Barber expands Erie AI pilot alongside contract renewal
Barber reported renewed Select Tier status and plans to extend a technology pilot to three additional Erie homes.
Barber National Institute announced on August 18 that Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs renewed its Select Tier status for performance-based contracting. The renewal covers residential services for people with intellectual disabilities and autism. The organization says the review considers staff training, service delivery, data collection, referrals and support for people with complex needs.
Separately, Barber said it is expanding the second phase of its Thryve Labs AI pilot to three additional Erie community homes. The passive system is being tested for environmental awareness, generated shift notes, documentation, observational information for care planning and updates to families. Barber describes the first phase as showing potential to support staff and reduce documentation burdens; the announcement presents an ongoing pilot.
The organization also identifies certification through the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals as a continuing priority. Founded in 1952, Barber provides education, residential, employment and community programs across Pennsylvania and reports serving 5,400 adults and children.
A ErieBizToday briefing examining the news and its implications for Pennsylvania businesses and communities, drawing on the sources and further reporting linked below.