Illinois Person Centered Planning Process
“Purpose:
This Information Bulletin informs Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) stakeholders of changes to the Person-Centered Planning process.
Background:
Person-centered planning using conflict-of-interest-free case management is a requirement for people receiving Medicaid waiver services. In 2017, Illinois transitioned the responsibility of writing the Personal Plan to Independent Service Coordinators (ISCs) which had previously been the responsibility of service providers. Service providers are responsible for writing Implementation Strategies which reflect what is written in the Personal Plan. In the spring of 2021, the DDD within the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) contracted with the Institute on Disability and Human Development at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) to evaluate the person-centered planning process and make recommendations to improve the process for all stakeholders.
Person-Centered Planning Process:
The person-centered planning (PCP) process uses a Discovery Process to develop a person-centered plan (Personal Plan). The Discovery Process and development of the Personal Plan are to be completed by the ISCs. The service providers then use the Personal Plan to develop the Implementation Strategy. The process is directed by the individual, with assistance as needed or desired from a representative of the individual’s choosing. It is intended to identify the strengths, capacities, preferences, needs, and desired measurable outcomes of the individual. The process may include others, freely chosen by the individual, who are able to serve as important contributors to the process. The PCP process empowers the individual by building on their specific abilities and skills, building a quality lifestyle that supports the individual to find ways to contribute to the community. The planning process must also include planning for contingencies such as when a needed service is not provided due to the support worker being out sick. The back-up plan must become a part of the individual’s Personal Plan.”