However, staying safely at home or in the community can be challenging. People with developmental disabilities may need daily supports, like help with meals, bathing, medications, transportation, or using specialized medical equipment. These supports help individuals live as independently as possible while giving family members peace of mind.

Home and Community-Based Services, known as HCBS, were created to provide oversight to these important supports. HCBS programs help individuals choose where they live and how they receive services, to make sure people are included in their communities, not isolated from them.

In Virginia, HCBS became a critical part of how the state supports individuals with developmental disabilities after a legal settlement between the Department of Justice and the Commonwealth of Virginia. In 2012, the Department of Justice found that Virginia was relying too heavily on institutional care and not providing enough opportunities for people with disabilities to live and receive services in the community. As a result, Virginia agreed to expand its Home and Community-Based Services so that more individuals could live safely in homes and neighborhoods rather than institutions.

Understanding HCBS

HCBS refers to a set of Medicaid-funded services that help people with developmental disabilities who qualify for long-term care supports remain in their homes or communities. At New Point Life Services, these services include residential support in group homes, day support programs, assistance with daily living activities, community interaction, and personalized care plans to help individuals live safely, independently, and with dignity.

Key features of HCBS include person-centered care, which means services are tailored to the individual’s goals and choices. It also includes self-direction, meaning individuals and their families can help choose their providers and decide how services are delivered. Community integration is another focus, with services designed to help individuals participate fully in community life.

In Virginia, HCBS is often provided through Medicaid waiver programs, such as the Community Living Waiver, Family and Individual Support Waiver, and Building Independence Waiver. Each waiver offers different services depending on the individual’s needs and living situation.

Who Manages HCBS

Each state runs its own HCBS programs under guidelines from the federal government. In Virginia, HCBS services are managed by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, known as DBHDS, in partnership with local Community Services Boards.

Each state sets rules about who qualifies for services, what services are offered, and how many people can receive services. Some programs have waiting lists. Individuals must meet eligibility requirements, usually based on disability, functional needs, and income.

What Are the Responsibilities of HCBS Recipients

Individuals who receive HCBS must participate in creating and updating their plan of care. They are expected to use services as outlined in their plan, attend annual assessments to determine ongoing needs, report any changes in needs or living situation, and keep required paperwork up to date.

Benefits and Challenges of HCBS

Benefits of HCBS include supporting people to live in their chosen home or community, promoting independence and dignity, providing personalized care based on individual goals, and helping prevent institutional placement.

Challenges of HCBS can include limited availability of qualified caregivers in some areas, waiting lists for some waiver programs, families needing to coordinate multiple services, and complex rules and paperwork.

Why HCBS Matters

Home and Community Based Services give people with developmental disabilities the chance to build meaningful, independent lives in their communities. It allows families to keep loved ones close while ensuring they have the care and support they need.

If you or your loved one is interested in HCBS in Virginia, contact your local Community Services Board to learn about eligibility, waiting lists, and available services. You can also learn more about Virginia’s Medicaid waiver programs at the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services website at dbhds.virginia.gov.

Final Thoughts

HCBS can help individuals stay connected to their families, friends, and communities while receiving the supports they need. Whether you are a parent caring for a child with disabilities or supporting an adult loved one, understanding HCBS is an important step in planning for a safe, independent, and fulfilling future.