I am the EOR for my elderly mother in rural Southwest VA. Fortunate for her, she has been able to receive Medicaid Waiver services for some time now for chronic health conditions. At the time of enrollment, we made multiple calls attempting to find a Consumer Directed Service Facilitator that would service our remote area. After many disappointing calls trying to get services started, we finally landed on a Service Facilitator that would accept my mothers case.

The Facilitator was prompt on the initial visit, was able to clearly explain all the moving parts of the Consumer Directed program, helped us decide the family's best fit for EOR, paid and unpaid caregivers and backup plans required by the program. After the family made the decision on how to procede, the SF assisted in completing all of the required documents and even notarized background check forms for us to keep us from having leave and get that done elsewhere. When leaving the home that day, the SF remarked that they would stay in constant contact with me until everything was processed and caregivers were able to get their first paycheck...and they did that very thing...made a promise and followed thru with getting our services up and running. I applaud them for that.

When I heard of the news that we were possibly going to lose our Service Facilitator that we have had for so many years that knows my moms meds, doctors, diagnosis, her can do's and can not's and will advocate for every service authorization requested, I was disheartened...and so was my mother. The SF had become more than a provider of services, but a family friend that could help navigate this complicated program we are glad to have. My mother commented that she will now have to rely on someone from Richmond taking care of her case, that probably can't find our home in Southwest. I too feel that a suit from Richmond will come here and tell us what is best for us, instead of asking what can make your life a little bit better.

This is just my story, and I dont want to mention the SF that STILL has our case, because I dont want the public to think I am advocating for this one SF...but truely I am.