The Nebraska Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee discussed upcoming structural changes within the state’s disability services system, including the renaming of the Division of Developmental Disabilities to the Department of Disability and Aging, which takes effect July 18. Committee members raised questions about how aging services, Medicaid waivers and advisory committees will be affected. Director Tony Green outlined priorities including stabilizing services, strengthening provider oversight and improving statewide training standards for care providers.
Much of the meeting focused on concerns surrounding the InterRAI assessment system used to determine service funding levels. Committee members and public commenters questioned the transparency of the assessment and appeals process, access to public records and reductions in support services tied to reassessments. Green said the department has expanded staff training and updated reconsideration notices, while several caregivers and family members described difficulties navigating appeals and concerns about reduced services for individuals with disabilities.
Meeting documented by Journey McManus
Read full meeting notes here
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Leah Wambui Keinama boasts a robust professional journey, commencing as a systems engineer and integrator within the software industry. In this capacity, she excelled in the conception, design, construction, and deployment of software systems, adeptly managing projects from inception to completion. Transitioning into the nonprofit realm, Leah directed her expertise towards enhancing food systems, with a particular emphasis on soil health, regenerative agriculture, and bolstering food accessibility while fostering resilient communities. Her repertoire includes comprehensive program design skills coupled with a profound commitment to community engagement. Leah's fervor for cultivating networks and forging meaningful connections underscores her dedication to advancing organizational goals.
