{'fraction_non_alphanumeric': 0.012842465753424657, 'fraction_numerical': 0.003424657534246575, 'mean_word_length': 6.260869565217392, 'pattern_counts': {'":': 0, '<': 0, '<?xml version=': 0, '>': 0, 'https://': 0, 'lorem ipsum': 0, 'www.': 0, 'xml': 0}, 'pii_count': 0, 'substrings_counts': 0, 'word_list_counts': {'cursed_substrings.json': 1, 'profanity_word_list.json': 0, 'sexual_word_list.json': 0, 'zh_pornsignals.json': 0}}
Implementation of Self-Directed Supports for People With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities in the United States

Self-direction is an approach to human service delivery within long-term services and supports that aims to provide greater control for individuals with disabilities and their closest supporters. The purpose of this study was to understand the implementation of self-directed supports for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Researchers interviewed state developmental disabilities administrators in 34 of 42 states that currently operate self-directed service options and used qualitative analysis to arrive at a thematic map of the strengths and challenges currently experienced by state administrators. Common strengths identified by state administrators were increased opportunities for participant self-determination and improved relationships with support staff. Common challenges included restructuring case management relationships, as well as rulemaking and enforcement. Administrators’ suggestions for the future of self-direction focused on increasing program size and streamlining services using technology.