My name is Lisa Bell and I am a case manager with Brain Injury Connections of the Shenandoah Valley (BICSV).  I am writing to object to the suggested changes to the Provider Requirements of the Brain Injury Services Targeted Brain Injury Supplement.

As a case manager, I have specialized training and I work diligently with clients who have survived a brain injury.  BICSV offers that one-on-one specialized service that survivors need and that is one of the many reasons why BICSV is a benefit to the community.  I have seen their impact every time a client reaches another goal and the positivity that comes from being available almost immediately to offer service and support.

I object to the idea of expanding Provider Requirements that would include agencies licensed by the Department of Behavior Health and Developmental Services.  It would appear those agencies are and have been overwhelmed with the waitlist for services that they already provide.  By expanding Provider Requirements, the already existing waitlist would multiply creating unnecessary gaps.

Brain Injury Connections is a highly regarded and well respected organization with twenty years of experience providing care to the community.  With an existing knowledge base and community network already established, BICSV also certainly objects to these proposed changes.