State institution closings make sense
Governor Quinn has proposed the closure of Mabley and Jacksonville Developmental Centers. I fully support the closure of all state operated residential facilities in a way that allows for the safe transfer of individuals as well as the provision of quality supports for a meaningful life.
Ÿ Government Operations. Illinois should not be in the business of operating residential facilities for people with disabilities. It can be done more effectively and efficiently in the private sector. The privatization of this line of service should be the preferred model.
Ÿ Success. Fourteen states have closed their institutions. Illinois institutionalizes more people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities than 48 other states. Many studies of Illinois’ developmental disability system by national experts clearly state the need to move away from institutional spending and invest in community services.
Ÿ Rebalance. The federal government is offering states enhanced Medicaid match funds as a way to move from large institutional settings toward smaller homes for four or fewer individuals. This is an opportunity to rebalance by reallocating funds during the veto session to ensure the smooth transition of individuals to the community. A supplemental appropriation may also be needed next year because the savings from the closure of an institution lag a year or two behind the closure. I urge you to support sufficient funding to rebalance Illinois’ system of service provision toward community services.
Ÿ Community Capacity. As Illinois moves toward a rebalancing of the Medicaid long term care system, it is essential the state also focus on building community capacity so that individuals with complex medical and or behavioral challenges have innovative supports available to them.
Ÿ Quality. As people transition from state operated residential facilities to new options in the community, their service plans need to be person-centered and include outcomes for success.
Cathy Terrill
Elmhurst