Disability and Aging department seeks funds to cut wait lists, boost direct-support pay and senior nutrition

The Department of Disability and Aging told the Finance, Ways and Means Committee on March 5 that it seeks funding to expand supports for Tennesseans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and for older residents, including funds to reduce wait lists, raise provider rates and formalize a farmers-to-senior-centers food partnership.

Commissioner Brad Turner introduced the department's team and said the department's requests include recurring funding for a DCSDDA partnership to expand support services and care coordination for children with IDD in Department of Children's Services custody; a two-percent rate increase for Tennessee Early Intervention System therapy rates (TEIS); senior-nutrition funding intended to address about 1,800 people on a wait list and increase rates for both congregate and home-delivered meals; and rate increases of 2 percent for direct support professionals (DSPs) and for independent support coordinators.

Deputy Commissioner Andy Kidd described program details. He said the DCSDDA partnership will use private independent support coordinators to help foster families care for children with IDD, and that the department…