Eliminating Service Facilitation in favor of a “Broker” model will negatively impact individuals with disabilities and their families.

Replacing established Service Facilitation agencies would likely shift responsibility to Support Coordinators, who are not trained or resourced to take on these additional responsibilities.  Effective Service Facilitators have built long-term relationships with individuals, families, and CSBs and provide essential guidance through the complex Consumer-Directed system.

The proposed change would also reduce individuals’ ability to choose their preferred Service Facilitation provider, which is an important component of person-centered services and individual choice.  If the intent is for CDCN to subcontract with Service Facilitation agencies, this has not been clearly communicated to providers, and reduced reimbursement could further limit their ability to deliver quality services.

Most concerning is the lack of confidence in the transition process.  Recent changes such as the transition from ModivCare to MTM have demonstrated how inadequate communication and preparation can result in individuals missing critical transportation to essential services.  DMAS and DBHDS should prioritize thorough planning, clear communication, and meaningful stakeholder involvement before making changes that could disrupt services for Virginians with disabilities.