We have made great progress over recent years in meeting the needs of Georgians with developmental disabilities and their families including responding to the Olmstead mandate. During this next year we expect 100 people to move from state institutions into the community with the necessary support. This includes 44 children under the age of 21 who have been growing up in state facilities instead of with loving, supportive families.
We have substantially increased the number of Medicaid Waivers that support individuals with developmental disabilities. In 2005, funds were available to support 925 waivers; an unprecedented 1,500 were awarded this year, and we are committed to building on this progress in the future.
Georgia currently has the oldest Medicaid waivers in the country, ones for the most part, require that people fit into existing program. Today, the Department of Human Resources Office of Developmental Disabilities is rewriting the waiver program in order to give more people with developmental disabilities support based on their exact needs. Under the new waivers, people with disabilities such as Down syndrome, cerebral palsy and autism will be able to have more control over the types of home and community-based services they receive and who provides those services.
Instead of investing in outdated facilities, buildings and programs that segregate people with disabilities, Georgia is investing directly in individuals and families – individuals who want employment, housing, membership in civic and community organizations and families who want to keep their young children at home.
As a result of the new waivers, and consumer-driven services, Georgians with developmental disabilities and their families will have greater control and choice. You can expect the State of Georgia to continue its progress toward providing home and community-based services for our citizens with disabilities. And, as Governor, I look forward to our working together to improve the lives of individuals and families.
Sonny Perdue
Governor
Making a Difference Magazine, Summer 2006
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