Bureau of Developmental Services: Moving Forward Together

Currently, BDS provides access to services for adults with developmental disabilities (primarily) through the Developmental Disability (DD) Waiver. The DD Waiver provides access to services to eligible individuals, but the service definitions in the Waiver are very broad and do not always provide equitable access across the state.  In order to make services more consistent across the state and improve access, the Department is improving the DD Waiver. This means that BDS is working to revise existing service definitions and develop new service definitions that are more specific and detailed than the current definitions. In the future, BDS may also develop an additional waiver for DD services.  The goal is to improve access to the services that most effectively meet each individual’s needs and goals.

Reimbursing service providers appropriately is critical to ensuring an adequate provider network is in place to support individuals. BDS currently uses rates developed in 2007. This outdated rate system has led to challenges for providers in ensuring they are reimbursed for the true cost of services provided. This outdated rate system has also caused further misalignment in matching the needs of an individual with the right amount of funding and service, as well as the ability of individuals and/or family members to more easily choose from and switch to different providers within the network. BDS is looking to develop an updated and more transparent rate methodology that puts the direct support workforce at the core of rate development, while ensuring appropriate service costs are accurately accounted for.

BDS has long operated using outdated, siloed data and information systems. Effective systems are key to ensuring a smooth flow of information between BDS, Area Agencies and providers to promote service access and monitoring. BDS is looking to build a more robust information technology structure that is agile and robust for supporting case management functions, service authorizations and payment processes.