Coordinating Medicaid Services and Supports for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Constraints in the Medicaid fee-for-service system limit access to individualized, high-quality services and supports for individuals with I/DD. Consequently, states are increasingly moving towards MCOs to address these challenges. MCOs engage in a person-centered approach that addresses the needs and preferences of beneficiaries and increases opportunities for self-direction and informed decision-making. MCOs’ whole person approach connects individuals to services and supports that help them go to work, attend school, and participate in other community activities.

This paper describes how partnering with an MCO can improve outcomes for beneficiaries — including greater independence, reduction in service gaps, attainment of individual goals, and better quality of life.