepare for similar events in the future. Delores, a Program Manager, emphasized the value of collaboration, sharing that “We learn from each other’s experiences and continuously improve how we manage challenging situations.”

Training Beyond Basics: Empowering Family Model Services Care with Technology and Specialized Support

Integrating Technology for Personalized Care

Technology plays an integral role in AdvanceCare’s approach to care and training. New team members engage in a week-long, intensive training that covers systems like Talent LMS and Relias, which provide essential skills in using healthcare software, documentation, and communication tools. With this technology, our team members can effectively track appointments, medication schedules, and updates to care plans, ensuring a seamless experience for individuals and families.

Customizing Care Plans for Individual Needs

Each individual’s care plan is a collaborative effort involving input from care coordinators, independent support coordinators, and medical teams. Our Program Managers and FMPs are trained to tailor these plans, with a focus on personal development and independence. By implementing “fading plans,” which gradually reduce support as individuals grow in confidence and capability, our team works to promote life skills like personal care, social engagement, and community involvement.

Skills and Training in Behavioral and Emotional Support

A significant component of our training involves preparing FMPs to address both physical and emotional well-being. By simulating real-life scenarios, discussing crisis planning, and hosting support meetings, we ensure that FMPs understand the importance of emotional care and behavior management. We also provide specialized training in behavioral support and therapy goal-setting, equipping FMPs to handle situations with empathy and patience.

Promoting Independence, Inclusion, and Community Integration in Family Model Services

Fostering Social Connections and Independence

In line with Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) guidelines, individuals in our care participate in community activities, from church visits to local festivals and library trips. “Social integration is a vital part of what we do,” says Lynda. These experiences help individuals form friendships, practice social skills, and engage in a fulfilling life outside of their family homes. FMPs are instrumental in promoting this integration, offering guidance on making community connections.

Ongoing Support for Emotional and Physical Challenges

AdvanceCare recognizes that the challenges faced by individuals in Family Model Services go beyond physical needs, often encompassing emotional and social obstacles. FMPs are trained to listen, provide emotional support, and seek creative solutions to help individuals manage frustrations with daily tasks. This ongoing support fosters resilience and a sense of belonging in our Family Model Homes, ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued.

Ensuring Long-Term Success in Family Model Services Roles

Our commitment to professional and personal growth doesn’t stop at onboarding. FMPs and PMs receive regular training in OSHA, HIPAA, and First Aid, with monthly medical training sessions and updates on care standards. AdvanceCare’s support network extends to all team members, providing a “Circle of Support” that includes direct contact with Family Model Administrators for any immediate needs. Team members have access to an entire support system designed to guide them through challenges and foster a sense of stability and growth.

What Sets AdvanceCare’s Family Model Services Apart?

AdvanceCare’s Family Model Services is much more than traditional care. The family setting, personalized care plans, and supportive training create a home environment where relationships flourish. Our professionals aren’t merely caregivers—they’re chosen family members dedicated to creating a life of stability, independence, and belonging for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. As Delores explains, “It’s a bond, a real connection. Our individuals are not just clients; they’re family.”

To find out more about AdvanceCare’s Family Model Services, visit our Family Model Services page.

We touch lives!