I strongly oppose the proposed DMAS changes that would replace Services Facilitation with a Support Brokerage model. As the single parent of my 23-year-old son who has profound autism, I work full-time while also managing the complex and ongoing responsibilities of ensuring he receives the care, support, and services he needs to live as meaningful and fulfilling a life as possible in the community. My Services Facilitator has been an invaluable partner in helping our family navigate the complicated Medicaid waiver system, understand requirements, avoid service interruptions, and access resources that support my son’s needs.

As a single, full-time working parent, I rely on knowledgeable, responsive professionals who understand the system and can help me navigate its challenges. Services Facilitation provides essential guidance and support that would be difficult to replace, particularly for families like mine who are balancing employment, caregiving, and the many demands of supporting an adult with profound disabilities. Losing this level of individualized assistance could create additional barriers, increase the burden on family caregivers, and jeopardize access to services that are critical to my son’s well-being and community participation.

I am especially concerned about losing the ability to choose a Services Facilitation provider who best understands and meets my family’s needs. Choice and competition help promote quality services and allow families to build trusted relationships with professionals who understand their unique circumstances. A one-size-fits-all approach does not adequately recognize the wide range of needs among individuals with disabilities and the families who support them.

For families like mine, Services Facilitators are far more than administrative support. They are knowledgeable partners who help us successfully manage waiver services, navigate complex requirements, and maintain the supports necessary for our loved ones to remain engaged in their communities. Replacing this model risks removing an essential layer of support from families who are already carrying significant responsibilities.

I respectfully urge DMAS to preserve the current Services Facilitation model and protect families’ ability to choose their providers. Please consider the real-world impact these proposed changes could have on individuals with profound disabilities and the family members who work tirelessly to support them. These services make a meaningful difference in the lives of Virginians with disabilities and their caregivers, and they should be strengthened rather than diminished.

Thank you for considering my comments and for recognizing the importance of preserving individualized, reliable support for Virginia’s Medicaid waiver participants and their families.