Family or Individual Directed Community Services (FIDCS) Research

Self-direction continues to grow in numerous ways. This is evidenced by the number of waivers offering self-direction, the number of individuals who may avail themselves of self-direction, and the scope of self-direction that states make available. More than 32 states have incorporated self-direction into their 1915(c) Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) waivers. With the passage of the Deficit Reduction Act of 2005 (DRA), states have an additional vehicle which they can employ to offer HCBS to individuals who are aged and individuals who have disabilities. This task order will provide states with individual technical assistance and information to determine the vehicle that will best meet their needs and those of the individuals they wish to serve. The technical assistance will assist states to design and implement participant directed programs that conform to all applicable federal and state guidelines. The contractor, through the scenarios encountered during state specific technical assistance activities, will identify areas requiring systematic guidance. Additionally, the contractor may provide technical assistance to CMS staff as requested by the Project Officer. The contractor will provide CMS with a report of activities, trends, and findings at the end of the contract period.