099. The Future of Self-Directed Services: Navigating Proposed Medicaid Cuts_Full Discussion Artwork

The Post Secondary Transition Conversation

We talk about the ins and outs (and everything in between) of the secondary transition process for families of students with disabilities! Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) serve as supportive guides, leading families step-by-step up each rung of the transition ladder.

Also check out our parent website: https://www.postsecondarytransition.com

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The Post Secondary Transition Conversation

099. The Future of Self-Directed Services: Navigating Proposed Medicaid Cuts_Full Discussion

March 23, 2026

0:00 | 56:10

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Hosts Meghan (Smallwood) and Patrick (Cadigan) are joined by Support Broker Jamie Brodnax to examine the far-reaching impact of proposed Medicaid budget cuts on self-directed services. The discussion explores potential policy changes, including potential caps on Person-Centered Plan funding, significant wage reductions, elimination of wage exceptions, and shifts that may minimize key roles like the Day-to-Day Administrator. The trio highlights how these changes could increase documentation requirements and create confusion for families navigating the system. They emphasize both the practical and emotional consequences—particularly for individuals with higher support needs—who may face reduced autonomy, limited service options, and increased reliance on traditional provider-based models. Join the conversation!

Discussion UPDATE Article (link)

Episode Keywords:
budget cuts, self-direction, support broker, family as staff, pay rate cuts, staffing issues, one-to-one support, nursing care plan, behavior support plan, DDA policy changes, geographic differential, live-in caregiver exemption, contingency planning, advocacy groups, legislative updates

Links:
Self-Directed Services (page)
Medicaid - Self-Directed Services (link)
Ep. 032 Self-Direction Deep-Dive_Full Discussion (link)

Maryland (specific) Links/Supports:
Self-Directed Advocacy Network of Maryland (site)
Individual and Family Directed Goods and Services (IFDGS) (link)
Self-Directed Services Guidance and Forms (link)

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To download a copy of a transcript for this episode or any of our previous conversations, click here.
Also visit our Podcast webpage to find links to all of our other discussions; go to www.p2transition.com.
Additional information about post-secondary transition can be found at our website.
The Post-Secondary Transition Podcast Facebook page.
Visit our YouTube Channel to find additional video resources.
Intro/Outro music by AudioCoffee from Pixabay.
Transition music by Joseph McDade from Transistor.