Setting Sail For Home

In the last post we looked into the background of the HCBS Waiver Program, beginning with the ADA and Olmstead v. L.C., 527 U.S. 581 (1999). In the 1980s, while Medicaid continued to be instrumental in keeping people shelved in institutions, Congress enacted Section 1915 (c) of the Social Security Act. The section was part of the Omnibus Reconciliation Act (OBRA). This was important, because Section 1915 (c) opened the door for sweeping reform, but change was cumbersome and slow to come. 

Over decades the cost of institutional care continued to escalate. Meanwhile media coverage of nursing home scandals, consumer discontent and a major movement in consumer advocacy were on the rise, as well. Ultimately the concept of MFP, Money Follows the Person, proved an innovative, simplified vehicle for funding individual transitions from institutional care in all the states. The Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 authorized MFP funding; under President Obama, The Affordable Care Act expanded it.

Today HCBS can work miracles in peoples lives, opening a world of opportunity, while keeping costs down. In March 2013 Colorado Medicaid announced the launch of the Colorado Choice Transition Program. The Colorado program will be funded through a $22 million, five-year grant; one goal of the initiative is to move 490 Medicaid recipients from long term care facilities to home and community-based environments. 

An end to discrimination also brings the benefits of inclusivity to communities. An inclusive community is a vibrant, one in which the energy, talents, creativity and experience of all members are valued. In a June 2013 press release, Housing Secretary Shaun Donovan, made the following statement:

“There is a tremendous need for affordable housing where individuals with disabilities are able to live and be part of the very fabric of their communities,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “HUD is committed to offering housing options that enable individuals with disabilities to live in the most integrated settings possible and to fully participate in community life.”Read the rest of the release here: 

http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/press/press_releases_media_advisories/2013/HUDNo.13-086

Jimmy Dean once said, "I can't change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination." Through CCT, so many people will be able to adjust their sails to reach home.