RD446 - 2009 Annual Report - Virginia Public Guardian and Conservator Program


Executive Summary:
Several significant accomplishments occurred since last year's report. In addition to expanded statewide coverage, increased capacity to serve more vulnerable adults and active involvement by the Virginia Public Guardian &Conservator Advisory Board, VDA is pleased to report that, after more than 8 years in development, Regulations have been approved by the Governor and will become effective in the Commonwealth on January 1, 2009.

Program Expansion and Increased Capacity - DMHMRSAS

Two research studies and assessments authorized by the General Assembly in 2003 and 2007 both identified a substantial need for increased statewide coverage and capacity to serve more vulnerable adults in the Commonwealth. As a result of this need and comporting with the Olmstead Initiative, additional funds were appropriated in 2005 and 2006 to expand guardianship services for adults with mental illness and/or mental retardation. Then beginning in fiscal year 2007, additional program expansion occurred through the collaborative use of Department of Mental Health Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services (DMHMRSAS) funds. These funds continue to provide guardianship services to individuals currently residing in, or at risk of placement in, a state mental retardation (MR) training center. As a direct result of these additional funding appropriations, total capacity in the public program has increased from 212 to 637 persons and the service area has been expanded to encompass previously un-served areas of the state, including Central Virginia and Northwestern parts of the state.

Virginia Public Guardian & Conservator Advisory Board (VPGCAB)

VDA commends the VPGCAB on their significant assistance and accomplishments this past year which have resulted in effective advocacy and improvement in the program. Most notable was the VPGCAB's participation in the Annual Statewide Training for Public Guardians and a presentation to the General Assembly's Joint Commission on Health Care.

Public Guardian Program Regulations

After more than 8 years in research and deliberations and with substantial assistance and input from the Virginia Public Guardian & Conservator Advisory Board, Final Regulations have been promulgated and published in the Virginia Register with an effective date of January 1, 2009.