Why Join OPRA?

These are challenging times for the providers of Developmental Disabilities services. A new waiver reimbursement system is being implemented. The next generation of ICF-MR services is being developed – and OPRA is pro-actively engaged in this debate. Significant changes are being contemplated for state-operated development centers. Significant funding reductions are possible for a variety of Medicaid programs – and some could be eliminated altogether.

Many, if not all, of these changes could directly impact individuals with Developmental Disabilities, and they will certainly have important consequences for providers who serve Ohioans with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

The need for providers to have a STRONG VOICE – to be heard as these and other policy changes considered and made – has never been greater. That is why the role played by OPRA – the leading voice for choice and quality care and the premier resource for private providers of Developmental Disabilities services – has never been more critical. It also is one of the reasons why your participation as a member of OPRA is important for your organization, just as it can make a big difference in the lives of those individuals who you serve.

OPRA has consistently stood up for what we believe to be important for the care and support of those we serve. But providers and those who advocate for Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities can only be effective if their voice in strong . . . and, if they speak with a SINGLE VOICE that is heard by public officials and others who are making vital decisions that affect services to individuals with mental retardation and developmental disabilities.

There are other important reasons why you should join OPRA. Among some of the most important are found in our member services that give you access to:

• Discounted insurance broker services

• Discounted computer software packages

• Help with investment planning

• Cost-saving unemployment pools

• Workers Compensation pools

• Discounted criminal checks

• Retirement Benefits Assistance

But there's more!  As an OPRA member:

• You will receive e-mail updates highlighting upcoming events and activities of the provider community – and you will get the latest information, including "breaking news" about policy developments at both the state and federal levels.

• You will have access to all of the OPRA Web site's resources, including vital information found only in our members-only section. At www.opra.org, you will find up-to-the-minute industry news, member updates on a wide range of public policy issues, a resource finder, an online version of the OPRA members' directory and registration forms for conferences and other activities.

• You will have government, regulatory and legal representation on issues before the Ohio General Assembly, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and JCARR (Ohio's Joint Committee on Agency Rule Review), as well as state and federal courts.

• You will receive frequent government and legislative updates via the OPRA List Serve.

• You also will receive ongoing regulatory e-mail updates.

• And you will be linked directly to and be part of Partners for Choice and Quality C

Become a Member!

We welcome the opportunity to talk with you about why your participation in OPRA is important to your organization -- and how it will support your efforts to assist individuals with developmental disabilities as they strive to achieve a life of increasing independence, productivity and integration.

CLICK HERE to submit an inquiry or to learn more about the benefits of OPRA membership.