PHILOSOPHY OF CARE

Holy Angels matches residents according to their individual needs in order to maximize their success and quality of life.  Holy Angels provides a continuum of care so residents may move to different areas as their needs change. All residents must do their best to learn positive social skills and treat others respectfully. It is also vital for families to work with the Interdisciplinary Team in developing and implementing the individual plan to provide the best opportunity for their loved one’s success.

ID Team

The Interdisciplinary Team (ID Team) is a group of professionals with various areas of expertise (e.g., case managers, psychology, social work, medical, dietary, etc.) who work together toward their clients’ goals. The role of the QIDP (Qualified Intellectual Disabilities Professional/Case Manager): Commonly known as the “Q,” along with the Director of Habilitation, is responsible for the overall care and skill development of each person at Holy Angels. They are responsible for training, monitoring progress, and the safe and efficient operation of the residential and day program.

• They are the primary point of contact for the family (e.g., scheduling visitation and home visits, requesting specialized services, and seeking information about any aspect of care).
• Serves as an advocate to each individual to ensure their needs are being met.
• Is the liaison between families, the ID team, and other professionals as needed.
• Ensures the resident has access to and manages their personal funds.
• Provide all services required in accordance with State and Federal regulations.
• Ensures each resident’s rights are protected.
• Develops and oversees each individual plan of care by coordinating and ensuring the quality of all services delivered.
• Increase awareness, educate about, and encourage participation in programs such as scouting/venturing, Kawana’s Action Club, choir, and sports.
• Provides social skills training in individual and group formats by providing positive role models, a safe place to express feelings, education about online safety, and demonstration of appropriate interactions between themselves and others.
• Develops policies for behavioral expectations (i.e., House Rules, appropriate use of electronic devices and internet access, appropriate boundaries and relationships)

Medical Support

The medical team at Holy Angels is made up of individuals who work in sync and strive to meet the medical needs of all residents by providing full-time preventative and supportive care. Holy Angels provides additional on-campus medical clinics encompassing a wide range of specialized services.

Supported Employment

When an individual requests to obtain employment in the community, the QIDP develops goals with that person by providing trial work experiences on campus (e.g., Holy Angels and satellite Gift Shops, cafeteria help, central supply, commissary, Pack enterprise, etc.). If they are successful, they will be referred to the Job Developer, who will assist with their application to Louisiana Rehabilitation Services and assist with a job search that matches their skills and preferences to available positions. Upon hire, job coaches will assist in on-the-job training and ensure success. Transportation to and from the place of employment is funded by the individual working.

Importance of the Direct Support Professional (DSP)

The Direct Support Professional is responsible for creating a safe, positive, and encouraging atmosphere for the individuals in their care. They provide assistance with daily activities. They work with the ID team to better understand their client’s challenges and health status while providing individualized care that meets their client’s specific needs They work closely with the individual to enhance their decision-making skills and encourage them to engage in more activities that will help strengthen their physical and mental health. Direct Support Professionals teach individuals how to complete certain tasks on their own to promote a more independent and satisfying lifestyle.

• They are responsible for overseeing and assisting as needed with the day-to-day direct care of the individual (e.g., grooming, bathing, nutrition, hygiene, medication administration, household responsibilities, etc.).
• Daily documentation of services provided to each resident (e.g., objectives, medication administration, social visits, incident reports, census, etc.).
• Communicate issues/needs to the QIDP or the ID team.
• Provide assistance and training in appropriate community interactions.

Conflict Resolution

The QIDP is the point of contact to resolve issues. If necessary, the QIDP will assemble the appropriate team to address the concerns. Also, the family member/guardian will be contacted by phone or email to either participate or be notified of the ID Team decision. Holy Angels follows its Grievance Policy to resolve conflicts that are not able to be resolved informally with the QIDP.

Visits

Please contact your QIDP at least 7 days in advance to coordinate home visits. Schedule campus visits with the Q at least 2 business days in advance. Plans for Holiday home visits (e.g., Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, 4th of July, etc.) must be communicated to the Q 4 weeks in advance to allow opportunities for staff to plan time off and coordinate home closures.