POLICY REGARDING RESIDENT TRANSITIONS
The Illinois Department of Human Services' (IDHS) goal is to ensure that people with I/DD are able to live in the setting that best suits their individual choice and needs. People with I/DD are entitled to a continuum of living options, including but not limited to home- and community-based settings, private intermediate care facilities, and State Operated Developmental Centers (SODCs).
When an individual moves out of an SODC to a different setting, the Division of Developmental Disabilities, DDD staff work together to assist them with a safe and successful adjustment to their new home. DDD staff members are committed to working with residents, families, and guardians to provide the support that individual residents need to be successful in their transition to a different setting.
Periodic monitoring of a resident's adjustment is critical in this effort. Crisis Management Teams/Support Service Teams are available, as needed, to bring stability and support to those with significant medical and/or behavioral issues. This support includes technical assistance and expert intervention in coordination with community agencies.
If, after the resident's placement, the service provider and DDD's Bureau of Transitional Services staff conclude that despite good faith efforts at creating a stable, positive living arrangement, the transition has not yielded the stability and quality of life needed by the resident, IDHS will work with the individual to find an alternate placement within the continuum of living options, centered on the resident's choice and wishes, including SODCs, as appropriate.
The statute and rules that govern this process can be found in Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Code, 405 ILCS 5/1-100, 59 Ill. Admin. Code 112, Treatment and Habilitation Services, and 59 Ill. Admin. Code 120, Medicaid Home- and Community- Based Services Waiver Program for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities.
