Those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) sometimes face difficult choices. For instance, they can live in segregated settings, such as group homes, attend day programs, or aim for community living with home and community-based services (HCBS). However, the service system must evolve to offer self-directed, person-centered care for those with disabilities. At Direct Care Innovations, we talk to many providers who see the Jobs Act doing just that.
Community living provides opportunities for those with IDD that those living in segregated settings don't experience. HCBS supports people living in the community, establishing relationships with other community members, navigating employment, and more. For instance, people with autism and other developmental disabilities learn vital life skills and manage daily life quite productively with support and assistance. Self-directed care empowers them, and the result is a meaningful, fulfilled life. Additionally, community living offers more safeguards than what we've seen play out in residential facilities when it comes to COVID-19.
Providing better care for those with disabilities requires individualized care. In other words, services vary according to individual needs.
Government agencies, managed care organizations, and Medicaid & Medicare Agencies participate in a self-directed care system with a direct support workforce. Business management software facilitates day-to-day care management.
In this scenario, those with IDD and their families benefit in several ways. First, home-based care workers and even family members who provide care earn reasonable wages and gain access to benefits, such as paid time off, sick days, health benefits, and more. Second, those with IDD can leverage job coaches to gain employment and navigate scenarios, such as participating in meetings, time management, organization, and anything else that applies to them. Additionally, real-time life skills training helps develop budgeting, house cleaning, grocery shopping, appointment setting, technology support, stress management, and coping skills.
The Jobs Act carves out much-needed funding for HCBS providers. Currently, some people languish on waitlists for years. Others face emergencies before receiving much-needed services. The Jobs Act funding provides a cash infusion that paves the way for self-directed, person-centered care. Instead of being system-based, we can shift toward individualized, transformative care that allows those with IDD to participate in society in a meaningful way.
The Jobs Act could mean better care for those with disabilities. Still, those providing or managing HCBS must continue operating efficiently, achieving EVV compliance, and organizing a changing workforce. Direct Care Innovations offer business management solutions for caregiving agencies in all 50 states to support this effort. If you're interested in learning how our software can streamline your processes, integrate systems into one platform, and make your life easier, schedule a free demo. Or, give us a call at (855) 344-3729.
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