Missouri ranked 4th in nation in efforts to serve individuals with intellectual, developmental disabilities

The annual Care for Inclusion 2019 report ranks states on employment and community living

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Missouri has made significant strides to improve policies that help individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities lead more independent and productive lives.

This determination propels the state to a 4th place ranking in a report compiled by the American Network of Community Options and Resources (ANCOR) Foundation and United Cerebral Palsy (UCP).

“Making services for individuals living with intellectual and developmental disabilities a priority helps contribute to Missouri’s workforce development,” said Governor Parson. “Every Missourian should have the opportunity to live a full, productive life by participating in and contributing to their communities.”

The Case for Inclusion 2019 ranks all 50 states and the District of Columbia on how well state programs, primarily Medicaid, serve those living with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

The states are ranked in five key areas critical to the inclusion, support, and empowerment of individuals with I/DD and their families: Promoting Independence; Promoting Productivity; Keeping Families Together; Serving Those in Need; and Tracking Health, Safety & Quality of Life.

“This national ranking is a great testament to the efforts of our department employees, our provider agencies, and local Senate Bill 40 boards, which continue to make a real, life-changing difference for thousands of Missourians and their families,” Mark Stringer, Director of DMH said,

While Missouri did make important improvements, Missouri, like other states, is still challenged with the number of people living in large, congregate settings and the number of individuals working in competitive employment, meaning they work alongside others without disabilities at a market-driven wage.

The full Case for Inclusion 2019 report, along with scorecards for each state and additional resources, can be downloaded at caseforinclusion.org.

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