h_hie_2018a_2018-01-18t13:34:03z1 Hearing Summary

Senator Smallwood called the meeting back to order and welcomed Gretchen Hammer, Medicaid Director and Office of Community Living Director, HCPF, and Jennifer Martinez, HCPF, to the table.  A copy of their presentation was distributed [Attachment E].   

Ms. Hammer explained long-term services and supports for the intellectual and developmental disabled (IDD) population.

Ms. Hammer spoke on Medicaid long-term services and supports (LTSS) and enrollment and relevant Medicaid waivers.

Ms. Hammer spoke on updates concerning HB 14-1051, including enrollment data for the Children's Extensive Support, Adult Supported Living Services, and Adult Comprehensive waivers, waiting list, and system design and service delivery.  She continued to speak on capacity building for services for persons with IDD.

Committee members asked questions concerning support services for people with dementia, waiver redesign and implementation, program cost, financial services, financial policy, prioritizing of waitlist, and concerns of a growing waitlist.

Randy Broderson, Executive Director, North Metro Community Services and Doug McNeill, Executive Director, Laradon, presented to the committee on the IDD waitlist.

Mr. McNeill discussed his work and support for people with IDD and reducing the waitlist. He recommended that the General Assembly provide additional resources for support services for people with IDD.

Mr. Brodersen spoke on the workforce crisis for IDD support services providers.  He recommended increased pay for these workers.

Mr. Broderson and Mr. McNeill responded to questions regarding proper use of funding, and wage analysis.