I have had the opportunity to watch the local media blitz that is occurring focusing on the words choice and parading a legally represented individual around the grounds of Vanguard Landing where the words "Medicaid Waiver" and "choice" are used repeatedly. 

I wish to be clear - Vanguard is a choice and a wonderful one for people that can afford it. 

It is not however, a Medicaid Waiver choice.  It has 24 cottages on ONE property and thus far the only non-disabled people who will be living there are family members of the individuals paying to reside there. 

This is an institution, a very very valuable institution.  It costs one person upwards of $22,000 per month to reside there.  Because of those costs, it is limited to families who can afford that.  Even with Medicaid dollars, this agency has not provided an affordable option for all.  With proposed Medicaid funding, families are reducing their out of pocket costs to anywhere from $1000 to $5000 a month.  That remains far out of reach for the individuals who receive DD Waiver and DD Waiver funds. 

True choice reflects the ability for ALL to participate.  While Vanguard Landing has news stories focusing on choice, they do not provide accountability for the fact that this is a choice for the few, not for all.  

That alone, does not reflect the spirit of DD Waiver and Medicaid dollars 

Added to that fact is that this is an ever growing campus with nearly all potential services on the grounds.  Even in planned communities, there is not day programs, employment programs and now a GYM.  This prevents people with disabilities for engaging in the community, not promotes it.  That is clear segregation of a community who is NOT asking for it. 

This service becomes more dangerous by the minute and is a threat to the community of individuals who seek acceptance and community involvement, not further segregation from it.  This is not an appropriate setting for DD Waiver/HCBS compliance.  It is a lovely private pay option and should remain that way.