§ 10-307. Single point of entry program

   (a) In general. --

   (1) The Interagency Committee shall establish and coordinate a program to provide single points of entry within each planning and service area.

   (2) The Department shall supervise the program for the Interagency Committee.

(b) Operation. -- Each area agency shall operate a single point of entry program to assess the needs of seniors and their caregivers and provide appropriate services.

(c) Services. -- The following services shall be provided through a single point of entry:

   (1) providing current information on available programs, services, or benefits;

   (2) determining the service needs of each senior who requests service;

   (3) processing requests for service from seniors;

   (4) through widely publicized local outreach facilities and communications systems, providing access to available public and private programs and services for seniors, including:

      (i) transportation services;

      (ii) health and nutrition services;

      (iii) financial assistance;

      (iv) social services;

      (v) educational services;

      (vi) services available through volunteer organizations or private agencies;

      (vii) appropriate housing arrangements;

      (viii) health insurance counseling;

      (ix) employment and volunteer opportunities;

      (x) respite care services; and

      (xi) other programs, information, counseling, or benefits for seniors;

   (5) monitoring the outcome of requests for service or information; and

   (6) arranging with other agencies for individual assessment to determine the service needs of a frail or health-impaired senior.

(d) Location; hours. -- To the extent possible, each single point of entry shall be:

   (1) located in a senior citizen center; and

   (2) available for access at least 5 days a week.

(e) Staff. -- Local interagency committees on services to seniors shall make agreements among themselves and with other agencies to provide staff on a regular basis at the single points of entry to:

   (1) provide information and services to seniors; and

   (2) administer agency programs.

HISTORY: An. Code 1957, art. 70B, § 4E, 4F; 2007, ch. 3, § 2.