Family Care Councils Meet

Representatives from the 15 Family Care Councils met on July 19 and 20 in Orlando. New chairperson Patricia Oglesby led the meeting. There was a presentation over the phone from Agency for Persons with Disabilities Chief of Staff David Dobbs about the July 17 public meeting on the redesign of the iBudget Florida waiver. There was an active discussion on this topic with FCC members wanting to provide their thoughts to APD. Next, Communications Director Melanie Mowry Etters shared an update of the happenings around the Adult Day Training Redesign project, including the upcoming webinar on August 6 at 10 a.m.

There was an excellent presentation on the TSA Cares program by Orlando Travel Trainer Jessica Davila. This program helps people with disabilities navigate going through the security clearance process. People are encouraged to call 72 hours ahead of traveling and a TSA officer will personally escort the individual through security. The number to call is 1-855-787-2227 (available weekdays 8 a.m.-11 p.m.)

The Agency for Health Care Administration Waiver Program Administrator Kimberly Quinn presented on several topics. The new Managed Care dental program brought about a lively discussion on its shortcomings in meeting the needs of people with developmental disabilities. Quinn said individuals should first receive dental services through Medicaid State Plan; then if needed, with expanded benefits the dental plans are providing; and, third through the iBudget waiver, as individuals can use the waiver for anything not provided through the other two options. Quinn encouraged everyone to share their complaints with the complaint portal so AHCA can have statistics to support any changes to the program contract in the future.

Quinn said AHCA is developing the Working People with Disabilities program passed by the Legislature that allows people to make up to $4,125 a month and keep their benefits. Individuals can also have up to $13,000 in assets. AHCA plans to submit a state plan amendment to federal CMS to authorize this program.


Orlando Travel Trainer Jessica Davila gave a presentation on the TSA Cares program.