h_phc_2016a_2016-01-14t13:31:11z1 Hearing Summary

Date: 01/14/2016

03:19 PM -- Update on Waiting Lists for Services for People with IDD



Megan Davisson, JBC staff, distributed a JBC staff memorandum titled Joint Meeting with the Joint Budget Committee on the Waiting List for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Pursuant to Section 25.5-10-207.5 (2), C.R.S. (Attachment B). Ms. Davisson discussed the number of individuals waiting for services under the various waivers. She explained that some individuals on the waiting lists are receiving services from other programs including food assistance, and some Medicaid services, while on the waiting list.



160114 AttachB.pdf



03:27 PM



Jed Ziegenhagen, Director, Office of Community Living, HCPF, provided a handout to the committee (Attachment C), and discussed the role of the Office of Community Living. He discussed the Home- and Community-Based (HCBS) waivers administered by his office. He stated that 2081 people are waiting for services. He explained that these individuals are eligible for services, but are not receiving services at the level they need.



160114 AttachC.pdf



03:34 PM



Barb Ramsey, Director, Division of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, HCPF, discussed steps HCPF has taken to build capacity within the Children's Extensive Support Waivers. She also explained the process used to enroll clients into waiver programs, and the emergency placement protocol for those individuals who are on the waitlist, but, due to a change in circumstances, need services immediately.



03:43 PM



Randy Brodersen, Executive Director, North Metro Community Services, Inc., discussed waiver waitlists, resources available to provide the waiver services, the desire of some clients to remain on the waitlist for an extended period of time, and the provider reimbursement rates.



03:48 PM



Debbie Spencer, Chief Executive Director, Overture, stated that her agency serves clients in Jefferson and Boulder Counties. She explained that her agency has difficulty finding adequate providers for clients due to low reimbursement rates. She discussed the assessment tools used to determine the needs of clients. She expressed her opinion that the wait list will not be eliminated until the issues around low provider rates and the appropriate determination of a clients needs are addressed.



03:59 PM



Committee discussion followed regarding the stress of caring for a family member with disabilities causes within the family and the need to provide supports for these families.