Currently, support and services meant to keep people with developmental disabilities out of institutions (Occupational Therapy, Personal Supports, Physical Therapy, etc.) are provided through the iBudget program. During the 2023 Florida legislative session, legislators authorized a pilot program to provide those additional services to people with developmental disabilities through Medicaid-managed care plans.
The pilot program comes after long-running concerns about the 22,000+ people with developmental disabilities stuck on the iBudget waiting list for services. It will serve up to 600 people in Miami-Dade, Monroe, Hardee, Highlands, Hillsborough, Manatee and Polk counties. Enrollment will be voluntary.
AHCA is now conducting a 30-day public notice and comment period prior to the submission of the new waiver request to the CMS. The 30-day public notice and public comment period goes through August 27, 2023.
There are concerns about using the managed care model to provide these critical services for Floridians. Though it is at least a new approach, the priority should be that this population receives the care they need and not managed for a profit.
If you are interested in submitting comments:
You can use the form below to send an email with one click. Comments are pre-loaded but you can edit them however you see fit.
You can also submit email comments directly to FLMedicaidWaivers@ahca.myflorida.com. Include “Comprehensive Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Managed Care Pilot Waiver” in the subject line.
You can also mail comments to Bureau of Medicaid Policy, Agency for Health Care Administration, 2727 Mahan Drive, MS 20, Tallahassee, Florida 32308.
If you are hearing or speech impaired, please contact the agency using the Florida Relay Service,1 (800) 955-8771 (TDD) or 1 (800) 955-8770 (Voice).