NCI-AD™ 2024–2025 National Report Released

The National Core Indicators – Aging and Disabilities (NCI-AD™) 2024–2025 National Report has been released. For the last ten years, NCI-AD has partnered with states to gather data on the experiences of people using long-term services and supports across the US.

Pennsylvania does not currently participate in the data gathering for this report. However, the same key areas are included in the CAHPS survey, which will be reviewed by the CHC-MCOs at the PD&A meeting on 5/14/2026. Several of the opportunities for improvement will also be evident in the presentations.

The 2024–25 NCI-AD survey included more than 20,000 individuals across 24 states receiving services through HCBS waivers, nursing facilities, PACE, and Older Americans Act programs. Overall, the findings reflect strong access to community supports and healthcare, while also highlighting ongoing workforce and service gaps.

Approximately 68% of respondents said they participate in preferred activities as much as they want, 92% reported reliable transportation to medical appointments, and 73% said they consistently have transportation for community activities. Nearly all respondents (95%) reported being able to connect with friends and family when desired, although 17% still reported frequent loneliness. Access to healthy food, mental health services, and annual wellness visits remained high at roughly 87%–89%, yet only 14% described their overall health as excellent or very good.

The survey also underscored the growing reliance on family caregivers within LTSS. About 40% of respondents identified a paid family member or friend as their primary support person, while 22% reported frequent staff turnover. Although 89% said services help them live the life they want, only 72% felt their services fully met their goals and needs. Among individuals reporting unmet needs, just 55% said their case manager discussed additional service options with them.

Since 2016, states have used NCI-AD data to evaluate aging and disability systems, identify quality improvement opportunities, and support policy discussions related to Medicaid and long-term services and supports.

To access the report, use this link: Reports | NCI-AD (National Core Indicators-Aging and Disabilities). If you have any questions, please contact Fady Sahhar.

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ODP Updates the MAAC on Paid Relative Caregiving & Travel Limitations

By Tim Sohosky • May 29, 2026

On Thursday, May 28, the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) provided an update to the Medical Assistance Advisory Committee (MAAC) regarding current policies and upcoming regulatory changes following a recent Commonwealth Court decision. On February 17, 2026, the PA Commonwealth Court issued a decision in Dunkelberger v. Department of Human Services that determined that ODP’s limitations on provider model services (specifically the 40/60-hour caps and 90-day travel maximums) were null and void. The decision was based on process rather than policy validity; the Court found that these limitations were not properly promulgated as regulations in accordance with the Commonwealth Documents Law and Regulatory Review Act. To maintain a balanced approach between flexibility and oversight, ODP is moving forward with the following actions: Regulatory Amendments: ODP will amend regulations to establish formal authority for setting service delivery limits that support individual welfare and program integrity. Self-Directed Model Agreements: ODP has already modified agreements for self-directed models to clarify limits on overtime, combined relative service provision, and travel restrictions. Travel Restrictions: Due to the inability to monitor services effectively over long distances, service provision will now be limited to Pennsylvania and contiguous states. Waiver Changes: ODP will seek modifications through the amendment process to the Consolidated, P/FDS, Community Living, and Adult Autism Waivers to include: New requirements for agencies providing IHCS and Companion services to disclose a DSP's relationship to participants; and Strengthened programmatic oversight and integrity measures. Life Sharing Alternative: For participants requiring more than 60 hours of paid care from a relative, the Life Sharing (24/7) service model remains the recommended alternative. ODP anticipates a public comment period for these proposed waiver changes beginning in January 2027.

Two men with intellectual disabilities working happily on a tablet.

Shapiro Administration's Strategic Investments in ID/A Community Lead to Highest Number of Pennsylvanians Ever Served in HCBS

By Tim Sohosky • May 28, 2026

Press Release from DHS : Published May 27, 2026

ODP Provides Updates to PBC 2026/27 Residential Pay-for-Performance

By Cathy Barrick • May 28, 2026

The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has shared ODPANN 26-039 . The purpose of this communication is to provide updated details about the Residential Performance-Based Contracting (PBC) Pay-for-Performance (P4P) initiatives for Fiscal Year 2026/27. Updates are provided in red . Please review the announcement for more details. Visit here to access the Pay for Performance (P4P): Residential Rural Capacity Expansion Plan template .