Ft. Lauderdale, Florida – I am a Waiver Support Coordinator in BROWARD County Florida. One of my individuals I serve experienced a serious brain injury in a drowning accident 10 years ago. He resides in his family home and is totally dependent on care for all his needs. For almost 7 years he received daily in-home nursing. However in June of 2021, his nurse left to accept a position that paid almost three times more than the rate of reimbursement available under ACHA and the iBudget Waiver. No agency approved under the Waiver has any nurses available since the vast majority have accepted positions that pay substantially more than the Waiver. His mother is elderly, and is doing her best to provide the care required by her son. She loves him dearly and being deeply religious says “ my prayers give me the strength to carry on”.
APD suggested that Waiver Support Coordinators submit specific issues with individuals who’s critical needs are unmet due to the low rates under ACHA. I did submit the details on this individual, no response.
Evidently this is a statewide issue and it’s very disheartening to see the lack of action to help meet the critical needs of our most vulnerable population.