I/DD advocates object to proposed changes in waivers for Medicaid-funded services

Concern is spreading that the proposed KanCare changes could lead to some Kansans with developmental disabilities losing access to the case managers they’ve come to rely upon for help in determining which services they need, applying for those services and making sure the services are provided.

“There is potential for significant disruption in how case management is performed in the state for persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” said Matt Fletcher, a spokesperson for InterHab.

The proposed changes could eventually allow the managed care companies now charged with administering KanCare to take over the role now played by case managers.

This could lead to decisions which are now based on an individual’s needs, to be influenced by the companies’ need to turn a profit.

“If that’s allowed to happen, a lot of case management-type services that are available now will no longer be financially viable,” Fletcher said. “That’s a huge issue if you’ve come to rely on this individual.”

KDADS Secretary Kari Bruffett told KHI News that the concern is unfounded. “There are no changes in our DD waiver renewal, at all, that impact targeted case management or that would reduce the service that targeted case managers provide,” she said.

KDADS later provided clarification to the KHI article indicating that while no language existed in the waiver renewal document regarding reductions in services, language was included regarding a mandatory separation of case management and service provision due to conflict of interest concerns at the federal level.

In addition, there is also wide-spread concern about one proposed waiver for services for Kansans with developmental disabilities that would require all attendant care providers to be 18 years old and have a high school degree or GED certificate.

The current waiver allows care providers to be 16 and for some people this could lead to limitations and changes in their services.

The proposed waiver changes, posted on the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services website last month, are subject to federal approval. The deadline for submitting public comment is Saturday, Dec. 20

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