Pennsylvania Continues Progress on Addressing Waiting List
According to a recent Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) newsletter, “Over the years, service expansion has made a definite impact on the ODP waiting list. In April 2006 there were 24,500 people waiting for service, and as of November 30, 2018, the waiting list is nearing half that size with 13,309 people awaiting service.”
The newsletter further states “Through Targeted Supports Management funding, ODP also expanded supports coordination for 2,000 people who were waiting for services. The 2018-19 budget includes funding to enable an additional 1,765 individuals with ID and/or autism to access waivers to provide supports and services, so they can remain in their home and community and live an “everyday life.” ODP has reduced the waiting lists through several initiatives, including expanded services for 100 individuals on the emergency waiting list through the Consolidated Waiver. $10.2M to serve 800 2018 school graduates on the waiting list through the Community Living and Person/Family-Directed Support waivers, and 800 2019 school graduates in the Community Living and P/FDS waivers (beginning June 1, 2019).
Expanded services for 40 additional adults with ASD on the waiting list through the Adult Com- munity Autism Program. Expanded services for 25 individuals currently residing in the state centers.”