[Federal Register: January 8, 2008 (Volume 73, Number 5)]
[Notices]
[Page 1347-1354]
From the Federal Register Online via GPO Access [wais.access.gpo.gov]
[DOCID:fr08ja08-69]
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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Administration on Aging
Statement of Organization, Functions, and Delegations of
Authority
This notice amends Part B of the Statement of Organization,
Functions, and Delegations of Authority of the Department of Health and
Human Services (HHS), Administration on Aging (AoA), as follows: Part
B, Administration on Aging (67 FR 36883-36890), as last amended, May
28, 2002. This reorganization of AoA will achieve several important
objectives: It will streamline the organization; consolidate and
elevate AoA's disaster preparedness and responses activities; improve
the integration of AoA's budget development and policy analysis
functions; and enhance the organization's capacity to implement the
provisions of the Older Americans Act Amendments of 2006 which seek to
assist older Americans to conserve and extend their personal resources
by bringing transparency to long-term care, divert seniors away from
nursing home care, and empower older adults to take more control of
their own health through lifestyle and behavioral changes. The changes
are as follows:
I. Delete Part B, ``The Administration on Aging'' in its entirety
and replace with the following:
B.00 Mission.
B.10 Organization.
B.20 Functions.
B.00 Mission. The Administration on Aging (AoA) is the principal
agency designated to carry out the provisions of the Older Americans
Act (``OAA'' or ``The Act'') of 1965, as amended, 42 U.S.C. 3001 et
seq., and the Alzheimer's Disease Demonstration Grants to States
Program, established under section 398 of the Public Health Service Act
(PHSA) as amended by Public Law 101-157, and by Public Law 105-379, the
Health Professions Education Partnerships Act of 1998. AoA serves as
the effective and visible advocate for older persons within the
Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and other Federal
agencies. AoA assists the Secretary in all matters pertaining to
opportunities and challenges of the elderly. It advocates for the needs
of older persons in program planning and policy development within the
Department and in other Federal agencies.
B.10 Organization. The Administration on Aging is an Operating
Division (OPDIV) of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS),
which is headed by the Assistant Secretary for Aging who reports
directly to the Secretary. In addition to the Assistant Secretary, the
AoA consists of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs
and Staff and Program Offices. AoA is organized as follows:
Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA).
Center for Policy and Management (BE).
Center for Program Operations (BF).
B.20 Functions.
A. Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA):
BA.00 Mission.
BA.10 Organization.
BA.20 Functions.
BA.00 Mission. The Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary
provides executive direction, leadership, and guidance for OAA programs
and the PHSA Alzheimer's Program, and serves as the focal point for the
development, coordination and administration of those programs
nationwide. The Office advises the Secretary on issues affecting
America's elderly population.
BA.10 Organization. The Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary
is headed by an Assistant Secretary, who reports to the Secretary. The
Immediate Office includes the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and
Programs and consists of the following components, which report to the
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs:
Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA).
Executive Secretariat (BAA).
Office of Communications (BA1).
Office of Preparedness and Response (BA2).
BA.20 Functions.
1. Immediate Office of the Assistant Secretary (BA). The Immediate
Office of the Assistant Secretary (IOAS) is responsible to the
Secretary for carrying out AoA's mission and provides executive
supervision to the major components of AoA. The Office serves as the
effective and visible advocate within the Federal government to ensure
the rights and entitlements of the elderly.
Sets national policies, establishes national priorities, ensures
policy consistency, and directs plans and programs conducted by AoA.
Advises the Secretary, HHS agencies, and other Federal agencies on the
characteristics, circumstances, and needs of older people, and on
policies, plans and programs designed to promote their welfare.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs serves as
the Assistant Secretary's primary associate in carrying out the mission
of the agency. The Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Programs
serves as the AoA's Reports Clearance Officer and is the AoA liaison
with the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs, the Assistant
Secretary for Legislation, the Office of the General Counsel, the
Office of the Inspector General, and the Government Accountability
Office for areas under the Office's purview.
In collaboration with other Federal agencies, it develops and
implements interagency agreements to assist older persons. Provides
liaison with other Federal advisory committees focused on the aging.
Works with national aging organizations, professional societies, and
academic organizations to identify mutual interests and plan voluntary
and funded approaches to meet the needs of older persons. Ensures
affirmative action throughout the Aging Network in employment and
service delivery.
2. Executive Secretariat (BAA). The Executive Secretariat (ES)
coordinates essential policy and program concerns and ensures that
issues requiring the attention of the Assistant Secretary, Deputy
Assistant Secretary, and/or executive staff are addressed on a timely
and coordinated basis. It serves as the AoA liaison with the HHS
Executive Secretariat. Receives, assesses, and controls incoming
correspondence and assignments to the appropriate AoA component(s) for
response and action; provides assistance and advice to AoA staff on the
development of responses to correspondence and on the controlled
correspondence system; and tracks development of periodic reports and
facilitates departmental clearance. Maintains official copies of all
policy and information issuances and data collection instruments,
ensuring proper clearance before issuance and annually reviews for
accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations; reviews all
materials for Federal Register publication, ensuring compliance with
guidelines; serves as records manager providing assistance to both
Headquarters and Regional staff regarding filing practices, retention
and disposition of records. Serves as liaison with the Office of the
Federal Register on regulatory actions and the Office of Inspector
General and the Government Accountability Office on all program
[[Page 1348]]
matters other than those related to financial management, grants, or
procurement management; and serves as the Freedom of Information Act
(FOIA) Officer for AoA, reviews FOIA requests, and arranges for
appropriate responses in coordination with the HHS FOIA Officer.
Coordinates mandated OMB approvals required under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1980, as amended.
3. Office of Communications (BA1). The Office of Communications
(OC) is responsible for developing information dissemination and
outreach strategies for AoA and the National Aging Network and for
coordinating the development of information materials, both printed and
electronic. In coordination with the Department, manages AoA's media
relations and legislative liaison activities.
Coordinates the development of legislative proposals, testimony,
background statements, and other policy documents for use by the
Assistant Secretary in activities related to legislation. In
coordination with the HHS Office of the Assistant Secretary for
Legislation, analyzes proposed and enacted legislation related directly
or indirectly to older people, including legislation directly affecting
OAA programs. Through automated legislative information systems tracks
bills related to the aging. Develops and issues status reports
regarding key legislative developments to Headquarters and Regional
Support Centers staff, the network of State and Area Agencies on Aging,
and Indian Tribal Organizations.
Coordinates with the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Public
Affairs, including planning and implementing strategy for relations
with the news and other information media; and initiates media outreach
activities and responds to all media inquiries concerning AoA programs
and related issues.
Oversees the international liaison functions of AoA, coordinating
AoA international activities with Departmental as well as other Federal
agencies, States and national organizations concerned with
international aging matters. At all levels, from national to the local
service delivery level, develops methods and collaborations to
articulate the problems and concerns of the elderly to organizations
beyond the traditional network of agencies and works with these
organizations to be more sensitive and responsive to age-related needs
and issues.
Compiles, publishes, and disseminates information on programs
funded under the Act, as well as demographic data on the elderly
population and data from other Federal agencies on the health, social
and economic status of older persons. Promotes information
dissemination in professional fields. Ensures dissemination of
information such as best practice models to exchange program experience
with the network of State and Area Agencies on Aging; and works with
organizations in the field of aging and with other organizations in
fields that impact older persons to enhance the dissemination of
consumer and technical information. Works with the Office of Evaluation
to ensure the successful collection of data and its analysis to
demonstrate the effectiveness of AoA dissemination activities. Ensures
that program and service information and trends are disseminated to
advocates for older persons.
Responds to written, phone and personal inquiries from all sources
dealing with services and needs of the aging.
3. Office of Preparedness and Response (BA2). The Office of
Preparedness and Response (OPR) provides executive and administrative
advice, expertise, and direction related to emergencies, disasters,
preparedness and response. The OPR serves as the principal advisory
staff to the Assistant Secretary on matters relating to emergencies,
whether resulting from acts of nature, accidents, or terrorism. The OPR
coordinates interagency activities between AoA, HHS, other Federal
agencies, and other national, State, local and Tribal organizations and
entities and officials responsible for emergency preparedness and
response.
OPR coordinates with AoA's Regional Support Centers and aging
network organizations in response to the needs of older individuals
following a Presidentially-declared disaster to assess needs and
provide disaster assistance, relief and reimbursement pursuant to
section 310 of the Older Americans Act. OPR serves as the primary
liaison with the Secretary's Operations Center and the Office of the
Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response and serves on
interagency working groups to represent AoA and the unique interests of
older individuals and other special needs populations. OPR is
responsible for developing operational plans and training to ensure the
preparedness of AoA, the Aging Network and the public to respond to
threats, disasters and emergencies; for policy formulation and
coordination for preparedness and response strategic planning; and for
the development and implementation of plans to ensure the continuity of
operations.
B. Center for Policy and Management (BE):
BE.00 Mission.
BE.10 Organization.
BE.20 Functions.
BE.00 Mission. The Center for Policy and Management (CPM) advises
and supports the Assistant Secretary for Aging in developing effective
Federal policies, programs, and budgets to address the aging of the
population, as mandated under Title II and Title IV of the Older
Americans Act; and provides leadership related to the financial,
grants, information resources, procurement, administrative, human
resources, and strategic planning activities of AoA.
BE.10 Organization. The Center for Policy and Management is headed
by a Deputy Assistant Secretary who reports directly to the Assistant
Secretary for Aging. The Center is organized as follows:
Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and Management
(BE).
Office of Management Analysis and Resources (BEA).
Office of Budget and Finance (BE1).
Office of Administrative and Technology Services (BE2).
Office of Grants Management (BE3).
Office of Planning and Policy Development (BE4).
BE.20 Functions.
1. Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and
Management (BE). The Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Policy and Management (ODASPM) directs and coordinates all activities
of the Center for Policy and Management (CPM). The Deputy Assistant
Secretary advises and supports the Assistant Secretary for Aging in
serving as the visible and effective advocate for older people within
the Federal Government. Serves as the focal point within AoA for
identifying and analyzing emerging policy and program issues and trends
related to the aging population, identifying appropriate Federal
responses, and formulating an agency-wide policy and program
development strategy consistent with the priorities established by the
Assistant Secretary for Aging. Is responsible for leading the agency's
strategic planning, policy development and program development
functions, including the formulation of short- and long-term strategies
for advancing the Assistant Secretary's policy and program priorities.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary also serves as the AoA's Chief
Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Information Officer (CIO) and is the
principal advisor and counsel to the Assistant
[[Page 1349]]
Secretary for Aging on all aspects of internal administration and
management of AoA. Serves as the AoA liaison with the Assistant
Secretary for Planning and Evaluation, the Assistant Secretary for
Administration and Management, the Assistant Secretary for Resources
and Technology, the Office of the General Counsel, and the Office of
Management and Budget for areas under CPM's purview. Advises the
Assistant Secretary for Aging on budget, financial, grants, information
resources, procurement, administrative, and human resources activities.
Develops, administers, and coordinates financial, operational, and
budgetary policies, processes, and controls necessary to administer AoA
programs and financial resources; directs discretionary and mandatory
grants activities; oversees the utilization of information resources,
information systems and telecommunications management in AoA; and
coordinates AoA's internal control activities.
2. Office of Management Analysis and Resources (BEA). The Office of
Management Analysis and Resources (OMAR) oversees and coordinates
cross-cutting management activities and advises the Deputy Assistant
Secretary on all aspects of administrative operations. The OMAR
Director serves as the Management Control Officer and ensures that AoA
has internal controls in place for its administrative and programmatic
activities that provide reasonable assurance of the effectiveness and
efficiency of operations and compliance with applicable laws and
regulations. OMAR provides leadership for the strategic planning and
operational management of the AoA's human capital resources and serves
as the primary liaison with the Rockville Human Resources Center, which
provides personnel support services to AoA.
Conducts annual reviews and assessments of internal controls
required under the Federal Managers Financial Integrity Act and ensures
compliance with the Government Accountability Office and Office of
Management and Budget standards. Oversees the implementation of cross-
cutting management initiatives including the President's Management
Agenda and strategic plan management goals and objectives; advises on
actions needed to support various initiatives; and prepares reports on
the status of implementation activities. Monitors legislation related
to administrative management and provides analysis of the impact on AoA
programs and resources. Coordinates with other components to carry out
reviews of administrative activities and management practices required
under the Chief Financial Officers Act, the Improper Payments
Information Act, the Federal Information Security Management Act, and
other legislation.
Plans, organizes and conducts management studies of organizational
structures, functional statements, job structures, staffing patterns,
and management and administrative information systems; identifies and
resolves problems of organization and administrative management; and
develops administrative management policies, strategies, procedures and
techniques. Prepares and maintains organizational functional statements
and delegations and designations of authority for AoA.
Develops and implements human capital strategies and strategic
workforce plans; directs the development and creation of strategies to
attract diverse talent and develop a highly skilled workforce; and
provides leadership in the development of plans for achieving short-
and long-range human capital goals. Provides leadership and guidance to
meet the human resource management needs and coordinates internal and
external resources to provide staff with personnel services including
position management, performance management, employee recognition,
staffing, recruitment, employee and labor relations, employee
assistance, payroll liaison, staff development and training, and
special hiring and placement programs.
3. Office of Budget and Finance (BE1). The Office of Budget and
Finance (OBF) supports the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Policy and
Management in fulfilling AoA's Chief Financial Officer
responsibilities. The OBF Director serves as the Deputy Chief Financial
Officer and oversees and coordinates AoA's budget formulation, budget
execution, and financial management activities. OBF serves as the
primary liaison with the Program Support Center's Division of Financial
Operations, which provides accounting, audit, and financial management
services to AoA.
In coordination with AoA program offices, formulates and presents
budget estimates; executes apportionment documents; and plans, directs,
and coordinates financial and budgetary programs of AoA. Provides
guidance to AoA program offices in preparing budgets, justifications,
and other supporting budgetary materials. Solicits, obtains and
consolidates information and data from other AoA offices, and prepares
budget documents on behalf of the Assistant Secretary for presentation
to the Department, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the
Congress.
Analyzes the budget as approved by the Congress and apportioned by
OMB, obtains input from program offices and recommends for the
Assistant Secretary's approval a financial plan for its execution.
Makes allowances to AoA offices within the guidelines of the approved
financial plan. Develops and maintains an overall system of budgetary
controls to ensure observance of established ceilings on both program--
including all mandatory and discretionary grant accounts--and Salaries
and Expense funds; maintains administrative control of funds against
allotments and allowances; certifies funds availability for all AoA
accounts; and coordinates the management of AoA's interagency agreement
activities. Prepares requests for apportionment of appropriated funds;
and prepares spending plans and status-of-funds reports for the
Assistant Secretary.
Develops financial operating procedures and manuals; coordinates
the preparation of AoA's financial audits; and provides analysis on
financial issues. Serves as the AoA liaison with the Office of the
Secretary and OMB on all budgetary and financial matters. Acts as AoA's
coordination point for all travel management activities; provides
technical assistance and oversight on the use of the GovTrip system;
manages employee participation in the Travel Charge Card program, and
coordinates Travel Management Center services for AoA.
4. Office of Administrative and Technology Services (BE2). The
Office of Administrative and Technology Services (OATS) provides
support to AoA in the areas of facilities, acquisitions, information
technology, and other administrative services. The OATS Director serves
as the Deputy Chief Information Officer and prepares, coordinates and
disseminates information, policies, standards, guidelines, and
procedures on information technology and administrative management
issues. OATS serves as the primary liaison to, and provides oversight
for the Program Support Center's Division of Acquisition Management,
which provides procurement services; and the Information Technology
Service Center, which provides for the management, maintenance and
operation of AoA's information technology systems infrastructure,
including the LAN, personal computers, software, and support services.
Provides oversight and direction to meet the administrative needs
of AoA
[[Page 1350]]
components. Serves as liaison with the Office of the Secretary, the
General Services Administration (GSA), and outside vendors to plan,
develop and coordinate guidelines and activities for space, facilities
and telecommunications services. Serves as the lead for AoA in
coordination and liaison with Departmental, GSA, Federal Protective
Service, and other Federal agencies for planning and executing the
Agency's environmental health, safety and physical security programs.
Provides telecommunications planning and management, including
procurement, installation, and maintenance of telecommunications
equipment and services such as telephones, cellular phone service,
cable TV service, and audio conferencing equipment and services.
Assists other AoA components in securing contractor assistance by
advising on appropriate acquisition vehicles, developing statements of
work, and managing the technical aspects of contracts. Develops and
implements procurement strategies for information technology support
services; reviews all information technology acquisition documentation
for compliance with applicable laws and regulations; defines the
specifications for procurement of all hardware and software; and
identifies opportunities to share information technology services
through inter-governmental, inter-departmental and inter-agency
agreements. Monitors the use of credit cards for small purchases and
establishes and manages contracts and/or blanket purchase agreements
for administrative support and facilities management services.
Manages the development of AoA custom applications, systems, and
Web sites; oversees training and technical assistance for all AoA
systems, hardware and software; and coordinates the preparation of
manuals and policy issuances required to meet the instructional and
informational needs of users of the systems. Directs and coordinates
AoA's systems security and privacy responsibilities, including
protection, security and integrity of AoA data; and is responsible for
establishing and maintaining a secure Inter- and intranet presence.
Represents AoA on the Department's Chief Information Officer's council
and other Departmental information technology policy and planning
boards, teams, and workgroups.
5. Office of Grants Management (BE3). The Office of Grants
Management (OGM) serves as AoA's focal point for management, leadership
and administration of discretionary and mandatory grants, and
cooperative agreements. The OGM Director serves as the Chief Grants
Management Officer and provides national policy oversight and
development for grants management and administration matters. The
Office ensures that all grant awards conform to applicable statutory,
regulatory, and administrative policy requirements, both before and
following award. Maintains liaison and coordination with appropriate
AoA and HHS organizations to ensure consistency between AoA
discretionary and mandatory grant award activities, including the
Program Support Center's Division of Payment Management, which provides
payment system services for grants.
Ensures that the administrative business and financial management
aspects of discretionary grants administration are carried out and
grantee performance is monitored. Performs cost analysis/budget
analysis for all discretionary grant award documents and negotiates
grant budgets, executing all awards for AoA. Advises and assists
management and program officials in developing, implementing and
evaluating program plans, strategies, regulations, announcements,
guidelines and procedures. Recommends approval or disapproval of any
grant applications based on programmatic considerations. Only the
Office of Grants Management has the authority to obligate the
Government to the expenditure of funds for grants and cooperative
agreements. Serves as liaison with other offices in the Department.
Issues and maintains control over mandatory grant awards under the
OAA, and makes adjustments to previously issued mandatory grant awards.
In coordination with all AoA Headquarters and Regional Support Centers
having grant administrative responsibilities: Reviews and assesses AoA
mandatory grant award procedures; directs and/or coordinates management
initiatives to improve mandatory grant programs in financial areas;
develops proposals for improving the efficiency in awarding grants and
coordinating financial operations among AoA programs; establishes
priorities and develops procedures for grantee financial monitoring;
and reviews activities at the field level for all AoA discretionary and
mandatory grant programs. For mandatory grant activities, develops
financial management standards for State and Area Agencies and provides
guidance on and interpretation of applicable Federal regulations to AoA
staff. Based on mandatory grants management policies and procedures
approved by the Department, reprograms mandatory grant funds as
required under the OAA. Following consultation with all Headquarters
and Regional Support Centers having grant administrative
responsibilities, and with the approval of the Assistant Secretary:
Develops AoA instructions and procedures for the administration of the
business aspects of all mandatory and formula grants, including those
approved in AoA Regional Support Centers.
Provides training, technical assistance, overall guidance,
monitoring and assistance to AoA staff in all areas of administrative
and financial management of grants. Has primary responsibility for
developing grants management policy issuances, and ensuring consistent
policy interpretation within AoA concerning grants management. Serves
as AoA liaison with the Government Accountability Office (GAO), the HHS
Office of Inspector General and the Department's Office of Grants on
grant matters. Assists at discretionary and mandatory grant hearings,
before the Departmental Appeals Board, in response to disallowances and
other financial claims by AoA, State Agencies on Aging, and other
grantees. Responds to Departmental and Office of Inspector General
audit reviews, ensuring proper analysis and resolution of audit
findings by Regional Support Centers for final action by the Assistant
Secretary. Coordinates receipt and processing of all grants and related
materials.
6. Office of Planning and Policy Development (BE4). The Office of
Planning and Policy Development (OPPD) is responsible for analyzing
trends in demographics, service needs, public policy and program
development, and translating those trends into new policies and
programs to assist the elderly. OPPD develops and maintains effective
relationships with government and private sector entities and their
representatives at the Federal, State and local levels to develop a
unified policy toward, and promote the aims of the Older Americans Act;
oversees development of more responsive service systems through
intergovernmental and private sector initiatives and partnerships to
address age-related issues and concerns.
Coordinates the development and implementation of the agency's
strategic plan that establishes long and short-range goals; objectives,
strategies and action plan for advancing the agency's policy and
program agenda. Reviews and coordinates all policy and program
development documents and activities to ensure consistency with AoA's
[[Page 1351]]
strategic plan; and adjusts goals and strategies as appropriate.
Directs intergovernmental affairs activities as it relates to the
agency's policy and program development agenda, and develops and
maintains effective relationships with other governmental departments
and agencies. Plans, negotiates, facilitates and updates, as
appropriate, memoranda of understanding with other departments and
agencies to promote agreements and cooperative relationships and
ventures that address policies and services affecting the aging
population.
Maintains information on, and pursues collaborative opportunities
with, other Federal agencies, non-profit organizations and private
corporations that have the potential to contribute to AoA's policy and
program development priorities.
Supports the Assistant Secretary for Aging in implementing section
203(1) of the OAA by coordinating, advising, consulting with and
cooperating with the head of each department, agency and
instrumentality of the Federal Government proposing or administering
programs or services substantially related to the objectives of the
OAA. Oversees the consultation process by which agency heads must
consult with AoA before establishing programs or services related to
the OAA. Plans and implements the process for the collaboration of all
Federal agencies with AoA in the execution by those agencies of
programs and services related to the OAA.
Provides technical, program and policy development input on
legislative activities and the annual budget development cycle.
Participates in Departmental and inter-departmental activities that
concern health and social services; reviews and comments on
Departmental regulations and policies regarding health programs and
institutional and non-institutional long-term care services. Provides
agency-wide leadership on the programmatic functions of AoA's
discretionary grant programs. Plans and directs activities authorized
under Title IV of the OAA as amended. Conducts activities for the
development of adequate knowledge for improving the circumstances of
older people. Develops a knowledge base for policy decisions and
program development and coordination through support of a wide range of
research, demonstration, and training activities.
Prepares the planning documents for, and coordinates the
development of, annual discretionary funds program announcements.
Provides technical input for Congressional and budget presentations
related to research and demonstration programs. Evaluates research,
demonstration and training grant and contract proposals; and recommends
approval/disapproval, monitors progress, gives technical guidance to,
and evaluates the performance of grantees and contractors. Develops
standards and identifies successful service and systems development
strategies and best practice models for use by the Aging Network.
Develops technical assistance material and dissemination strategies for
these strategies, models, and best practice suggestions, in
coordination with the other AoA offices.
Conducts relevant policy research and program demonstrations to
inform policy and program development; undertakes qualitative and
quantitative analyses to develop policy options and recommendations for
the Assistant Secretary for Aging. Develops policy reports based on the
needs and circumstances of older people, their family members and the
aging population. Manages a program for the collection, analysis, and
dissemination of information related to the needs and problems of older
persons. Develops and coordinates initiatives with other Federal
agencies, national aging organizations and universities to fill gaps in
information in the field of aging. Reviews research findings from the
literature and products from AoA, the Aging Network, and other sources
regarding information on aging to identify new findings that will be
useful to older people and professionals operating in the field of
aging. Determines the relative utility of such products, and in
collaboration with the Office of Communications, their potential users
and the most effective way to disseminate the information to users.
Promotes coordination of AoA's research and demonstrations with
other national, field and local programs related to aging. Within
overall AoA strategy and long-range plans, conducts continuing studies
and periodic reviews of needs and resources in the field of aging, and
makes recommendations for action to the Assistant Secretary for Aging.
C. Center for Program Operations (BF)
BF.00 Mission.
BF.10 Organization.
BF.20 Functions.
BF.00 Mission. The Center for Program Operations (CPO) advises the
Assistant Secretary for Aging on and provides leadership related to
programs under the OAA.
BF.10 Organization. A Deputy Assistant Secretary who reports
directly to the Assistant Secretary for Aging heads the Center for
Program Operations. The Center is organized as follows:
Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program Operations
(BF).
Office of Evaluation (BFA).
Office of Core Programs (BF1).
Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian
Programs (BF2).
Office of Elder Rights (BF3).
Office of Regional Operations (BFD1 to BFDX).
BE.20 Functions.
1. Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program Operations
(BF). The Office of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program
Operations (ODASPO) provides program expertise on program development,
advocacy and initiatives within assigned areas. Provides leadership on
behalf of Titles III, VI and VII of the OAA; those parts of Title II
and Title IV of the OAA for which the Office is responsible; and
Section 398 of the Public Health Service Act (PHSA). Plans, directs and
evaluates the programs under the OAA designed to provide planning,
coordination and services to older Americans through grant programs
authorized under Titles II, III, IV, VI, and VII of the OAA.
Consults with and provides technical assistance to and education
for State and Area Agencies on Aging, Tribal grantees, and local
community service providers in the development of plans, goals, and
system development activities. Ensures that statutory requirements,
regulations, policies, and instructions are implemented for Titles III,
VI and VII, and for the functions under Title II and Title IV of the
OAA for which the Office is responsible, as well as for Section 398 of
the PHSA. In addition, the Deputy Assistant Secretary provides
oversight and leadership to the Nutrition Officer established in Title
II of the OAA who provides technical assistance and guidance to
Regional Support Centers, States, Area Agencies on Aging and community
service providers.
The Deputy Assistant Secretary carries out the functions and serves
as the Director of the Office of long-term Care Ombudsman Programs
established in Section 201(d)(1) of the OAA. Serves as the effective
and visible advocate regarding Federal policies and laws that may
adversely affect the health, safety, welfare, or rights of older
residents of long-term care facilities; reviews Federal legislation,
regulations, and policies regarding long-term care ombudsman programs
and makes recommendations
[[Page 1352]]
to the Secretary and Assistant Secretary; coordinates the activities of
AoA with other Federal, State and local entities relating to long-term
care ombudsman programs; prepares an annual report to Congress on the
effectiveness of services provided by State long-term care ombudsman
programs; and establishes standards for the training of State long-term
care ombudsman staff.
Supervises and provides technical guidance to the Regional Support
Centers as they implement the national programs of the OAA. Ensures
that clear and consistent guidance is given on program and policy
directives. Issues substantive operating procedures to guide Regional
staff of AoA in the conduct of their responsibilities; and establishes
standards for performance plans and regularly assesses the performance
against the established standards.
2. Office of Evaluation (BFA). The Office of Evaluation (OE)
implements, oversees and manages responsibilities assigned by the
Government Performance and Results Act of 1993 (GPRA). Interprets AoA
goals, priorities, and strategies for consistency with AoA long-range
GPRA goals and strategies, and adjusts GPRA goals and strategies
accordingly. Provides guidance and technical assistance to AoA
organizational units in developing operational plans, particularly in
developing measurable objectives and indicators reflecting program and
organizational performance. Prepares AoA's annual GPRA plan and report
and coordinates with Office of Budget and Finance on the development of
the AoA performance budget.
Develops AoA plans and priorities for evaluation of AoA grant
programs, with subject matter input from appropriate units. Manages
contracting for mandated evaluation projects and performs intramural
evaluation studies. Prepares reports of the results of program and
impact evaluations conducted by and for AoA, with technical input from
other AoA units. Provides technical guidance on evaluation activities
conducted as part of AoA's discretionary grants programs.
Coordinates AoA activities related to the collection, analysis, and
dissemination of national and program data on older individuals.
Develops and manages all aspects of data requirements associated with
home and community-based services programs under Title III of the OAA.
Develops and designs the criteria for collecting, analyzing and
disseminating program performance data on State and Area Agencies'
implementation of OAA programs, and prepares that data for reporting to
Congress and the public. Designs, implements and provides guidance and
technical assistance to State and Area Agencies on Aging and service
providers on data collection and analysis (section 202(b)(28)) and on
uniform data collection procedures for State Units on Aging (section
202(b)(29)).
Develops and operates, in coordination with the Office of
Administrative and Technology Services, a National Aging Program
Information System focused on the information needs of AoA and the
Network on Aging to both manage and advocate for the delivery of
effective and efficient services to the elderly. Provides liaison with
the Federal Task Force on Aging Statistics in support of planning and
program requirements. Performs routine and special statistical analyses
of data for AoA offices, other Federal and non-Federal organizations,
and the general public.
3. Office of Core Programs (BF1). The Office of Core Programs (OCP)
serves as the focal point within AoA for the operation, administration,
management, and assessment of the programs authorized under Title III
of the OAA and section 398 of the PHSA. In addition, the Office
performs the functions under Title II of the OAA related to
consultation with other Federal agencies and the provision of
information about aging services and programs in order to enhance
service coordination and delivery.
Implements Title III of the OAA through the development of
regulations, policies and guidance governing the development and
enhancement of comprehensive and coordinated home and community-based
care service delivery systems by State and Area Agencies on Aging. This
includes implementing and enhancing systems for supportive services and
the operation of multi-purpose senior centers, congregate and home-
delivered nutrition services, health promotion and disease prevention
services, and caregiver support and assistance services.
Provides guidance regarding State Plan processing and approval, the
process and criteria for approval of States? Intrastate Funding
Formulas for the allocation and targeting of resources within States,
and implementation of the Interstate Funding Formula for distribution
of Title III funds among States. Fosters, oversees, ensures
accountability and assesses the implementation of Title III by States
and Area Agencies through guidance and direction to Regional staff
regarding program reviews and program and system development and
enhancements. Designs and provides training and technical assistance
for program compliance, effectiveness, and enhancement.
Directs and assesses the development of State-administered, home
and community-based long-term care systems, and social and supportive
services for the elderly. Initiates and encourages expansion of the
capacities of home and community-based social service and health care
systems to deliver comprehensive services to the elderly. Provides
technical and subject matter expertise for the development of these
systems, targeted at enhancing the capabilities of State and Area
Agencies and local community service delivery programs to improve their
service to older people. Coordinates with the Office of Planning and
Policy Development to achieve a fully integrated approach for the
enhancement of systems of care throughout the nation.
Provides specialized input on programs under the OAA to long-range
planning, operational plans and the budget process.
Carries out the functions of the designated nutrition officer, who
coordinates nutritional services under the Act and develops the
regulations and guidelines, and provides technical assistance regarding
nutrition to the AoA Regional Support Centers, State and Area Agencies,
nutrition service providers, and other organizations. Serves as the
liaison to the United States Department of Agriculture and other
Federal agencies and organizations related to nutrition policy and
program issues.
Coordinates with the Office of Evaluation to conduct operational
studies, program analyses, and evaluations on special issues of concern
to the Secretary, the Assistant Secretary, Regional Support Centers,
and State and Area Agencies on Aging. Prepares reports on program
operations under Title III for the Assistant Secretary, other AoA
offices, the Secretary, the President, Congress and the public. Through
the analysis of State Plans, evaluation findings and other relevant
material, identifies potential Title III program and management issues
and develops recommendations to the Assistant Secretary on possible
solutions.
4. Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian
Programs (BF2). The Office for American Indian, Alaskan Native, and
Native Hawaiian Programs (OAIANNHP) administers programs authorized by
Title VI of the Older
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Americans Act. On behalf of individuals who are older Native Americans,
serves as the effective and visible advocate within the Department,
with other Departments and agencies of the Federal Government, and with
State, local and tribal governments providing leadership and
coordination of activities, services and policies affecting American
Indians, Alaskan Natives and Native Hawaiian elders. Advocates and
promotes linkages among national Indian organizations, national aging
organizations, and national provider organizations with the goal of
enhancing the interests of and services to Native American elders.
Recommends to the Assistant Secretary policies and priorities with
respect to the development and operation of programs and activities
relating to individuals who are older Native Americans. The Office
coordinates activities among other Federal departments and agencies to
ensure a continuum of improved services through memoranda of agreements
or through other appropriate means of coordination. Carries out the
following responsibilities of Title II: Evaluates the outreach under
Title III and Title VI and recommends necessary action to improve
service delivery, outreach, and coordination between Title III and
Title VI services; encourages and assists the provision of information
to older Native Americans with need for Supplemental Security Income,
Medicaid, food assistance, housing assistance, and transportation
assistance; develops research plans, conducts and arranges for research
in the field of Native American aging; collects, analyzes, and
disseminates information related to problems experienced by older
Native Americans, including information on health status of older
individuals who are Native Americans, elder abuse, in-home care, and
other problems unique to Native Americans; develops, implements, and
oversees the uniform data collection procedures for Tribal and Native
Hawaiian Organizations; and implements and oversees the consultation
requirements of Title II as they apply to Native American issues.
Chairs the Interagency Task Force on Older Indians which is
comprised of representatives from the Federal departments and agencies
with an interest in the welfare of individuals who are older Indians
and makes recommendations to the Assistant Secretary at six-month
intervals, to facilitate coordination among federally funded programs
and improve services to older Indians.
Provides the Native American input to the Office of Planning and
Policy Development for inclusion in AoA's research plan. In addition,
collaborates with the Office of Core Programs on Title VI-Title III
coordination.
Provides input and feedback to the Office of Planning and Policy
Development for the development and operation of Resource Centers on
Native American Elders, which gather information, perform research,
provide for dissemination of results of the research, and provide
technical assistance and training to those who provide services to
Native American elders.
Provides specialized input on Title VI programs and the Native
American components of Title II and Title VII-B programs to other
offices for long-range planning, operational plans, research and
training, and the budget process. Develops testimony and background
documents concerning Native Americans for use by the Assistant
Secretary.
Serves as the AoA focal point for the administration and assessment
of the programs authorized under Title VI and the Native American
Organization provisions of Title VII-B of the OAA, including
administering grants, cooperative agreements and contracts. Implements
the American Indian, Alaskan Native, and Native Hawaiian programs in
the field through provision of program and policy direction, training
and oversight to the Regional Support Centers in the execution of the
Native American components of their Title II, Title VI and Title VII-B
responsibilities. Oversees the Regional Support Centers monitoring of
Title VI grantees. Arranges for and manages ongoing training and
technical assistance for Title VI grantees. Coordinates additional
training and technical assistance with other projects managed by the
Office of Planning and Policy Development.
5. Office of Elder Rights (BF3). The Office of Elder Rights (OER)
provides support to the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program
Operations for the administration of the ombudsman, elder abuse
prevention, legal assistance development, and pension counseling
provisions of Titles II and VII of the OAA throughout the Aging
Network, including administration of the National Ombudsman Resource
Center and the National Center on Elder Abuse, and advising the
Assistant Secretary on the operation of those Centers. In addition, OER
administers the Senior Medicare Patrol projects under Title IV of the
OAA and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of
1997.
Reviews State Plans to determine eligibility for funding under the
OAA and recommends approval or disapproval to the Assistant Secretary.
Implements Title VII in the field through the provision to Regional
Support Centers of guidance and information concerning AoA programs,
and the development and interpretation of Title VII program regulations
and policy. Ensures the implementation of guidance and instructions
concerning long-term care ombudsman, prevention of elder abuse, and
elder rights and legal assistance development programs. Provides
guidance and leadership in the development of the pension counseling
program and effective models for nationwide replication.
Fosters, oversees, ensures accountability and assesses the
implementation of Title VII by States through guidance and direction to
Regional staff regarding program reviews, and program and system
development and enhancements. Designs and provides training and
technical assistance for program compliance, effectiveness, and
enhancement.
Conducts staff functions and responsibilities for the operation of
the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program and makes recommendations to the
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Program Operations for program and
policy enhancement. Serves as the agency's focal point for
coordinating, implementing, monitoring, expanding, evaluating, and
promoting efforts to provide consumer information, education and
protection designed to detect, prevent and report error, fraud and
abuse in the Medicare and Medicaid programs. Provides in-depth
expertise, information, leadership and technical assistance through the
Regional Support Centers to the Senior Medicare Patrol network and
serves as a reliable clearinghouse of information for the aging
network, older persons and their families. Provides specialized input
on Title VII and consumer protection programs to long-range planning,
operational plans and the budget process. Develops program plans and
instructions for AoA Regional Support Centers and State and Area
Agencies to improve the Title VII protection and representational
programs funded under the OAA.
6. Office of Regional Operations (BFD1-BFDX). The Office of
Regional Operations report to the Deputy Assistant Secretary, CPO. The
Office of Regional Operations include a coordinating central office
liaison and nine Regional Support Centers, each of
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which is headed by a Regional Administrator (RA).
The Regional Support Centers serve as the focal point for the
development, coordination and administration of OAA programs within the
designated HHS region. Represent the Assistant Secretary for Aging
within the region, providing information for, and contributing to the
development of, national policy dealing with the elderly. Based on
national policy and priorities, establish field program goals and
objectives. Serve as the effective and visible advocates for the
elderly to Federal agencies in their geographic jurisdiction to ensure
the rights of the elderly; advise, consult and cooperate with each
Federal agency proposing or administering programs or services related
to the aging; coordinate and assist in the planning and development by
public (including Federal, State, Tribal and local agencies) and
private organizations of comprehensive and coordinated services and
opportunities for older individuals in each community of the nation;
and conduct active public education of officials and citizens and the
aged to ensure broad understanding of the needs and capabilities of the
aged.
Monitor, assist and evaluate State Agencies on Aging administering
programs supported under Titles II, III and VII of the OAA, and Indian
Tribal Organizations administering projects under Title VI. Review OAA
State Plans on Aging and recommend approval or disapproval to the
Assistant Secretary for Aging, as appropriate. Review applications and
recommend approval or disapproval of Title VI applications to the
Assistant Secretary.
Advise the Assistant Secretary of problems and progress of programs
through the Deputy Assistant Secretary, CPO; recommend to the Assistant
Secretary changes that would improve OAA operations; evaluate the
effectiveness of OAA and related programs in the Regions and recommend
to the Assistant Secretary or take positive action to gain improvement;
and guide agencies and grantees in applications of policy to specific
operational issues requiring resolution. Facilitate interagency
cooperation at the Federal, Regional Support Center, State and Tribal
levels to enhance resources and assistance available to the elderly.
Disseminate and provide technical assistance regarding program
guidelines and developments to State and Area Agencies, Indian Tribal
Organizations and local community service providers.
II. Delegations of Authority: All delegations and redelegations of
authority made to officials and employees of affected organizational
components will continue in them or their successors pending further
redelegations.
III. Funds, Personnel and Equipment: Transfer of organizations and
functions affected by this reorganization shall be accompanied in each
instance by direct and support funds, positions, personnel, records,
equipment, supplies and other resources.
Dated: December 26, 2007.
Michael O. Leavitt,
Secretary.
[FR Doc. E8-39 Filed 1-7-08; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4154-01-P