Developmental Disabilities Administration outlines audit recommendations to improve client services

In a recent meeting of the Joint Legislative Audit & Review Committee (JLARC), significant discussions centered on the audit of the Developmental Disability Administration (DDA) processes and staffing. The meeting, held on May 14, 2025, highlighted critical recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of services provided to individuals with developmental disabilities in Washington State.

The legislative auditor's report revealed that the DDA has not adequately analyzed its processes to determine how well they serve clients or to establish best practices for staffing levels. The audit identified three key recommendations for improvement. First, the DDA should develop and implement performance metrics to evaluate the effectiveness of its processes and enhance service timeliness. Second, it is essential for the DDA to establish quality controls to ensure the reliability and accuracy of the data used for reporting and performance management. Lastly, the DDA should adopt a workforce planning approach to assess the number of case managers and staff required to meet client needs effectively.

As of July 2024, the DDA served over 58,000 clients with a workforce of more than 600 case managers. The services provided include assistance with daily tasks, skills training, and caregiver respite, funded through state and federal Medicaid resources. However, client feedback indicated that many experienced challenges during the application and assessment processes, leading to confusion and delays in accessing services.

The DDA's director of field services, Jamie Bond, acknowledged the audit findings and expressed agreement with the recommendations. Bond emphasized the importance of evaluating the entire process from application to service delivery, noting that while some metrics are tracked, a comprehensive understanding of the overall timeline is lacking. The DDA has already begun implementing measures to improve data quality and is in the process of reorganizing to enhance service delivery.

The meeting also addressed the need for a thorough evaluation of case manager responsibilities, particularly as the population served becomes increasingly diverse and complex. The DDA aims to ensure that staffing levels are appropriate and that case managers are equipped to meet the evolving needs of clients.

In conclusion, the JLARC meeting underscored the necessity for the DDA to adopt a more strategic approach to performance evaluation and workforce planning. The recommendations, if implemented effectively, could lead to improved outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities in Washington State, ensuring they receive timely and adequate support. The DDA's commitment to these changes will be crucial as they move forward in enhancing their service delivery framework.